What happens after the sentence is served? For millions of “returning citizens,” the real punishment begins during the job hunt. In his new biography, Dr. Richard Morris tackles the systemic barriers head-on, blending his personal journey with his groundbreaking doctoral research on “Ban-the-Box” legislation.

Beyond the Criminal Record

Dr. Morris’s transition from a federal inmate to a Manager in a District Government agency wasn’t just luck; it was a result of policy programs like Project Empowerment and a relentless pursuit of education. His dissertation didn’t just earn him a title; it provided a blueprint for how society can better integrate those with a criminal history into the workforce.;

“Most employers are not allowed to ask about criminal history as a basis of employment. Keep filling those applications out. If you need assistance, ask.”

What You’ll Learn in “From PRISON to PhD”:

• The Power of Persistence: How to navigate re-entry resources even when they aren’t publicly advertised.
• Systemic Knowledge: Understanding your rights in “Ban-the-Box” states.
• The Importance of Mentorship: Why asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.