The New England Prison Education Collaborative is a five-year initiative of the New England Board of Higher Education; this initiative is funded by Ascendium Education Group to implement the recommendations of the 2023 New England Commission on the Future of Higher Education in Prison.

A key aspect of NEPEC’s work is increasing overall higher education institution readiness to improve student access and success upon release through resource development and sub-granting. In addition to the Accelerator Grant funding, NEPEC provides institutions with project implementation support, data research and coordination to ensure the sustainability of programs.

“Quinnipiac is honored to receive this grant,” said Provost Debra Liebowitz. “It recognizes the innovative, collaborative work of our Prison Education and Community Engagement program, which advances community-informed solutions and reflects our mission to foster engaged citizenship and contribute to the public good.”

The project will lay the groundwork for exploring ways to expand Quinnipiac’s prison education initiatives into a full degree-granting pathway. In partnership with community and correctional stakeholders, the program will examine the systems, staffing and structures needed for Quinnipiac to become a Pell-eligible, degree-conferring provider of higher education in prison.

Quinnipiac is considering creating a baccalaureate program at a correctional facility that currently lacks any four-year college option, while also building strong reentry supports to help students transition successfully after incarceration.

Amber Kelly, professor of social work at Quinnipiac, is leading the effort.

“This grant empowers us to extend Quinnipiac’s mission beyond our campus borders,” Kelly said. “By bringing education inside the prison walls, we’re not just offering classes, we’re supporting dignity, opportunity and second chances. Education can be a powerful tool for reducing recidivism and strengthening communities, and Quinnipiac is proud to leverage our quality educational programming for those rebuilding their lives for a better future and society.”

The announcement comes at a pivotal moment. Pell Grant eligibility for incarcerated students was reinstated in 2023, creating new pathways to higher education inside prisons. Research shows incarcerated people who participate in postsecondary education are significantly less likely to reoffend, and that these programming opportunities provide benefits that ripple outward to families and communities.

University officials note how Quinnipiac’s selection for the competitive NEPEC grant underscores its commitment to making education innovative and inclusive. It also positions the university as a regional leader in an area of higher education that is gaining national momentum.