Mount Tamalpais College

Campus & Community

Donor Testimonial: Vishal Saluja

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MTC staff had the opportunity to ask donor Vishal Saluja, Managing Partner at Indico Capital, about what motivates his investment in the College. Vishal shared his thoughts about his experience as a math tutor, the impact he was able to have with his investment, and his pragmatic and personal reasons for becoming an MTC donor. 

You’ve invested in Mount Tamalpais College and have encouraged others to invest. What motivates you? 

Everyone I dealt with at Mt. Tam College was very committed, and caring about the mission. You could pick up very clearly that the staff was very heavily invested in the community for the long run. Education is a basic necessity, but it becomes almost a privilege in a prison setting. MTC’s work provides a basic building block that is absolutely necessary for improving the lives of inmates – it builds confidence, improves core skills, and fosters a more positive self-image for inmates.

You spoke of the staff’s fidelity to the mission. How does the mission of the College connect to you personally?

It’s two elements. For me, education is what matters most, as it is what ultimately creates opportunities at all levels of society. I grew up in a culture that emphasized academics. Hence, I view the ability to give through education as a top priority.  The second element relates to helping those that are the most needy–a lot of the students at Mt. Tam College are very socioeconomically disadvantaged. Being able to make that connection between education and the most needy is very powerful for me personally. 

Tell me about your experience as a math tutor for the College. 

Being a tutor was an incredibly rewarding experience–you have to give a lot of yourself, and in return, you really feel like you helped someone. On both those fronts, I found my experience in tutoring over two-quarters something that really felt very good for me. 

Specific to my situation, I had a student who had perennially failed algebra, who had a lot of bluster but very low self-confidence with math, and was on the verge of giving up. I knew I was going to help this person get over this hump. He put in tremendous effort, saw the results come through, and subsequently requested that I tutor him through the next quarter so that he could finally finish his entire mathematics requirement. Helping someone accomplish what was a seemingly insurmountable task for them was deeply gratifying. 

You’ve helped raise money from friends or colleagues. What do you tell people about Mt. Tam College to convince them to invest in this organization? 

My first gift was during COVID. San Quentin inmates were suffering disproportionately from the COVID epidemic, and providing care packages through Mt Tam College was an easy way to help. More recently, I spearheaded Mt. Tam’s effort to fund an onsite computer lab–this was a discrete project that required capital for 70-80 computers and peripherals, with a goal of enabling every student to have a dedicated computer for their academic work. I underwrote the anchor gift, and raised funds from friends and family, getting 10-15 additional people to contribute. Last fall, a group of us donors visited the computer lab and we were thrilled to see a room full of students deeply engaged on new computers working on their assignments. 

Any final thoughts to share?

My charitable work through Mt Tam has allowed me to build a bond with a community that is far removed from my everyday existence. Helping San Quentin inmates, even in the smallest of ways, has been a way to build perspective, humility, and gratitude in my own life.  That is a real gift.

Donor Testimonial: Drew Behnke

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I am not only a donor to MTC but also a volunteer faculty member. Teaching at the college gives me a first-hand perspective as to how necessary the programming is to the population inside San Quentin. MTC students are hungry for knowledge and have largely been denied access to high-quality education. I hold MTC students to the same standards I would have for any student at UC Santa Barbara or any other higher education settings where I have taught. I have come to see that it is not only the access to education that students value, but being treated as intellectual equals. 

MTC has an amazing volunteer community but we would be nothing without the administrators and support staff. For example, there is a learning specialist for students with learning differences. There is a director of education technology working to get students access to laptops. We have program directors helping faculty shape curriculum and develop courses to be successful. These are but a fraction of the amazing support staff that help make MTC what it is, and I know my donation supports these necessary roles. I donate to MTC because I know my donations help make the college successful. I love MTC because everyone deserves equal access to education.

Staff Spotlight: Meet Zaw Htet

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An Interview with Zaw Htet, MTC’s Math & Science Program Director

Zaw Htet, Math & Science Program Director at Mount Tamalpais College, is one of many dedicated teachers who provide innovation and hope where it is not always found. We interviewed  Zaw to gather important insights into the teaching journey, unique challenges, and groundbreaking approaches to prison education.

A Journey of Dedication

With a background in engineering physics and biophysics and a passion for teaching, Zaw initially taught intermediate algebra classes, led a “Frontiers in Science and Technology” workshop, and volunteered in many organizations that provide education opportunities for minorities such as Upward Bound, Refugee Transitions, Be A Scientist, and Bridges to Baccalaureate Programs.

