Project Rebound
Contact Information
Emma Hughes, Ph.D.
Reseach and Advising for Project Rebound
Professor, Department of Criminology
Office: SS 102C
Phone: 559-278-2370
Email: emhughes@csufresno.edu
Dr. Hughes stands as the esteemed founder of Project Rebound at Fresno State, an innovative support program designed specifically for students who have been formerly incarcerated. Under Dr. Hughes's visionary leadership, Project Rebound aims to facilitate a seamless and supportive transition for these individuals into academic life. She is also currently leading the coordination between CDCR and Fresno State, supporting two Bachelor Degree programs at Central Valley prisons. One program is being run at Valley State Prison and one is at Central California Women's Facility. If you are interested in doing research or have questions about the Bachelor Degree programs Degrees of Change, please contact Dr. Hughes.
Jennifer Leahy, M.S.
Executive Director for Project Rebound
Lecturer, Department of Criminology
Office: SS 102C
Phone: 559-278-2316 or 559-760-7137
Email: jleahy@csufresno.edu
Jennifer Leahy holds the distinguished position of oversight for the program's mission and growth. She is the primary contact for on campus partners, community based organizations, and governmental agencies interested in partnership. Her responsibilities include oversight of staff on campus as well as relationship building with partners. The goals is to ensure student success while supporting university operations. Ms. Leahy's commitment to the student's success is a cornerstone of the program's efficacy and impact. For any staff or instructors seeking to learn more about the program's initiatives, or to discuss potential collaborations and contributions, Jennifer Leahy is the primary contact. Her expertise and dedication are pivotal to the program's ongoing success and its mission to empower and rehabilitate through education.
Jason Abhyankar M.Ed.
Program Director for Project Rebound
Office: SS 102B
Phone: 559-999-9049
Email: jasonab@mail.fresnostate.edu
Jason Abyankar serves primarily as direct oversight of day to day operations of the program. He meticulously oversees the office and campus housing operations. He works directly with students and staff of Project Rebound to ensure the needs of the student are met in alignment with the mission of the program. He holds a crucial role in overseeing all student housing related concerns. His expertise and dedication are instrumental in the development and implementation of strategies that ensure secure and supportive living environments for students. In addition to his professional responsibilities, Mr. Abhyankar recently completed a second Master's degree, a testament to his commitment to continuous learning and enhancing his ability to contribute effectively to the organization's mission.
Vacant
Student Support Specialist for Project Rebound
Office: SS 112
Phone: 559-278-2313
Email:
As a holistic case management position, this person provides wraparound support to justice-impacted students, connecting them with campus and community resources that promote academic success, wellness, and basic needs security. The role also supports currently incarcerated students interested in Project Rebound through correspondence and guidance on university processes. A commitment to equity, social justice, and student development is central to this position.
This role serves as direct case management and is the first point of contact for student inquiries regarding the program.
Venancio Barela, B.S.
Administrative Assistant for Project Rebound
Office: SS 112
Phone: 559-278-2313
Email: venanciob@mail.fresnostate.edu
Vince is a Project Rebound graduate and native from the Oklahoma Muscogee Creek Nation. He recently graduated with his Bachelor degree in Business Administration, Computer Information Systems Option from Fresno State. He supports the team through assisting with organization of record keeping, event planning and student data collection processes. Inquiries related to purchasing, donations or other monitary questions should be directed to Vince.
Contact us:
Email: projectrebound@mail.fresnostate.edu
Message phone: 559.278.2313 On campus location: Social Science Room 112 Mailing Address: Project Rebound Fresno State 5340 N. Campus Dr., M/S SS91 Fresno, CA 93740