The Collegiate Peaks Forum Series: Author Talk with David R. Carrillo

We invite students, educators, community members, justice‑system professionals, and anyone interested in civic learning and personal transformation to hear the extraordinary story of David R. Carrillo, author of the memoir Kiko: From Life Without Parole to Life with Purpose.
About the Event
This author talk provides an opportunity to hear directly from David about his remarkable journey—from being sentenced to life without parole, to becoming the first incarcerated person in the United States hired as a college professor, to earning clemency after more than three decades in prison. His story embodies themes central to the 2026 commemorations:

The ongoing evolution of American democracy
The role of education in expanding opportunity
How individuals shape and reshape the civic landscape

During the talk, David will explore:

His early pursuit of education beginning with his first college course through Colorado Mountain College
His academic path to earning an associate's degree, bachelor's degree with honors, and eventually an MBA
His groundbreaking work teaching business and economics courses to fellow incarcerated students
How lived experience can inform justice reform, policy, and community engagement today

Event Activities

Author Presentation: David shares key moments from his life, his book, and his work in justice advocacy.
Audience Q&A: Attendees will have the chance to engage directly with David and discuss themes of education, reform, and civic responsibility.
Book Signing: Copies of Kiko, offered by The Book Club Salida, will be available for purchase at the event.

Who Should Attend
This event is ideal for:

CMC students and faculty
High school students and educators
Community members interested in justice, democracy, and education
Local leaders and civic organizations
Anyone inspired by stories of resilience, purpose, and social impact