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Tumia Romero, Ph.D. is a 2025 graduate of the PhD Program in Leadership and Change at Antioch University.

Tumia Romero at her Dissertation Defense.

From L-R: Dr. Jennifer Raymond, Committee Chair, Dr. Danny K, Davis, Committee Member, Dr. Nancy Bozill, Committee Member

Dissertation Committee

  • Jennifer Raymond, PhD, Committee Chair
  • Nancy Boxill, PhD, Committee Member
  • Danny K. Davis, PhD, Committee Member

Keywords

African American, reentry, females, Second Chance Act of 2007 (2008); women, housing, criminal justice, programs, poverty, gender entrapment

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2025

Abstract

This dissertation examines the content of the Second Chance Act (SCA) to understand its potential impact on the reentry of African American females into society, highlighting the intersectionality of race and gender within the criminal justice system. Despite the SCA’s intentions to facilitate the reintegration of incarcerated individuals, its language and implementation have mainly remained gender-neutral, not addressing the unique challenges faced by African American females. This study employs a qualitative content analysis approach to examine the Second Chance Act, assessing its effectiveness in addressing the social determinants and barriers to reentry that are specific to African American females. According to the scholarly literature, to facilitate successful reentry, reduce recidivism, and promote reintegration, policies and programs must address the unique experiences of African American females. Chapter IV offers the findings from the content analysis. Chapter V considers the findings in relation to the literature review and the SCA and, through careful consideration of the previous chapters, recommends amending the SCA’s policies and programs to specifically address the needs of African American females, thereby improving their post-incarceration outcomes and overall societal reintegration.

Dissertation full text has been embargoed until July, 2026

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Tumia Romero

ORCID: #0009-0002-6553-871

Tumia Romero is a public servant, policy strategist, and advocate for justice with a deep commitment to community empowerment. As Chief of Staff to Congressman Danny K. Davis, she leads with purpose and heart, drawing from her lived experience and decades of service. A doctoral scholar and Chicago native, Tumia champions equity, reentry reform, and transformational leadership rooted in compassion.

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