Zaw, who has been working at MTC since November 2022 says, “I love teaching or education in general. I strongly believe that access to affordable quality higher education is fundamental to empowering individuals, reducing inequality, and fostering societal progress.” Zaw’s role at MTC includes teaching math and science, managing and supporting faculty, and developing curricula tailored to the unique environment of a correctional facility.

Overcoming Obstacles

Teaching in prison presents myriad challenges that extend beyond the classroom. The challenges of Zaw’s role are not unique to teaching Math and Science; they are those faced by anyone learning or operating a college in a prison setting. Security concerns, limited resources, and the diverse educational backgrounds of those people incarcerated are just a few of the hurdles Zaw faces daily. 

Another challenge is communicating with students promptly. “I find the logistical barriers imposed by the prison most challenging,” Zaw shared. “ For example, due to the lack of reliable educational technology, instructors are not able to communicate with students in real time. Every communication takes longer and involves more logistics in prison education.”

Transformative Teaching Approaches

Despite these obstacles, Zaw has introduced several innovative approaches that have significantly enhanced the learning experience for students at MTC. Having led a “Frontiers in Science and Technology” workshop, Zaw’s methods emphasize practical application and hands-on learning, which resonate well with the students. “I would like to add exposure to cutting-edge science and technology breakthroughs from world-class scientists and researchers from Berkeley, UCSF, and Stanford,” Zaw stated.  Students were able to observe antimatter particles using the cloud chamber in the workshop.

Zaw asserts that classroom teachings “do not change drastically” when teaching at San Quentin vs. in other education institutions. However, Zaw focuses on creating a supportive and motivating classroom environment. “The most important practice I have used to engage the class effectively,” Zaw said, “is to recognize and treat students as active participants in their learning journey rather than passive recipients of information. I have focused and intentionally incorporated trauma-informed teaching practices.”

Looking Ahead 

Looking ahead, Zaw is optimistic about the future of prison education. Zaw advocates for increased support and resources, emphasizing that education is a crucial component of rehabilitation and reintegration. However, with all those tools, there is one component that must be integrated, and that is trust. “Trust,” Zaw said, “is really important in the classroom and building trust is the key to fostering a respectable learning environment for the students. …having an honest conversation builds trust in the classroom.”

“Creating a dynamic and inclusive learning space where students feel respected and empowered leads to deeper engagement and meaningful learning experiences,” Zaw says. “This varies from classroom to classroom and I am still learning from each class I have taught.”

Donor Testimonial: Susan Hirsch

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I don’t believe in prisons. I do believe in higher education. Every day I teach we have count; that feels like prison. Every day I pass through three checkpoints; that feels like prison. But when I am in the classroom looking at students’ faces, when I read their words, hear their voices, I am renewed in my belief that a gathering place where we can discuss ideas and question our intent is meaningful. Last class, a student said that the classroom is a haven where intellectual thought is honored and prison talk left outside. He called the space sacred. There’s liberation in imagination. There’s freedom in the classroom. As an MTC donor and faculty member, this is what I am supporting.

Alumni Spotlight: Antoine ‘Aziz’ Brown

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One of the many Alumni who attended Mount Tamalpais College, Antoine “Aziz” Brown, is eager to share how the college inspired him to inspire others. 

Aziz arrived at San Quentin in 2010, the same period when Governor Arnold Swartznegger added Rehabilitation to the name of the California Department of Corrections. Aziz was surprised to see that there was an on-grounds college campus at San Quentin, free of charge, and it was not one of the many opportunities that got cut in the budget that year.

While at San Quentin, Aziz completed many college courses and self-help groups before he earned his release on August 17, 2018. After he joined the outside world after 23 years of incarceration, Aziz wanted to continue his juvenile advocacy work, similar to what he did while incarcerated. He joined Re:Store Justice, a Los Angeles-based organization that addresses many issues including the harm caused by criminal justice systems. 

Navigating public transportation to get back and forth to work proved one of the most challenging aspects of Aziz’s transition. His fear of encountering ex-rival gang members in his changed state added an extra layer of difficulty to his parole conditions. 

He also stated that those situations are similar to his college courses, recalling scenarios where he had to use critical thinking skills. “We learned to turn challenges into opportunities while sitting in a classroom,” Aziz said. “I wanted to use this to help my community, even if they are my ex-rival gang members.”  

