Eastern Michigan University's College in Prison Program Celebrates Pioneering Graduation

Milestone Graduation at EMU's College in Prison Program

On July 30, 2025, Eastern Michigan University (EMU) will mark a significant achievement as it celebrates the graduation of the first cohort from its innovative College in Prison program at the Women's Huron Valley Correctional Facility. This institution, the only women's prison in Michigan, is the first public establishment to offer a bachelor's degree program specifically designed for incarcerated women. The inaugural group consists of 12 students who are set to receive their Bachelor of General Studies degrees, achieving an impressive cumulative GPA of 3.93.

The College in Prison program was launched in 2023 with a vision to uplift and empower incarcerated women through education. In just a few years, the program has expanded from a modest beginning with 20 students to serving a diverse group of 75 learners, all engaged in academic pursuits led by EMU faculty. The curriculum mirrors the University’s on-campus experience, providing students opportunities for in-depth academic research and participation in scholarly discussions, while equipping them with essential skills that foster personal development and facilitate reintegration into society.

Director Meghan Lechner emphasized the meaningful impact of this achievement, stating, "These women represent the transformative power of education within the prison system. Their hard work and success showcase how education can invigorate critical thinking, empathy, and recognition of one's potential in a traditionally marginalized environment."

The challenges faced by incarcerated women are significant. As the fastest-growing demographic in the prison population, many have endured trauma, systemic inequality, and economic hardship. The EMU program seeks to overturn these barriers by prioritizing education as a pathway to empowerment and change. As part of its outreach, the University has established partnerships with organizations to provide individualized resources for students upon their release. This proactive approach is designed to help graduates access employment, housing, and community services.

Moreover, EMU’s Writing Center has played a vital role in offering tailored support, including one-on-one tutoring sessions twice a month. This spring, the institution hosted its 45th Annual Undergraduate Symposium, where students showcased academic projects on various subjects such as educational strategies and dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline.

Beyond academics, the program has fostered camaraderie among students, leading to the founding of several clubs, including the BOSS Business Club, WHOLE ME Wellness Club, Writing Club, and the Behind the Wire Student Newsletter. These activities not only promote skill-building but also provide critical social support networks.

Graduate Katherine Woods acknowledged the transformative role of EMU in her life, stating, "Respect, integrity, and excellence are the qualities that EMU embodies. I am deeply thankful for the opportunities I've received, as they have reshaped my educational journey and personal growth."

Looking ahead, many graduates aspire to further their education with master’s degrees in fields like business, social work, and architecture, while others aim to launch careers in community development, entrepreneurial ventures, and nonprofit advocacy.

As EMU continues to empower these students, personalized reentry planning will be a cornerstone of their reintegration strategy, ensuring that they are connected to community resources necessary for their fresh starts and valuable contributions to society.

To learn more about EMU’s College in Prison program, please visit their webpage. This groundbreaking initiative exemplifies the University’s commitment to educational equity and transformative opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their circumstances.

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, EMU holds the distinction of being the second oldest public university in Michigan. Serving nearly 13,000 students, it offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through various colleges. EMU is routinely recognized for its dedication to excellence and the applied nature of its education. Stay informed about EMU’s news and activities by visiting the University’s official website.