Tristan is a young man creating a bright future for himself. He participates in several Monroe Harding programs and is an exceptional student. This semester he is transferring from Nashville State to Vanderbilt on a full scholarship! Tristan is an active advocate for youth aging out of foster care and his work as a Youth Leader with the Annie E. Casey Foundation broadened his knowledge of programs for young adults across the country.
Through Works Wonders, Tristan explored the impact he could make in a career advocating within the Juvenile Justice system. As part of our program, we created a job shadow experience for him with the Honorable Judge Sheila Calloway of the Juvenile Court of Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County. Judge Calloway and her dedicated staff gave Tristan, in his words, “more than I ever could have hoped for.” Judge Calloway shared her vision and values and how change is possible within the Justice system that can benefit both the youth and the community at large. Tristan and Judge Calloway’s conversation showed Tristan that many of the reform initiatives he heard about in other cities were actually happening right here in Nashville. Judge Calloway also allowed Tristan to observe in the courtroom, where he was able to speak to attorneys and the Juvenile Court Magistrate. At the end of the job shadow, Tristan was even more excited about his next chapter as he begins this semester at Vanderbilt
University and in his advocacy work – and he found a new connection with Vandy alum Judge Calloway! We are so grateful to Judge Calloway for sharing her career path and showing Tristan what the possibilities are for him as he pursues his career goals.
If you or your company are interested in volunteering to provide a young, career-minded adult an informational interview, job shadow, or internships as part of our Works Wonders program, you can sign up here and find out more.