BERKELEY, Calif. – Somdeng Danny Thongsy, a 45-year-old immigrant from Southeast Asia, has defied the odds by graduating from the University of California, Berkeley with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. His journey from a troubled past to academic success serves as an inspiration to many facing similar challenges.

Overcoming Adversity

Thongsy’s story is one of resilience and determination. Born in a refugee camp in Thailand during the war in Laos, he immigrated to a low-income neighborhood in Stockton, California, as a young child. Growing up in a challenging environment, he found himself drawn into gang activities, culminating in a tragic event at the age of 17 when his brother was murdered by a rival gang member. This loss plunged Thongsy into a deep depression, ultimately leading to his involvement in a retaliatory act that resulted in a 25-year prison sentence for second-degree murder.

Transformation Behind Bars

Despite the bleak circumstances of his incarceration, Thongsy embarked on a journey of self-discovery and redemption. Finding solace in religion, he began to seek forgiveness and pursue education. He obtained his GED and later earned an Associate’s degree while advocating for fellow inmates as a member of the Asian Prisoner Support Committee.

Advocacy and Recognition

Thongsy’s commitment to personal growth and community service did not go unnoticed. Despite facing potential deportation due to his felony conviction, he received a pardon from Governor Gavin Newsom in 2020, recognizing his rehabilitation and advocacy efforts. This pardon granted him the opportunity to join the Underground Scholars program at UC Berkeley, a support network for formerly incarcerated students founded by Danny Murillo in 2013.

Impact and Expansion

Thongsy’s success highlights the transformative power of education and support for individuals with criminal backgrounds. The Underground Scholars program, initially established as a student-led initiative, has since expanded to every UC campus and numerous community colleges across California. Its mission to provide a pathway from prison to university has received significant state funding, with $4 million allocated annually to support formerly incarcerated and system-impacted students statewide.

A Message of Hope

As Thongsy celebrates his graduation alongside 40 fellow Underground Scholars at UC Berkeley, he offers words of encouragement to others facing similar struggles. His message is clear: it’s never too late to pursue one’s dreams. Thongsy plans to continue his advocacy work, aiming to support marginalized communities and empower formerly incarcerated individuals within the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community.

Conclusion: Inspiring Futures

Somdeng Danny Thongsy’s remarkable journey from incarceration to graduation exemplifies the transformative power of education, resilience, and community support. His story serves as a beacon of hope for individuals striving to overcome adversity and pursue a brighter future. As Thongsy embarks on the next chapter of his life, his unwavering commitment to advocacy and empowerment continues to inspire others to dream big and defy the odds.

Sources:

• University of California, Berkeley
• Asian Prisoner Support Committee
• Office of Governor Gavin Newsom

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