A COLLABORATION FOR PEACE LEADERS

The Master of Arts in Restorative Justice Facilitation and Leadership (MARJ) program at the University of San Diego is entering an exciting new chapter. Beginning in the 2026–2027 academic year, the program will transition from the School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES) to the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies (Kroc School). Additionally, the Center for Restorative Justice will relocate to be housed within the Kroc School.

A SHARED VISION

By bringing together SOLES’ renowned leadership expertise with the Kroc School’s mission-driven focus on peace and justice, this collaboration offers students new opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills needed to foster healing, prevent harm, and strengthen communities.

“The Restorative Justice movement in the United States was born from a deep dissatisfaction with the punitive focus of criminal justice systems, mixed with deep religious convictions that offenders who take responsibility and make amends for their actions still have much to offer society and deserve a shot to find their way home. Thus, the transition of the MARJ program to the Kroc School is both natural and strategic. It aligns with our mission to advance peace and justice, while honoring the academic excellence and values that have defined the program since its launch. Together with SOLES, our shared goal is to ensure the MARJ program continues to grow in ways that make it relevant and impactful across education, nonprofit work, criminal justice, and every field where restorative practices can create lasting change,” said Dean Kew, Dean of the Kroc School.

Together, SOLES and the Kroc School are ensuring the MARJ program continues to evolve in ways that are relevant, responsive, and impactful across disciplines.

“This evolution opens new opportunities for students to deepen their practice while preserving the values and pedagogical foundation that have defined the program,” said Kimberly A. White-Smith, EdD, Dean of SOLES. “Our shared goal is to ensure students are not only well prepared academically, but also empowered to integrate restorative practices into the diverse contexts where they are most needed, and to create meaningful impact within their communities and in the spaces where justice and healing are most urgently needed.”

Since its launch, the MARJ program has prepared students with the skills and knowledge to facilitate restorative justice processes in schools, nonprofits, the criminal justice system, and beyond. The Kroc School, with its mission rooted in advancing peace and justice, offers a natural home for the program’s future growth.

“Restorative justice practitioners are peacemakers, helping people work through conflict and harm. Joining the Kroc School will provide MARJ students with new tools and opportunities that will advance their learning in conflict resolution and collaborative problem solving,” said David Karp, PhD, MARJ Program Director and professor.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR CURRENT STUDENTS

Current and incoming Fall 2025 students will remain enrolled through SOLES for the entirety of their program, ensuring continuity throughout their studies. At the same time, these cohorts will play an important role in shaping the MARJ program as it prepares to take root within the Kroc School of Peace Studies.

Looking Forward »

Looking ahead, students will benefit from the Kroc School’s global network, interdisciplinary approach, and commitment to equipping students with the knowledge and skills to lead change. This transition ensures the MARJ program continues to thrive and remain relevant across the many fields where restorative practices are urgently needed. With student experience at its core, the program will continue to evolve, and we look forward to welcoming MARJ students into the Kroc School community—one deeply committed to justice and meaningful impact.

The move marks a natural and strategic evolution. It honors the program’s origins at SOLES while creating space for new possibilities within the Kroc School for innovation, deeper impact, and broader connections for students and alumni.