
Justice must not only be done, but be seen to be done.
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RISE Court
Participants in The RISE Court share their personal testimonies, reflecting resilience and transformation. These stories serve as beacons of hope for others navigating similar paths.
Judge Lohier
Judge Raymond Lohier, Court of Appeals 2nd Circuit of New York, and presiding RISE Court SDNY Judge, shares his experiences.
2023 Graduation Recap
"We are working with each other and for each other".
2025 Graduation Recap
“I didn’t want to die. I want to be here for my kids.”
Narratives
The following was written by Nicole, a 2019 graduate of RISE Court. After enrolling in a two-year program for her associate’s degree in 2019, Nicole obtained a business degree via a fast-track associate’s degree program and later went on to pursue a bachelor’s degree. In January 2025, Nicole received a master of science degree and is the first RISE participant to achieve these educational goals:
The following was written by Nicole, a 2019 graduate of RISE Court. After enrolling in a two-year program for her associate’s degree in 2019, Nicole obtained a business degree via a fast-track associate’s degree program and later went on to pursue a bachelor’s degree. In January 2025, Nicole received a master of science degree and is the first RISE participant to achieve these educational goals:
When asked to share my RISE Court experience, I immediately thought of the Greek word “Metanoia,” which in essence means to change in the heart, to turn toward the light. The definition is a change in one’s way of life, resulting from penitence or spiritual conversion (Oxford).
Leading up to my federal indictment, I can recall some of my darkest days. There seemed to be no light at the end of the tunnel, and I remember pleading with God to rescue me from this darkness. I consider this whole journey, including my federal probation, to be divine intervention. It was my second chance at life, and I intended to use all resources at my disposal to find my path and purpose with much gratitude.
Upon release, and at the start of probation, I found myself grateful but also scared. I had relationships that I wanted to rebuild and amends I wanted to make. I remember hearing the statistics of how many people violate or catch new charges and inevitably return to prison. Although that number was not in my favor, it didn’t scare me. If 9 out of 10 people didn’t make it, I was going to be the one who did.
I set my intentions and created a list of goals. I met with my probation officer, Lauren Blackford, the first week. She asked me questions, and I answered honestly. I knew that my success would be attributed to my integrity. I told her of my struggles, dreams, and desire for change. She was, and still is, a great supporter, mentor, friend, and cheerleader for me. She set me up with many opportunities to make the necessary connections to help rebrand my life.
I was afforded an opportunity to participate in RISE Court, which consists of probation, a federal judge, and lawyers, all who volunteer their time for the program. They care deeply for our success and hold us accountable daily. With their collective support, they help participants transition, overcome obstacles, set long- and-short-term goals, enhance time-management skills, provide a voice for their concerns, and create a community. RISE provided me with a way to see where I was, where I am going, and where I do not want to be.
I was blessed with an introduction to Gibson and Dunn, a law firm that helped me resolve outstanding legal issues. They helped me resolve tickets and get my driver’s license reinstated. I am still in contact with the firm, and they occasionally reach out with words of encouragement and support. I believe the relationships I have formed through RISE have been the greatest benefit, as I now have genuine connections with people who really want to see me succeed.
Probation also helped connect me to the College Initiative Program. They helped me collect all necessary information I needed to apply for financial aid, assisted with college applications, and served as a mentor throughout the whole journey. This not only gave me an education, but the confidence and knowledge to enable me to start my own company.
I am grateful to say that my probation officer recommended early termination of supervised release. I continue to maintain the same standards of a healthy, productive, honest life, as I did while I was on probation. My purpose is to be a light to others, especially those who have recently reentered the community. I want to help others see that they, too, can overcome both the stigmas of society and the ones we put on ourselves.
There is nothing I cannot do. I regained custody of my daughters; have a roof over my head; maintain employment; and have good credit, an education, and the stable support of a loving community. Most important, I have a beautiful connection with God.
I hope my testimony encourages everyone to chase their dreams and see their full potential. These experiences are confirmation of my life’s purpose to face the light, to be the light, and to remind you that you are the light.