Second Chance Pell

Over two inspiring days, the 2026 AiC Convening brought together artists, researchers, funders, and advocates to strengthen arts programming across California.

SDSU celebrated the second VISTA Commencement at Centinela State Prison, honoring 29 graduates who earned their bachelor’s degrees in Journalism while incarcerated. Among them, 19 graduates earned academic honors, including four Summa Cum Laude graduates. The ceremony reflected the power of education to transform lives and create new possibilities. We are proud to celebrate these graduates, their resilience and SDSU’s commitment to education and transformation.

Thank you to everyone who attended the "Inside the Comic Panel" opening reception collaboration with the B Awesum and River Park Art Groove Gallery back in March. The reception featured an artist talk by Fresno Regional Lead Martin Townsend, who honored the contributing artists, explored their themes, and highlighted the impact of arts programming in prisons. The comic-book panels on display were created by incarcerated artists at Central California Women’s Facility during a multidisciplinary art class co-led by PAC Peer Facilitators Angela and Sonia. If you missed the opening, you still have a chance to attend the closing reception featuring another artist talk from Martin on May 21, 2026, from 5–8 PM at Art Groove Event Center in Fresno, California.

The event showcased artwork created by PAC participants, reflecting this year’s Chinese zodiac sign: the Fire Horse. Known for symbolizing transformative energy, political shifts, and rapid change, this sign inspired the collection. Our SDSU interns led the tabling event on San Diego State University’s campus. A huge shout-out to our incredible interns for their hard work, and thank you to the San Diego State community for supporting our event.