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Presentation Attendance Instructions
Presentation Attendance Instructions
Presentations are first come, first serve. Each Presentation room has a maximum capacity of participants, once that maximum is reached, students/teachers will be asked to join another Presentation.
We advise attendees to review the Presentations & their times and determine what you would like to attend prior to the conference.
Map of SU and Session Rooms
Presentations
Ashland Police Department
Community, Equity & Partnership in Action
Community, Equity & Partnership in Action
In partnership with BASE, the Ashland Police Department will co-lead a powerful session exploring what it takes to build trust between law enforcement and community members. Through open conversation, students will learn how APD is working alongside the Racial Equity Liaison Team to address bias, strengthen relationships, and rethink public safety in Southern Oregon. Two sessions will be offered, each with unique opportunities to engage.
BASE
Racial Equity Liaison Team
Community, Equity & Partnership in Action
Community, Equity & Partnership in Action
In partnership with the Ashland Police Department, BASE’s Racial Equity Liaison Team will co-lead a student-centered session focused on community safety, trust-building, and advancing racial equity. Students will hear how BASE works collaboratively with APD to foster accountability and cultural understanding in local law enforcement. Two sessions will be offered—each one designed to spark honest dialogue and connection.
In partnership with the Ashland Police Department, BASE’s Racial Equity Liaison Team will co-lead a student-centered session focused on community safety, trust-building, and advancing racial equity. Students will hear how BASE works collaboratively with APD to foster accountability and cultural understanding in local law enforcement. Two sessions will be offered—each one designed to spark honest dialogue and connection.
Judge Ben Bloom
Jackson County Circuit Courts
A View from the Bench: The Importance of the Judicial Branch
A View from the Bench: The Importance of the Judicial Branch
What role does the judicial branch really play in a functioning democracy? In this session, Judge Benjamin Bloom, Presiding Judge of Jackson County, offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the courts work—and why a strong, independent judiciary matters. Students will explore how judges make decisions, the role of fairness in the legal system, and what judicial leadership looks like in a local context.
What role does the judicial branch really play in a functioning democracy? In this session, Judge Benjamin Bloom, Presiding Judge of Jackson County, offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the courts work—and why a strong, independent judiciary matters. Students will explore how judges make decisions, the role of fairness in the legal system, and what judicial leadership looks like in a local context.
Judge Robert Johnson
Douglas County Circuit Courts
Big Decisions, Real Pressure: What It’s Like to Be the Judge
Big Decisions, Real Pressure: What It’s Like to Be the Judge
Step inside the mind of a judge. In this powerful session, Judge Johnson offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to make high-stakes decisions that impact people’s lives. Through personal stories and real-world insight, students will explore the weight of judicial responsibility—and even get the chance to step into the role themselves.
This session blends storytelling, critical thinking, and civic insight to bring the courtroom to life in a way no textbook can. Come ready to think deeply, ask bold questions, and see the law from the bench.
Jefferson Public Radio
Maria Carter
Trust Issues: Why Journalism Matters More than Ever
What does it mean for the press to be “free”—and why does that matter? In this session, JPR journalists will explore the essential role journalism plays in sustaining a healthy democracy. Students will learn how trustworthy reporting is produced, how to spot the difference between fact, opinion, and propaganda, and how disinformation spreads in today’s digital world.
Federal Public Defenders Office
Federal Public Defenders – Defending the Accused
Federal Public Defenders – Defending the Accused
What does it take to stand up for someone's rights in federal court? This session offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Federal Public Defender’s Office and how attorneys, investigators, paralegals, and legal assistants work together to defend individuals charged with federal crimes. Students will learn what motivates this team to do the work they do—and hear about the career paths that brought them to the world of public defense.
What does it take to stand up for someone's rights in federal court? This session offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Federal Public Defender’s Office and how attorneys, investigators, paralegals, and legal assistants work together to defend individuals charged with federal crimes. Students will learn what motivates this team to do the work they do—and hear about the career paths that brought them to the world of public defense.
Dr. Jessica Peterson
Southern Oregon University
What Can A Degree Get Me? Academic Routes to Careers in the Criminal Justice Field
Thinking about college or a career in law, research, or criminal justice? As a first-generation college student, Dr. Peterson knows how overwhelming it can feel. She’ll share her journey, offer advice, and give real-world tips for making college — and beyond — a reality.
Workshops
Braver Angels
Craig Lincoln and Steve Radcliffe
Bridging the Divide: A Two-Part Civil Discourse Workshop
What if you could talk to someone who totally disagrees with you—and actually feel heard? In this two-part, hands-on workshop, facilitators Craig Lincoln and Steve Radcliffe will guide students through real conversations across political, social, and personal divides. You’ll build practical tools for listening, speaking up, and staying grounded—even in tough discussions. Get ready to step out of your comfort zone, challenge your thinking, and walk away with skills you can use in school, work, and life.
Note: Students must attend both sessions to participate.
Note: Students must attend both sessions to participate.
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