A Lifeline Through Learning: Testimonies from Virginians Who are Incarcerated
In Virginia’s prisons, higher education is more than just earning credits or degrees, it can be a lifeline. For many, it’s a source of stability, confidence and renewed purpose. Yet despite the proven benefits, access remains out of reach for most. Approximately 67% of people in Virginia prisons are academically eligible for college. Yet, from this pool of over 14,000, only about 600 a year secure college slots.
Below, we have gathered firsthand testimonials from individuals who are incarcerated, offering a glimpse into their aspirations and challenges. These anonymized personal accounts emphasize why expanding educational opportunities behind bars is not only beneficial, but also essential for fostering personal growth, reducing recidivism, strengthening families and building safer, more resilient communities.
Providing Purpose and a Future
For many incarcerated individuals, higher education offers more than academic knowledge – it provides a renewed sense of purpose, self-worth and hope for the future. These stories show how access to college courses can inspire personal growth, strengthen family bonds and open doors to meaningful careers after release.
“The [name] Community College classes offered here at [my facility] have been a blessing to me. I started taking the classes so I would be able to help my daughter through any level of education that she may want to pursue… These classes have helped me to see education and my future differently. I have much more potential and want to pursue my bachelor's in business so I will be prepared to start my own HVAC company in the future.” - D---s
“I am on the waiting list for [name] Community College enrollment next spring. The sense of pride that that gives me to just make that statement is one that I thought was unattainable. And I know that others incarcerated in other facilities would feel the same way, given the chance. A lot of us on the inside need positive and progressive things to help us to continue to grow as people, so that we can give ourselves a chance to be successful.” - C---s
“My education was at a time when education, programming and vocational trades were pursued with an eagerness that would add to the individual character of the person incarcerated, as well as the intellect needed to be a productive person in prison and in the society we all are striving to be a part of.
It’s my opinion that the introduction of higher education in the Virginia Department of Corrections would not only provide the educational nourishment needed but increase the sense of and worthwhile accomplishment that can never be taken away.” - A---o
Demonstrating the Need for More Resources and Higher Ed Programming
The voices of those directly impacted reveal the gap between interest and opportunity. Despite recent progress, such as the return of Pell Grants, many incarcerated individuals remain unable to pursue higher education due to limited course offerings and persistent financial barriers.
“I would like to further my education but had no funds to do so until the recent Pell Grants that are now available. I am able to afford [classes] now but [my correctional facility] doesn’t offer them. I would like to study business, accounting, Bible studies and own my own business one day.” - M---t
“I have educated myself and have a G.E.D. along with several certifications in different fields. I have never been able to attend college due to lack of funds. Today, even with Pell Grants, I can’t afford college and college courses are not offered at most prisons. I would like to study accounting and business. -- M---l
We know firsthand that education transforms lives – but only if the opportunity exists. Join Virginia Consensus for Higher Education in Prison to help expand access, break down barriers and create brighter futures for incarcerated Virginians.