With the help of community colleges, students in recovery find a fresh start

Nomi Badboy’s journey—more than 12 years sober after nine bouts of treatment—has created a structure in her life that supports college success as much as it supports her well-being. Her peers in Minneapolis College’s recovery program understand that in a way few others can, she says, and she feels accountable to them. Community colleges are increasingly embracing students who are recovering from substance use disorder, creating programs and tackling challenges like funding and staffing. Their involvement offers a path to access—and second chances.