From Silos to Systems Change: Aligning Education, Youth Justice, and Community Safety

Panel of speakers, with Michael Umpierre holding a microphone — (Left to right): Phillip Copeland, Michael Umpierre, Nate Balis, Penelope Spain, and Dr. Tiffany Simmons

We were honored to be part of a dynamic conversation at the 2026 From Silos to Solutions Conference! This year’s “Power Through Partnerships” convening brought together educators, youth-serving organizations, policymakers, advocates, and community leaders who are working to improve outcomes for justice-involved youth and young adults.

Our own CYJ Director, Michael Umpierre, spoke on Thursday’s first panel “From Silos to Systems Change: Aligning Education, Youth Justice, and Community Safety.” He was joined by the all-star panel of Nate Balis, Phillip Copeland, Penelope Spain, Dr. Tiffany Simmons, and moderator David Domenici. The panel explored how different systems that serve young people can move from operating independently to working in coordinated, prevention-focused partnership.

A big thanks to the See Forever Foundation for hosting such an engaging and productive convening!

Speakers in front of a screen and brick background include Phillip Copeland, Michael Umpierre, Nate Balis, Penelope Spain, and Dr. Tiffany Simmons — (Left to right): Phillip Copeland, Michael Umpierre, Nate Balis, Penelope Spain, and Dr. Tiffany Simmons