Prior to my departure from Liberty University and accepting the COO position at Chancellor University, I spearheaded a pilot project to introduce online education at a state correctional facility. This was the first of its kind in Virginia. Here is the article:
By Christa Desrets
Media General News Service
Published: November 22, 2008A full-time distance learning student at Liberty University, Eric Snow pursues a degree in psychology — from prison.
As one of 29 students in a pilot LU program, he uses a combination of books, printouts and computer access to complete assignments ranging from reading to research papers.
The inmates have classes four times a week, for three hours at a time.
From laptop computers at Green Rock Correctional Center near Chatham, they connect directly to coursework on secure LU servers in Lynchburg.
“I feel really blessed that the college is investing time and money in us when most people won’t,” said Snow, who is 35 and slated for release in 2013. According to the Virginia courts system database, the Smyth County resident is serving time on drug and firearm charges.
The pilot program, OK’d by the General Assembly in the spring, is the state’s first to allow a private college to extend education into a state prison. Delegate Kathy Bryon, R-Campbell County, sponsored the legislation as a way to reduce the number of repeat offenders.
It is open to all inmates, of any religion, who are on good behavior and maintain good grades, said Gwynne Cunningham, director of specialized programs with the Department of Correctional Education.
“There have been studies galore that say that participation in higher education tends to lead to a better post-release outcome,” such as a higher-paying job, she said.
Shaun Redgate, LU lead project coordinator for the initiative, said that inmates must go through the standard application process for admission. Read the rest of this entry »