California Institution for Men (CIM) staff and guests saw 55 students graduate education programs.
Families, friends, and community partners attended the late-December ceremony.
Warden Travis Pennington congratulated the graduates and welcomed guests.
“I’m proud of you,” he said.
Acknowledging their hard work, he also encouraged them to continue to pursue other educational opportunities.
Watch the video (story continues below):
Dr. Harry Obiako, CIM Supervisor of Correctional Education Programs, also congratulated the graduates, sharing an inspirational message and words of wisdom.
He said the school, along with their college professor, have done their best in guiding them to discover their true identities. The hope is such self-discovery will help them find their place in the world.
He also reminded graduates to think about what matters in life, such as family, how they conduct their affairs, their health, and personal wellbeing. Ultimately, he said, the graduates should always think about their place in the society as they rejoin their various communities.
Jason Bell, Director of Project Rebound from San Francisco State University, offered words of encouragement and inspiration.
“I come to you as an adjunct professor in criminology, sociology and, at times, counseling, but more importantly, all that comes after I was sentenced to 17 years in prison,” Bell told the graduates. “I started my journey through education in the California prison system.”
He explained there is life after incarceration. Bell also encouraged them to use support systems in place to make their education journeys easier.
“You don’t have to do this alone,” he said.
Three graduates were among the speakers, sharing their educational experiences. They took time to thank their teachers and other stakeholders who helped them along the way.
Story by Dr. Harry Obiako, Supervisor of Correctional Education Programs
Photos and video by Ryan Herrera, Television Specialist
Submitted by Lt. Ignacio Vera
55 graduate CIM education programs in photos
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