Second-Chance Hiring for People with Incarceration Histories

In her current position as Director of the LA County Justice, Care and Opportunities Department, she has created new programs and worked with a broad coalition of governmental, non-profit, and private groups. To date, she has overseen the allocation of $350 million for community investment, interventions, and alternatives to incarceration. 
 
As a Superior Court Judge, she had one of the best records for reducing recidivism and the highest rates of compliance. As a prosecutor, her programs impacting veterans, the unhoused, and individuals with mental health and substance use disorders received state and national recognition. As a gifted educator on the topic of implicit bias, she has trained thousands of justice system partners, including attorneys and the Justices of the California Appellate and Supreme Courts. 
 
Judge Armstead is a master teacher, keynote speaker, commentator, and expert in systems change. Judge Armstead’s training and work experiences also encompass systems change, leadership development, conflict resolution, strategic planning, team building, belonging, representation, and justice. 
 
Beyond Judge Songhai’s professional journey, her personal story highlights her resilience, growth, and hard-won success. Her journey grounds her work in empathy, empowering others to view their trials and adversities as strengths to embrace. She guides both individuals and organizations through a process of internal reflection, growth, and meaningful change.