They can’t go to Kent State football games or frat parties. 

They can’t even use the internet for their classes. 

But they’re earning Kent State credits and taking a full course load while behind bars.

The Kent State Lifelong Learning Prison Education program recently celebrated its first graduation, with 18 inmates getting their diplomas before finishing their sentences. 

The prison education program launched in 2021 at two prisons near the Salem campus, the Federal Correctional Institution Elkton and the Trumbull Correctional Institution. It offers an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in business management and entrepreneurship.

The first 18 inmates graduated in January with a commencement ceremony at Elkton Correctional.

The courses have the same rigor and workload as on-campus students, said Kim Steele-Marks, academic program director at Kent State’s Salem campus. 

“Coursework expectations are the same as those of any Kent State course, regardless of where or how it is taught; the learning objectives remain consistent,” Steele-Marks said. “They are eligible for the same recognitions, such as the Dean’s and President’s lists, as well as graduating with distinction or honors.” 

Teachers rave about the experience of working with the inmates. Stephen Boyles, Kent State prison outreach coordinator, said students in the program are ready to learn. 

“I’ve seen students incredibly engaged, excited to learn, and grateful for an opportunity to have a fresh start and an environment to critically think about the world around them.”

The program offers more than access to college courses; it also provides a chance for rehabilitation.

“Inmates are 43% less likely to reoffend after participating in the program,” said Steele-Marks. “The students I have worked with at Elkton are some of the best I have ever encountered. There are no special perks that incentivize being in the program. They are engaged because they want an education.” 

Teachers say the program’s impact extends beyond the classroom, helping participants build confidence, improve their outlook and develop goals for the future. 

“One of our students has been released and now works in case management at a halfway house, providing peer support in a way that only someone who is justice-impacted would understand,” Boyles said. “This really speaks to the ripple effect of the benefits this program provides, not just to the individual, but to society as well. Attaining a bachelor’s degree made this future career possible for him.” 

This shows one of several success stories to emerge from the program, which currently has 19 full-time students at TCI and 18 at Elkton. 

“Due to our limits based on funding, not all students can participate. Both locations have institutional rules regarding who can participate, and all prospective students still have to be able to go through KSU’s admission criteria as well, such as submitting all transcripts, et cetera,” Steele-Marks said.

Students are sponsored by community scholarships, Pell grants or Ohio Department of Rehabilitation funds.

Stories of incarcerated individuals pursuing higher education are inspiring to many around the world, helping raise awareness of the Lifelong Learning program and its impact.

“Increased visibility can drive donations and sustain efforts to provide inmates with opportunities for a second chance,” Boyles said. 

That second chance through the program makes a difference for the inmates and those around them. 

“It really does make a difference, not only in the lives of the students, but also in the lives of the faculty and staff involved in the program,” Steele-Marks said. “It also has a positive impact on institutional staff who see the work, dedication and growth of the inmates.”

Bailey Thomas is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].