That inspiration to help others led Aziz to graduate from The Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program (FFRP), who was then hired to serve as a wildland firefighter with The Urban Association of Forestry and Fire Professionals, a non-profit Fire Department. In his role, Aziz actively trains individuals to become professional wildland firefighters. The FFRP is stationed in various locations throughout California and is currently promoting a pilot program in Calabasas where they partnered with LA County to start training in Camp Gonzalez. 

There is a chapter in Oakland for those interested in connecting with Aziz and the organization. They welcome individuals who share their passion and commitment to making a positive impact through firefighting. Watch their trailer here.

Alumni Spotlight: Aly Tamboura

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Aly Tamboura, a distinguished 2015 graduate of Mount Tamalpais College, has proven to be a leading figure in the criminal justice reform space. After his release from San Quentin, Aly took on a pivotal role as the Criminal Justice Reform Program Manager at the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI), a Philanthropic foundation started by Mark Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan, who both toured San Quentin in 2014.

Graduating from Mount Tamalpais College marked a crucial turning point in his life, providing him with more tools and knowledge to fuel his passion for criminal justice reform. Mount Tamalpais College, known for its commitment to educating incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals, played a pivotal role in shaping Aly’s commitment to social justice.

Aly’s firsthand experience with the criminal justice system ignited a genuine determination to advocate for change. After graduating from Mount Tamalpais College, Aly transitioned into a career dedicated to transforming criminal justice from punitive to centering on healing and reconciliation. As a Criminal Justice Reform Program Manager at CZI, he was a crucial voice in building non-profit coalitions and supporting reform initiatives across the United States. 

Aly collaborated with prominent organizations and leaders, like the Formerly Incarcerated Convicted People and Families Movement (FICPFM), The Last Mile, and Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, and served on MTC’s board of directors for three years.

Aly’s collaboration with FICPFM has been instrumental to its ability to achieve significant milestones in criminal justice reform. Notably, the coalition contributed to the success of Louisiana’s Amendment 2, overturning a Jim Crow-era law on non-unanimous juries. Additionally, CZI’s support led to reinstating federal Pell Grants for incarcerated students, opening doors to education and opportunity.

After his work at CZI, Aly joined the Anti-Recidivism Coalition as their Director of Strategic Partnerships. His continued dedication to dismantling barriers and supporting individuals with criminal convictions underscores his commitment to creating a more just and inclusive society.

Aly’s continued contributions to the reform movement testify to his belief that everyone has the potential for positive change, even in the face of adversity. To have gone from Mount Tamalpais College graduate to a key player in criminal justice reform exemplifies the transformative power of education and advocacy. His unwavering commitment to change, fueled by personal experience and a solid educational foundation, inspires others to pursue justice and equity.

Photo courtesy of Aly Tamboura and Phoeun You. Aly is in Cambodia with alumni Phoeun.

Alumni Spotlight: Jesse Vasquez

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Mount Tamalpais College, known for its commitment to providing quality education to incarcerated individuals at San Quentin, played a crucial role in shaping Jesse Vasquez’s perspective and fueling his desire for positive change and growth.

Jesse has become a driving force in the nonprofit sector. As the Executive Director of Friends of San Quentin News and Pollen Initiative, he spearheads initiatives that empower incarcerated individuals through multimedia programs, including San Quentin News and ForwardThis Productions. These initiatives, not only provide avenues for self-expression but also contribute to breaking down societal barriers and stereotypes associated with incarceration.

As a juvenile, Jesse Vasquez spent almost two decades within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. However, former Governor Jerry Brown commuted his sentence, offering him a second chance outside prison walls.

One of Jesse’s accomplishments out of many is his graduation from college. “Having the opportunity to graduate from college underscores the power of education, showcasing how learning becomes a catalyst for personal growth and empowerment,” Jesse said.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jesse’s commitment to community service shone brightly as he worked with the Alameda County Community Food Bank. His efforts in distributing resources to thousands of families showcased his dedication to addressing immediate needs during challenging times, exemplifying the values of compassion and solidarity.

