In a significant milestone for California’s correctional education programs, the California Institution for Women celebrated its first graduating class in partnership with Cal State LA. Governor Gavin Newsom announced today the graduation of 22 incarcerated women who have earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in Liberal Studies. According to a press release from the Governor's office, this marks a pivotal moment showcasing California's commitment to rehabilitation over incarceration.
“Higher education is key to the transformation and growth that we see today from many of the students graduating. I’m proud to see them taking a step in the right direction to contribute positively to our society,” Governor Newsom remarked on the accomplishments of the newly minted graduates. The program allowed students to complete up to four courses per semester over two years, to prepare them for their post-incarceration careers. Promising to equip them, each student exits the program with a LinkedIn profile and a career portfolio, according to the Governor's statement.
California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) Secretary Jeff Macomber also celebrated the momentous occasion. “Today’s milestone reflects the power of education to transform lives. These graduates have demonstrated a true commitment to building a better future,” Sec. Macomber told the Governor’s office. Echoing the sentiment, he further emphasized the importance of education in promoting not only personal growth but also safer communities throughout California.
The faculty and tutors involved in the initiative have undergone a specialized yearlong training program that tailors curricula to meet the professional demands of the workplace. As expressed by sports icon and Cal State LA alumna Billie Jean King, during a commencement speech, “Never stop learning and never stop learning how to learn. Be a problem solver and an innovator. Only you graduates understand what it took to earn this degree. This can be a turning point – use your new platform, live your new future. Today is your day. Keep believing in yourself, keep dreaming and keep going for it," all participants at the ceremony were encouraged by the legendary athlete.
The collaboration between CDCR and Cal State LA has been ongoing for nearly a decade and has altered the lives of over 118 individuals so far. The initiative continues to expand its impact and is expected to include a total of 139 students across three prisons in the 2025-26 school year. This is part of California's broader initiative providing college education to the incarcerated population, with over 13.5% of inmates currently enrolled in post-secondary education, as detailed on the Governor's website.
Supporting this educational venture is a body of research indicating substantial benefits. For every dollar invested in rehabilitation programs, more than four dollars are saved on re-incarceration costs. Moreover, educational programs for the incarcerated reduce the likelihood of re-offending by nearly half over three years. Victims' advocates also overwhelmingly support approaches that integrate transformative programming, like the educational efforts highlighted by Governor Newsom, as a means to reduce recidivism.
