I never imagined that some of my most meaningful work would take place inside prison walls — not as someone serving time, but as an educator working with the Virginia Department of Corrections to expand access to college for incarcerated students.

And I can say with confidence: Virginia is getting this right.

Across the South, and especially here in the Commonwealth, we are seeing a shift in how education is viewed behind bars. Virginia has become a leader in building real academic opportunities for incarcerated individuals. Through strong coordination, strategic partnerships, and a clear commitment to rehabilitation, the department has helped create college classrooms in spaces where many never thought they would exist.

All students enrolled in our programs have already earned their GEDs. From there, students take on rigorous college-level coursework in fields ranging from business and the humanities to technical trades.

Many are the first in their families to pursue higher education. Some have struggled in school their entire lives, yet now they are writing essays, completing assignments, and giving final presentations in environments that rely entirely on paper-based materials and in-person teaching, because most facilities do not permit technology.........

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