Jesse’s impact extends far beyond the confines of Arsola’s Distribution Center and the reentry resource centers he has helped establish in East Oakland, CA. His unwavering commitment to providing tangible support for formerly incarcerated individuals is a demonstration of his dedication to social change. Through his adept coordination of housing and resources, Jesse actively engages in the reintegration process, acknowledging the myriad challenges faced by those transitioning back into society.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Jesse Vasquez generously dedicates his time to volunteer work in local high schools. Drawing upon his own lived experiences and the wisdom acquired on his journey, Jesse becomes a leader of inspiration for teenagers navigating adversities. His invaluable insights and guidance serve as a source of empowerment, enabling young individuals to recognize and seize the array of options and opportunities available to them. In doing so, Jesse plays a pivotal role in fostering resilience and determination among these teens, empowering them to overcome challenges and construct brighter futures, regardless of their environmental circumstances.

Furthermore, Jesse’s advocacy extends into the realm of societal norms within the criminal justice space. His tireless efforts to encourage transformative changes have positioned him as a true inspiration, challenging established norms and promoting a more compassionate and just system. Jesse Vasquez stands as an example of the profound impact one individual can have on both the lives of those directly affected by incarceration and the broader transformation of societal attitudes toward growth and change.

Alumni Spotlight: Javier Jimenez

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MTC alumni Javier Jimenez was released to the small town of Tracy, CA on March 16th, 2020. Despite not being able to walk the stage that year with his classmates because of the Covid-19 pandemic, he recalls saying,“ I’m just glad to be free.” However, on March 18, Javier found that Tracy had closed operating buildings with businesses at half capacity. “I did not have the opportunity to apply for a job, get a license or a social security card because most government buildings closed down two days after I was released from prison,” Javier said.

He was searching for employment and housing upon reentering society but soon realized that his support network group could not help him either, as the programs they were working with had shut down.

Javier stated that he visited 15 different apartments and eventually ended up buying a trailer to live in because nobody would rent him an apartment or a hotel room. “I went to one of those hourly hotels on Wilson Way in Stockton and they asked if I had a felony and refused to rent me a hotel,” said Javier, explaining that the person at the hotel started to question him because he had no identification to show them at that time.

“My parole officer tried to get me a job and help, I guess, but I didn’t receive any,” said Javier. He started selling bicycles on the marketplaceFacebook – and that’s what sustained him for eight months until he finally got a job through his friend. “If it wasn’t for my mom finding an old washed-up social security card, I don’t know what I would’ve done.

”He printed a copy of his social security card, which was so old it was barely legible, and placed it in Photoshop like he has done many times as the photographer for San Quentin News and darkened the numbers. He told his friend what he had done.

He said that his friend knew that he couldn’t use a copy of his social security card to hire Javier, but he hired Javier as an Operating EngineerWater Tender anyway.

Javier stated that he acquired the skills he used to fix his social security card in Photoshop from his passion: photography. Javier graduated from high school in 1995 and started college in 1998 where he took a photography class in college.

“I never really paid attention in college to photography, but I knew I liked it,” Javier said. He said he finds taking pictures peaceful. “It’s my Zen and I want to make memories and capture them. I’m trying to leave my memories behind.”

Javier said that his interest in photography peaked again when he became the photographer for San Quentin News. “When R.J. Mickelson from the San Francisco Chronicle came inside the San Quentinnewsroom, I was amazed at all the information that he taught us.”

Javier said that R.J. taught him about shutter speed and apertures. “He was our Internet at that time, and he brought me all the information I needed to become a professional photographer and I still have his material today. I just started an Instagram and a Facebook page so I can show my work. I would love to become a photographer and leave my digital Imprint on this world.”

Alumni Spotlight: Randy Akins

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In a world where second chances are hard to come by, Randy Akins’ story is a testament to the power of redemption and personal growth. Once imprisoned and serving a life sentence, he has emerged as more than an alumnus of Mount Tamalpais College. He now lives in San Francisco and dedicates his life to saving lives as a Medical Transportation driver. Randy’s incredible journey of transformation and his impact on the lives of those in need is remarkable.

Randy’s tragic turn of events found him involved in a regrettable incident that led to prison. This event forced him to confront the consequences of his actions, sparking a deep sense of remorse and the urgent need for change. Randy accepted his sentence and knew he had to make amends by transforming himself into a better person.

Randy committed himself to personal growth and self-improvement behind the prison walls. “I took advantage of as many educational programs as were available, one being Mount Tamalpais College,” said Randy.  “I studied extensively to earn knowledge and subsequently enrolling in college courses.” Randy was determined to demonstrate change for the better and was committed to creating a positive impact. 

