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Project Rebound

Transforming lives through higher education

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Enrollment Management and Student Affairs

We are proud to provide a safe, welcoming space where students can build community with others who understand their journey.

About Project Rebound

Education plays a crucial role in reducing recidivism rates — meaning it lowers the chance of an individual becoming a repeat offender or returning to prison. This education can come in many forms, from vocational training to degree programs. 

Project Rebound creates a pathway from incarceration to college graduation. Established in 1967 at San Francisco State University, the program is now available at 20 CSU campuses, including Cal State Monterey Bay.   

Our program connects students with critical resources, including advising, financial assistance, tutoring, housing support and mental health services. 

How to Become a Project Rebound Scholar

To be eligible for Project Rebound, you must: 

  • Be formerly incarcerated (can be on or off parole/probation)
  • Be living or paroling to Monterey, San Benito, or Santa Cruz Counties
  • Possess the ability and commitment to perform college-level work
  • Be motivated to succeed and benefit from a college education
  • Maintain satisfactory progress and complete ideally 12 but at a minimum 6 units each semester
  • Submit an admission application to Cal State Monterey Bay (CalApply)
  • Submit a financial aid application (FAFSA)

Applicants must also meet the standard admissions criteria for Cal State Monterey Bay. Learn now to apply to CSUMB.

Services, Support and Expectations

These are just a few programs, resources and services available to Project Rebound participants. Here, we also outline program expectations.

We help students with all aspects of their academic journey, including: 

  • Academic skill-building and college success strategies
  • Time management, organization and goal-setting tools
  • Referrals for accessibility services and accommodations
  • Graduate school preparation and support
  • Tutoring and academic support services
  • Workshops, events and guest speakers

We also provide individualized guidance and mentorships, based on each student’s needs and goals, including:

  • Advocacy for students navigating parole or probation challenges
  • One-on-one mentorship and personalized guidance
  • Support in balancing academic, work and personal responsibilities
  • Record clearance support and navigation
  • Referrals to mental health and counseling services
  • Service learning placement coordination
  • Financial literacy and empowerment sessions
  • Resources for healing, self-growth and personal development
  • Opportunities for leadership, civic engagement and community building
  • Workshops, events and guest speakers

Project Rebound students in good standing may also receive assistance with expenses and earning opportunities, including: 

  • Parking permits
  • Bookstore credits 
  • Food vouchers
  • Student employment opportunities
  • Graduation fees 
  • Help finding internships, paid campus roles and work-study opportunities
  • Emergency funding for urgent or unexpected needs

Project Rebound Scholars are expected to: 

  • Attend at least one Project Rebound event or workshop each semester
  • Attend at least one Project Rebound Community Building Event (for instance, beach bonfire)
  • Volunteer or participate in a community service activity at least once per semester
  • Meet with the Program Coordinator for a one-on-one check-in each semester
  • Maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA and make consistent academic progress
  • Contribute positively to the Project Rebound community by showing respect, support and engagement

Schedule an Appointment

Whether you’re interested in joining Project Rebound or a current scholar, we’re here to help. Schedule a time to meet with us in person, by phone or over Zoom, using these calendar links.

Meet with Mandee Murphy, Program Coordinator Meet with Valerie Maestas, Program Director

Meet the Team

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Valarie Maestas, Program Director

Leaving home and dropping out of high school at 14, Valarie experienced numerous childhood traumas, police encounters and threats of juvenile detention. She was fortunate enough to make it out of the circumstances she was born into and found her way through higher education. Her journey drives her passion and commitment to serving those like her, who did not know there was another path.

A picture of Mandee Murphy

Mandee Ann Murphy, Program Coordinator

Mandee’s story reflects resilience and transformation. Her firsthand knowledge of navigating incarceration, probation, child protective services and social services has become an invaluable resource for the students she now serves. She’s deeply committed to supporting them as they pursue higher education and transform their lives, just as she did.