Excel Restorative Court Honors 2025 Cohort of Graduates

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Excel Restorative Court, launched by Cobb County Superior Court Judge Kellie Hill, celebrated a milestone this week by honoring the Class of 2025, recognizing participants who successfully completed the court’s restorative justice program. Family members, community partners, and local leaders gathered to applaud the graduates’ dedication to transformation, accountability, and community healing.

Judge Hill established the program to provide an alternative approach to justice, emphasizing personal responsibility, reconciliation, and reintegration rather than punishment alone. Participants completed a comprehensive curriculum that included life skills development, mental health and substance-use support, employment readiness, and community service.

The Excel Restorative Court model centers on the belief that justice should heal both individuals and communities. Participants work closely with court staff, mentors, counselors, and volunteer advocates to address the root causes of their involvement in the justice system and to build sustainable pathways forward. The graduation ceremony marked the culmination of months of hard work, accountability, and growth.

“We are incredibly proud of our 2025 cohort,” said Judge Kelli Hill. “These graduates exemplify what is possible when individuals are supported, challenged, and encouraged to make positive changes in their lives. Their success is a testament to their resilience and commitment to their families and communities.

Several graduates shared reflections on their journey:

• “This program gave me the tools to rebuild my life and reconnect with my community,” said one participant.
• “I learned how to take responsibility for my actions and make choices I can be proud of,” another graduate added.

Family members in attendance described the ceremony as emotional and uplifting, celebrating not only completion of the program but the personal growth each graduate achieved along the way.

The success of the Excel Restorative Court’s 2025 cohort was made possible by partnerships with local nonprofits, faith leaders, employers, and mental health providers. These collaborators provided resources, mentoring, and opportunities that helped participants stay engaged and succeed in their goals.

Local officials noted that restorative justice models like Excel’s play an important role in promoting public safety, reducing recidivism, and strengthening community bonds.

With the 2025 graduation behind them, the Excel Restorative Court now turns its attention to supporting alumni as they transition into the next chapter of their lives. Program staff emphasized ongoing mentoring, workforce connections, and peer support as critical components of long-term success.

The graduation ceremony served not just as an ending, but as a beginning — a celebration of second chances, accountability, and the power of community to uplift those who choose a different path.