More than 200 Inmates Graduate Programs in Central Mississippi

Inmates in Mississippi have been successfully completing educational and vocational programs while incarcerated.

Female inmates graduating from educational and vocational programs.Photo byMississippi Department of Corrections

According to a press release from Mississippi Department of Corrections, more than 200 inmates from both the Central Mississippi Corrections Facility and the Mississippi Correctional Institute for Women completed programs last week and celebrated with a graduation ceremony.

The Vocational Academy and Re-Entry Academy held separate ceremonies celebrating men and women who completed their courses.

The vocations that inmates can choose to study include metal working, construction trades, computers and coding, culinary arts, and numerous others. The Re-Entry Academy assists inmates in learning skills that will help them re-assimilate into society upon release, dealing with practical, everyday life experiences. Some inmates have completed multiple programs and received more than one certificate.

According to the press release, Deputy Commissioner Kelley Christopher spoke at the men's graduation ceremony. Christopher, who supervises the education and re-entry courses, spoke to the graduates about the future, and proving those who might not be supportive wrong. He said, "They don’t expect you to succeed. Use that as your driving force to succeed. You have me and other people in this room who believe in you and we know that you can be successful. Show them who you really are."