Laura Emiko Soltis

Executive Director Professor @Freedom University

Atlanta, GA, US

In the fall of 2013, I joined the faculty team of Freedom University, teaching college-level courses in social movement theory and immigration studies to undocumented youth ages 16-24. In August 2014, I was appointed the organization\'s first Executive Director. In this capacity, I work to advance the undocumented student movement in the South by building bridges between undocumented and documented student groups, advocating for fair admissions policies in higher education, and cultivating intergenerational relationships between undocumented students and veterans of the Black Freedom Movement. I am responsible for designing Freedom University\'s curriculum, recruiting faculty, supporting undocumented student empowerment and grassroots leadership, building networks of colleges committed to fair admissions policies, organizing national college tours, building solidarity with diverse allies, developing a multidimensional social movement strategy, and executing non-violent direct actions to advance the goals of the undocumented student movement. I am also responsible for the organization\'s communications and public relations, accounting, board relations, website design, volunteer management, and community engagement with faith groups, student organizations, and educators. I also coordinate with elected officials, social justice organizations, and human rights legal mechanisms at state, national, and international levels.