My name is Jill Borchers, and I am working towards my degree in the DESJ (Diversity, Equity, Social Justice) program.  I come from a tough upbringing that was plagued with a lot of negativity, abuse,  discrimination, and hate speech. From a very young age, despite not being told or taught otherwise, I somehow knew that way of thinking was wrong and harmful. Over the years, I have never felt fully settled in my professional life, as I have always felt like there was a bigger calling for me professionally that spoke to my core values.  Working in healthcare for the Department of Corrections for the past 10 years, where I have been a part of some of the greatest work for the voiceless, has inspired me to work harder for the greater good of society. Deciding to work towards this degree, I believe, is the greatest decision I could have made for my future. The DESJ program fits perfectly within the bounds of corrections. I work with extreme passion, care, and kindness to provide medical care to people who have committed some of the worst acts that a human is capable of. And I have always led with the mindset that I am not their judge, and I am not their jury. That process has been completed, and it wouldn't benefit me or anyone else if I treated a single offender based on what I know about their past. Many people were born into very oppressive systems in society, and sometimes it can take a few poor choices to trap them in a vicious cycle of a life filled with little hope. I do believe that some people, given the right opportunities, can turn their lives around and be productive members of society. 

I believe there are endless possibilities for what can be done with this degree, and despite the current political climate and changes, I feel that it is more important than ever to be in the trenches. fighting the good fight. And to look back knowing I was on the right side of history.