"When Campbell University launched its prison teaching initiative in 2019, it became the first such program in North Carolina. Modeled after the highly successful Hudson Link for Higher Education in Prison program in New York, Campbell's program began in Sampson Correctional Institution in rural Clinton, NC. The program is based on the idea that education is the best way to reduce recidivism.
The story focuses on recidivism and the connection between education and reform, but it also centers around the first class' two-year graduation ceremony for their associates degrees. Writer Billy Liggett sat in on a class via Zoom in 2020 and interviewed nine students in a separate meeting a few months before their graduation ceremony in August 2020. The story was the result of about a year of research and interviews, and we feel it goes beyond just a story about a new program."
From the Judges
A strong story covering a topic worthy of attention. In particular, the personal stories of the students make this a memorable story. Great read!
