Systemic Change: Leading the Future for our Youth

Sunday, May 3, 2026 – Monday, May 4, 2026

Register

Center for Youth and the Future of Work and exalt logos

Oxford

 

 

This initiative, led by the Center for Youth and the Future of Work in partnership with exalt, will bring together leaders, practitioners, and researchers to explore systemic change and chart a bold, transformative vision for the future of our justice-involved youth. The symposium will feature curated sessions designed to foster dialogue and collaboration on topics such as reducing recidivism, expanding educational opportunities, supporting reentry into society, and promoting restorative justice practices. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with distinguished thought leaders and changemakers, including:

  • Dr. Lisette NievesPresident of Fund for the City of New York, Co-Founder of the Center for Youth and the Future of Work.
  • Dr. Noel AndersonCo-founder of the Center for Youth and the Future of Work, Clinical Professor, NYU Steinhardt.
  • Dr. Gisele Castro, Chief Executive Officer of exalt, advocating for alternatives to incarceration and workforce development opportunities for young people.

 

 

 

Program Agenda

Justice-involved Youth Symposium Sunday, May 3, 2026 – Monday, May 4, 2026 Advancing Youth Justice, Education and Workforce Opportunities Sunday, May 3, 2026: Welcome Dinner • 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Arrival & Registration • 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Cocktail Hour • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Dinner Monday, May 4, 2024: Conference Day • 8:00am – 9:15am: Light Breakfast • 9:15am-10:00am: Welcome Remarks and Opening • 10:00am – 11:15am: Panel 1: Restoring Futures: K-12 Education and the Justice System • 11:30am – 12:45pm: Lunch • 1:00pm – 2:15pm: Panel 2: Models for Educational and Economic Mobility for Justiceinvolved Youth • 2:30pm – 3:30pm: Panel 3: Ecosystem Partners • 3:40pm – 4:40pm: Panel 4: Future of Work • 6:00pm – 8:30pm: Closing Reception and Dinner *Optional and not part of the official programming. We would also like to invite attendees to join on May 2nd for an optional Oxford University Walking Tour from 2:00PM-4:00PM & Dinner at 6:00PM-8:00PM

Download Agenda

Essential Packing List

As you prepare for an enriching journey to the Executive Leadership Summit at Rhodes House, Oxford, here are a few essentials to ensure you’re well-equipped for the English weather and the activities planned:

  • Umbrella and/or Rain Coat
  • Water-resistant Boots
  • Comfortable Walking Shoes
  • Dress code is business casual.

Must-Have Apps

To make your travel and stay as smooth as possible, we recommend downloading the following apps:

 

Travel & Accommodations

Recommended Accomodations

Britway Airport Transfers

  • Website: Britway Airport Transfers
  • Book in advance for a seamless experience.
  • The driver will coordinate with you via WhatsApp for pickup.
  • Travel time is approximately an hour, with costs ranging from £100 to £150.

 

Train

  • Use the GWR App or South Western Railway App for train travel:
    • Heathrow Express to Paddington Station, then the Great Western Railway to Oxford Station.
    • The journey takes about 2 hours, with Rhodes House just a 19-minute walk or a 7-minute drive from Oxford Station.
    • Costs range from £30 to £75.

 

Oxford Bus Company – The Airline Bus

  • Leaves from Heathrow Terminal 5, stand 10. Get off at Gloucester Green, a 12-minute walk from Rhodes House.
  • The bus journey lasts about 1.5 hours.
  • Tickets cost £25 from Heathrow.
  • The Airline Oxford Website | Email

Upon Your Arrival

Address: South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RG, England

Upon reaching Rhodes House, look for the iconic door and signage, easily identifiable by its proximity to notable landmarks such as the non-organic chemistry building and just around the corner from the Natural History Museum. For any immediate assistance or queries upon arrival, please contact Nathalie Garcia at +1 (978) 237-8753 or Janelle Viruet at +1 (917) 805-2336.

We’re excited to welcome you to this pivotal gathering of leaders, where you’ll gain invaluable insights, forge new connections, and discover fresh perspectives amidst the historical grandeur of Oxford.

Recommended Attractions

Bodleian Library

Ashmolean Museum

Pitt Rivers Museum

Oxford University Outdoor Walking Tour

The Turf Tavern

Oxford Botanic Garden

Blenheim Palace - Woodstock

30 min drive