Inside the walls of the Northeast Correctional Complex (NECX), a significant academic achievement unfolded as seventeen inmates received associate's degrees in general studies. The graduation ceremony was held last night.
NECX Warden Brian Eller highlighted the significance of the program, stating, “By providing offenders with educational opportunities like this, we’re giving them the tools they need to build successful lives once they are released.” According to a statement obtained by the Tennessee Department of Correction, the latest batch of graduates includes eleven inmates who were inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, necessitating a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Jeff McCord, President of Northeast State Community College, expressed pride in the partnership and the students' accomplishments: "We are incredibly proud of our students’ accomplishments and honored to confer their well-earned degrees." Northeast State Community College's role in this educational initiative illustrates the potential for post-secondary education to play a part in correctional facilities. With nine colleges and universities across the state partnering with the Tennessee Department of Correction, there are expanding pathways for inmates to obtain not only associate’s degrees, but also vocational certificates, bachelor’s, and even master’s degrees, as noted by the Tennessee Department of Correction.
