Breaking Chains: The Power of Education in Prison

As the prison gates swing open, a new generation of scholars is emerging. For the past decade, Boston College has been at the forefront of this movement, offering a liberal arts education to inmates behind bars. On September 23, the university will host its first-ever graduation ceremony, marking a significant milestone in its Prison Education Program. The program, founded in 2019, has come a long way since its humble beginnings. From a small group of 16 students, the program has grown to become one of the largest and most successful college-in-prison programs in the country. Today, it boasts a total of 80 students, with a new cohort admitted every year. But what sets this program apart is its commitment to providing a quality education that goes beyond mere job training. Students study a range of subjects, from the arts and sciences to employment-oriented courses like entrepreneurship and personal finance. And if they're released before graduating, the university offers support both on campus and online to help them complete their degree. The benefits of this program extend far beyond the individual students. By providing a sense of purpose and belonging, college-in-prison programs can help reduce recidivism rates and promote rehabilitation. But they also offer a unique opportunity for prisoners to develop their own interests, engage with others, and reflect on their lives in a meaningful way. As one student put it, "To make a human life in prison, that is the task. " By providing a quality education, Boston College is helping prisoners achieve just that – and it's a task that goes far beyond mere academic achievement.