Investigating undergraduate stigma toward formerly incarcerated classmates.

Nearly one in three Americans has a criminal record, yet individuals with justice involvement face significant barriers to higher education due to stigma and exclusionary policies. This study, led by OW student Kieran J. Schendel , explores undergraduate students’ attitudes toward classmates with criminal records compared to those with mental health diagnoses. With over 300 students surveyed, the research investigates how stigma affects campus inclusion and support. Findings suggest that students tend to hold more negative views of peers with criminal records than those with mental illness—highlighting the need for increased awareness and stigma-reduction initiatives in higher education. The project was funded by a CURE grant and approved by SUNY Old Westbury’s IRB.

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Status: preparation for publication