Building Bridges

Connecting voices. Shaping policy. Advancing justice.

Mission

 

To create a collaborative space where policymakers, advocates, researchers, and directly impacted individuals in the U.S. and abroad come together to advance criminal justice reform through dialogue, data, and shared solutions. The Building Bridges conference is committed to fostering accountability, mutual learning, amplifying lived experiences, and driving systemic change in Connecticut’s justice system and beyond.  

About

Building Bridges is an annual conference hosted by the Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy (IMRP), convening a diverse community of changemakers. With a focus on advancing criminal justice reform, the conference offers a collaborative space to exchange data, elevate lived experiences, and develop innovative, evidence-based solutions. Building Bridges fosters cross-sector dialogue and lasting partnerships that influence local, national, and global justice policies.

History

Launched in 2003, Building Bridges began as a response to Connecticut’s early justice reinvestment efforts and quickly grew into a dynamic platform for reform. Initially hosted by IMRP at Central Connecticut State University, the conference reflected a growing commitment to data-driven and community-informed approaches to justice. As its impact expanded, Building Bridges began incorporating international voices and perspectives, laying the groundwork for initiatives such as the International Justice Exchange (IJE) and Connecticut Children with Incarcerated Parents (CTCIP). Today, IMRP is housed at the University of Connecticut Hartford campus within the School of Public Policy.

Full conference with all attendees from recap video.

Gathering of the 2014 Building Bridges Meeting with view of speaker and attendants.

Timeline

Key Contributors

Image of key organizer Bill Dyson

William Dyson

Former State Representative

A longtime advocate for justice reform, William Dyson brings decades of legislative experience and deep community insight. As a key voice in shaping the early foundations of Building Bridges, he continues to guide the conference’s direction and ensure it remains grounded in both policy and lived experience. 

Image of key organizer Andrew Clark

Andrew Clark

Director, Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy (IMRP)

Andrew Clark leads IMRP’s mission to advance equity and justice through policy research, program development, and stakeholder engagement. Under his leadership, Building Bridges has expanded its reach and impact, integrating community voices and evidence-based practices into policy conversations. 

Contact Us

For more information, reach out to the CIP Initiative: