Giza Lopes, Ph.D., NYS Youth Justice Institute Executive Director

Stanley Richards, New York City Department of Correction Commissioner

In this episode, Commissioner Stanley Richards, the first formerly incarcerated leader of New York City's correctional system, shares a heartfelt journey from hardship to hope, revealing how intentional design, compassion, and community partnerships are reshaping the future of corrections.

Fred Akshar, Broome County Sheriff

From law enforcement to public policy, Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar has spent his career on the front lines of public safety. In this episode, your host DCJS Commissioner Rossana Rosado, and Sheriff Akshar discuss how his journey has helped shape the way he leads. From integrating community engagement, to implementing data-driven decisions and innovative programs in the Broome County Jail, Sheriff Akshar brings a unique perspective on what it takes to build safer, stronger communities.

Julina Guo, DCJS Counsel & Director of Human Trafficking Prevention

Commissioner Rossana Rosado welcomes our Director of Human Trafficking Prevention and counsel, Julina Guo. In this episode, Commissioner Rosado and Julina discuss the critical issue of human trafficking, its connection to missing persons, and the systemic vulnerabilities faced by BIPOC women and girls. Julina also shares her background as an immigrant and her motivation to advocate for vulnerable populations. They explore the dynamics of trafficking, the importance of community awareness, and the resources available for reporting and supporting victims.

Karol V. Mason, John Jay College of Criminal Justice President

With crime rates at historic lows, now is the time to have conversations about the importance of community-driven, holistic approaches to public safety. In this episode, DCJS Commissioner Rossana Rosado and John Jay College of Criminal Justice President Karol V. Mason discuss the future of public safety and policing, and one of Commissioner Rosado’s favorite topics – John Jay College of Criminal Justice.

Giza Lopes, Ph.D., NYS Youth Justice Institute Executive Director

Young people across New York State and the nation are facing significant challenges, creating an opportunity to rethink how systems can better support their success. In our premiere episode, DCJS Commissioner Rossana Rosado and NYS Youth Justice Institute Executive Director Dr. Giza Lopes dive into this critical turning point and discuss how we can shift the conversation around what young people need to thrive.  Defining the Path Forward - 2025 Youth Justice Summit: https://youthjusticeinstitute.org/2025-youth-justice-summit/ [https://youthjusticeinstitute.org/2025-youth-justice-summit/]