Hey everyone, my name is Deshaun Durham. I’m 26 years old and currently studying Political Science at KU with hopes of becoming an attorney.

A little background about me. In 2022, I was sentenced to over 7 years in prison for a nonviolent marijuana offense. After serving nearly 3 years, Governor Laura Kelly granted me clemency and I was given a second chance at life.

Since getting out, I’ve made it a priority to make the most of that second chance. I’ve earned Dean’s List honors, continued working toward my degree, and gotten involved in criminal justice reform and motivational speaking.
I enjoy sharing my story because I know there are people out there who feel like they’ve made too many mistakes or that their future is already decided for them. I want people to know that isn’t true.

I’m posting here because I’d love to get more involved around campus and hopefully find opportunities to speak with student organizations, fraternities, athletic teams, or really any group that might benefit from hearing my experiences.
I’m not looking for sympathy or anything like that. I just want to use what I’ve been through to hopefully make a difference in someone else’s life.
If anyone knows of any opportunities or people I should reach out to, I’d really appreciate it.
Rock Chalk!