COLUMBIA, S.C. — A New Chapter Begins for Inmates with College Degrees
In an inspiring ceremony held at the Kirkland Campus of the South Carolina Department of Corrections, a group of inmates celebrated a milestone that many thought was out of reach. This past Friday, 18 individuals proudly graduated from a special college program in collaboration with Columbia International University (CIU). Family and friends filled the room with joy as they watched their loved ones step into a new future.
Rusty’s Remarkable Journey
Among the graduates was Rusty, who at 74 years young, has become a beacon of hope for many. After applying four times, he finally received the acceptance letter he had been eagerly awaiting. With a heart full of gratitude, Rusty shared how enrolling in the program was nothing short of a blessing. “This opportunity at my age, at 74 years old, being able to attend college and seek out an associate of arts degree was a blessing that I did not deserve, but I take it,” he said. “I don’t take it for granted; I appreciate it very much.”
Supportive Staff and a Unique Mission
Dr. Andre Melvin, the program director, expressed pride in the students saying, “They seize opportunity to better themselves, to grow, to learn, and they’re so grateful and appreciative of our program and of our faculty coming in and sharing life with them.” With a supportive environment, inmates are encouraged not only by faculty but by each other, creating a community of growth and learning.
A Life-Changing Program
The program has been a part of South Carolina’s landscape since 2007 and has hit a remarkable milestone, celebrating its 15th cohort this year. Each year, eligible inmates go through a rigorous application and interview process to join the two-year program led by dedicated professors from CIU. The results have been transformational, with many graduates finding renewed purpose as they take on roles as missionaries and ministers in various facilities after their release.
Encouragement for a Brighter Future
Dr. Melvin highlighted the challenge many inmates face when considering higher education, stating, “A lot of them aren’t sure that they can get a college degree, and so we encourage them, and they encourage each other to stick with it.” This atmosphere of encouragement helps nurture a positive mindset enabling inmates to overcome self-doubt and fears about their capabilities.
Beyond Graduation
After receiving their degrees, graduates like Rusty are not just walking away with an education but are being relocated to different prisons across South Carolina where they can put their degrees to good use as missionaries. This unique path allows them to share their journeys with others still on the inside, offering hope and mentorship to fellow inmates, and reinforcing the program’s mission of rehabilitation and personal growth.
Looking Ahead
The impact of this program goes beyond education, instilling a sense of purpose and community among its participants. As these graduates step into the world armed with knowledge and a vision for their future, they embody the spirit of resilience and the power of second chances.
With continued support from generous donors and the CIU faculty, initiatives like this not only change lives but also uplift entire communities. As the stories of these graduates inspire others, we are reminded that it’s never too late to learn and pursue our dreams – proving that education truly has the power to change lives.
