March 14, 2025
Twenty-four Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC/CUNY) Criminal Justice (CRJ) students attended the Eastern Sociological Society (ESS) annual conference in Boston from March 4 to March 9. CRJ Professor Brenda Vollman, who coordinated the trip and CRJ Professor Shenique Davis accompanied the students to the event.
Founded in 1930, ESS advances sociological research, promotes the effective teaching of sociology, develops more vital relationships between sociology and related disciplines, and uses the tools of the social sciences to address social problems.
This year’s conference featured numerous presentations, sessions and exhibitions exploring topics related to the theme, “Building Solidarity to Break Cycles of Repression.”
Each day of the conference, the BMCC students attended at least four sessions, then participated in check-ins and mandatory evening dinners where they spent time debriefing and community building.
Professor Davis, who along with BMCC Social Sciences Professor Paoyi Huang are co-chairs of the ESS Committee on Community Colleges, said seeing the students interact and engage, both academically and socially, was inspiring.
“The conference sparked meaningful connections and real friendships, which at times can be difficult to foster at BMCC,” said Professor Davis. “Seeing the students build that camaraderie through this shared experience was powerful.”
When CSS President Derek Hyra, an author and Professor of Public Administration and Policy at American University delivered his address, ‘Slow and Sudden Violence: Breaking the Cycle of Racial and Spatial Repression,’ it resonated deeply with the students according to Professor Davis.
“They gained important insights into the often-overlooked realities of displacement, gentrification, and policing practices that affect many of our daily lives,” said Professor Davis. “These perspectives are not just academically enriching they are also foundational for the students’ growth as informed professionals and engaged citizens.”
Professor Vollman agreed, saying this year’s conference was impactful on many levels.
“It was an honor to be able to coordinate and manage this tremendous opportunity for our students and accompany them on this journey,” said Professor Vollman. “Not only did the students have the chance to explore new criminological and sociological topics, I witnessed them engaging in relationship building, problem-solving and personal growth that is only accessible through overnight experiential opportunities like this trip to the Eastern Sociological Society annual conference.”
Students Inspired by Conference Sessions
Students who attended the conference said the experience left a lasting impact.
“Before attending the conference, my primary goal was to pursue a career in law,” said Brianna Cedano. “However, after several days of engaging with authors and scholars, I realized that my true passion lies in research.”
Cedano said BMCC has provided her with an excellent environment to explore and develop more interest in social research.
“I truly feel like a part of the community and know that I have the support I need to continue growing and reaching my goals,” said Cedano.
From the engaging sessions to the thought-provoking discussions, every moment at the conference was inspiring, said CRJ major Gloria Jean.
“The connections I made and the ideas I gained will stay with me throughout my career and educational journey,” said Jean. “I look forward to carrying them forward with my work.”
Jean says she was especially inspired by CSS President Derek Hyra’s presidential address adding that she currently reading his book “Slow and Sudden Violence.”
“He definitely gives his readers something to think about,” said Jean.
CRJ major Stephanie Fountain said her big takeaway from the conference is that there are scholars hard at work around the world who are working to solve economic issues.
“After BMCC, I would like to further study how race has disproportionately impacted individuals in the prison system,” said Fountain who plans to become a criminal defense attorney. “Attending the conference allowed me to see that there are people on the ground fighting for change. I have been inspired to be not just a scholar, but a scholar who works to make an impact.”
Students who attended the conference include: Luis Aragon, Shahad Afzal, Kadiatou Balde, Andrea Bustillo, Lipsy Castillo, Brianna Cedano, Fabiya Afrin Easha, Martiela Filand, Stephanie Fountain, Shayonna Grier, Dominique Harris, Gloria Jean, Diana Khyliuk, Anny Lugo, Samantha McNewil, Stephanine Morales, Marali Ocotl, Justin Rivera, Aidan Rodriguez, Diana Romero, Annette Sanchez, Octavia Smith, Angelica Velasquez Lopez, Jacqueline Villa-Veliz.
This conference trip was funded by the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V). CRJ Professor Michelle Ronda, Finance Budget Coordinator Jim Law and Director of Evening/Weekend and Off-Site programs Antonette McKain also provided necessary support.
- Students gained important insights into often overlooked realities of displacement, gentrification and policing.
- Twenty-four students, accompanied by faculty, attended conference in Boston