Upon his release, Randy knew that he wanted to dedicate his life to positive growth. He found inspiration in the selfless actions of emergency medical services personnel and decided to pursue his career as an ambulance truck driver. Despite many challenges, he persevered, obtaining the necessary certifications and training to be considered for this critical role. Now working as a Medical Transportation driver, Randy Akins brings hope and healing to those in need. His past experiences have persevered, obtaining the necessary certifications and training to be considered for this critical role. 

Now working as a Medical Transportation driver, Randy Akins brings hope and healing to those in need. His past experiences have given him a unique perspective on life, propelling him to go above and beyond to make a difference. Randy passionately serves his community, responding to emergency calls, and providing vital medical assistance to those in distress.

Randy’s journey from life behind bars to becoming a college graduate and a lifesaver serves as an inspiration to countless individuals who believe in the power of personal growth and opportunities after incarceration. Randy uses his life story as a tool to engage with at-risk youth, speaking at schools and correctional facilities to highlight the importance of making positive choices and taking responsibility for one’s actions.

Randy Akins has transformed from a troubled past to a beacon of hope and redemption. His commitment to personal growth and dedication to saving lives through his role as a Medical Transportation driver exemplify the power of human resilience and the potential for change. Randy’s story reminds us that while redemption may be a long and challenging road, it is possible for anyone willing to embrace personal growth and work towards a brighter future.

Rahsaan Thomas of ‘Ear Hustle’ released from prison a year after commutation from Newsom

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Rahsaan Thomas is a Mount Tamalpais College graduate. He wrote about his path to graduation here.

SACRAMENTO —  Rahsaan Thomas was released from San Quentin State Prison on Wednesday, more than year after he was granted a commutation from Gov. Gavin Newsom for his rehabilitation behind bars, including his work for the Pulitzer Prize-nominated “Ear Hustle” podcast.

Thomas’ supporters had advocated for his release for years. His departure from San Quentin came hours after the Times featured Thomas in a published report about dozens of people remaining in prison despite receiving mercy from the governor.

Thomas was among 123 people Newsom has granted commutations, or reductions of sentences, since he became governor in 2019. But as of January, a third of those people remained behind bars — in some cases years after the governor’s recommendations, according to data from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

That’s due largely to Newsom’s decision to defer to the parole board in the vast majority of his commutations instead of using his clemency power to free them unilaterally.

Thomas’ sentence was commuted by the governor in January 2022 and he was granted parole by the board in August, but as of Tuesday remained in San Quentin State Prison.

Thomas, 52, was sentenced to 55 years and six months to life for a second-degree murder conviction and other charges after he fatally shot someone and injured another during a drug deal in 2000, according to clemency documents.

In his commutation, Newsom praised Thomas for completing college courses and an array of self-help programming saying he has “dedicated himself to his rehabilitation.” Thomas had received dozens of recommendations for clemency, including wide support from fans of his journalism covering prison life.

In interviews with The Times in early January, Thomas said he was thankful to both the governor and the parole board and that the process helped him to heal and reflect on his past. 

But he also criticized the lengthy process, saying that “every day matters.”

Even for those who are granted parole, release is not immediate. There is a review period of up to 150 days following a parole board hearing, which allows decisions to be overseen by the board’s legal team and the governor before they are finalized.

Thomas said he and his family were struggling not knowing when he would be released.

“I can’t curse a blessing,” Thomas said from prison in January. “My one wish is that this process, if you get a commutation, it should be streamlined. Really, it should be streamlined for everybody. … If you decided it’s safe to let me go, why drag it out?”

Thomas could not be reached for a statement on Wednesday, but a spokesperson for “Ear Hustle” said they “couldn’t be happier” about his release and called him “an important voice.”

“The ‘Ear Hustle’ team looks forward to working with Rahsaan on the outside to keep bringing audiences stories about life during and after incarceration,” a spokesperson said. “This is a special moment. We’re grateful to our listeners for their extraordinary support.”

A fundraiser had collected nearly $10,000 as of Wednesday from 137 donors to support Thomas post-release.

Photo: Earlonne Woods, from left, Nigel Poor, and Rahsaan Thomas on Wednesday after Thomas was released from San Quentin State Prison. (Courtesy “Ear Hustle”)

Attributions: This article originally appeared in the Los Angeles Times, on February 8, 2023.