Chattanooga, TN – According to the state officials, the ceremony was an inspiring moment, with fellow inmates applauding as the graduates, dressed in caps and gowns, processed from the education building across the prison yard to the gym.
Family members, staff, and community partners were in attendance to honor the accomplishments.
The event highlighted the Tennessee Department of Correction’s commitment to rehabilitation through education.
Through a collaboration with the Tennessee Higher Education Initiative, 15 inmates earned bachelor’s degrees in business from Lane College, and 12 earned associate degrees in business from Dyersburg State Community College, with all graduates achieving summa cum laude honors.
Additional educational achievements included eight vocational certificates from the Tennessee College of Applied Technology, 107 vocational certificates through NWCX’s Career Technical Education program, and 59 high school equivalency diplomas.
This graduation ceremony reflects the TDOC’s dedication to providing educational opportunities that help pave the way for a positive future for incarcerated individuals.