This February 18, the Boricua College campus at 9 Graham Avenue celebrated its collaboration with community partners toward the advancement of student success, reentry support, and holistic services for justice-involved students. The celebration was called the DOJ Project Abrazar Student and Partner Recognition Ceremony.
Those honored at this event were: Dr. Gisele Castro, CEO of Exalt Youth; Michael Rochford, executive director of St. Nicks Alliance; Sandra Sneed, CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals/ Woodhull Hospital; Wendell Ramsey, president of The Leadership Program; and Alberto Valentin, executive director of the Graham Avenue BID.
U.S. Representative Nydia Velázquez joined college leadership in recognizing the achievements of Project Abrazar students and the partners whose commitment has been central to the initiative’s success. She is responsible for securing the funding for this special initiative.
In December 2024, Boricua College, in partnership with Exalt Youth, announced the launch of Project Abrazar: Crime Prevention and Recidivism Reduction through Supportive Services and Opportunities. This groundbreaking initiative was created to provide comprehensive support and tailored resources to meet the unique needs of formerly incarcerated individuals, justice-impacted individuals, and their families throughout New York City. Boricua College’s Project Abrazar, via partner collaborations, provides a holistic suite of services. This includes: educational and social support, work opportunities, mental health counseling, and navigational assistance for legal requirements. Key services include GED services, vocational training, mentoring, financial literacy, health and wellness services, and job training and placement.
“Project Abrazar shows what is possible when higher education and community partners work together to support student success, reentry, and opportunity,” stated Dr. Victor Alicea, president of Boricua College.
The Greenline 