03/06/2025
03/03/2025
(MODESTO, CA) -The Rising Scholars Network (RSN), at Modesto Junior College, has been serving justice-impacted students since 2017. Established by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, the RSN program focuses on preparing formerly incarcerated students for community reentry. One goal set by the Chancellor’s office is to increase computer literacy and provide proactive support for students with technology needs and gaps.
Rising Scholars Network graduate and MJC Program Specialist, David Lujan supports and affirms RSN students by sharing his story and experience of the “digital gap.” After only being present at the scene of a serious crime committed by an older brother, David Lujan’s childhood was cut short as he was faced with a life sentence in prison. During his time, David aspired for post-secondary education, but after his release in 2016, that dream felt like an impossibility. “For 35 years I had never seen a computer.” David’s first attempt at MJC enrollment was marked with shame, and David quit before he even started.
But following a second attempt at MJC, David was introduced to the Rising Scholars Network, a program designed specifically for system impacted students, and he began to flourish. At the RSN, David was provided with the footing to traverse a new digital landscape and was able to graduate from MJC and transfer to UC Merced earning his Bachelors in Sociology.
The Chancelor’s Office reports that within two years of first implementing the program statewide the degrees awarded to Rising Scholars almost doubled in two years.
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About Modesto Junior College
Modesto Junior College has served Modesto and surrounding areas since 1921. Its mission is to empower students to discover opportunities and reach their goals through access to and inclusion in higher education. As investors in society, Modesto Junior College will create and promote equity for every member of its diverse community.