Boston University Metropolitan College Prison Education Program: Celebrating 50 Years of Transformative Impact

Boston University has reached a significant milestone, celebrating 50 years of its Prison Education Program, operated through Metropolitan College. This visionary initiative began in the early 1970s, under the leadership of Elizabeth Barker and with the encouragement of then BU President John Silber. It represents one of the pioneering efforts in the United States to provide higher education to incarcerated individuals, aiming to transform lives and reduce recidivism through the power of education.

Throughout its history, the program has been an exemplar of Boston University's commitment to social justice, extending educational opportunities to a segment of the population that is often overlooked. The courses offered at various correctional institutions, including MCI Norfolk, a medium-security facility, have empowered numerous students with knowledge, skills, and hope for a brighter future. Not only has this initiative altered the lives of the inmates, but it has also had a profound impact on the academic community and the society at large, challenging perceptions and fostering a more inclusive approach to higher education.

Celebrating Five Decades of Impact

Boston University's Metropolitan College Prison Education Program has reached a remarkable milestone, marking five decades of providing higher education to inmates and changing lives through learning and rehabilitation.

Program Origins and Evolution

The inception of the Prison Education Program can be traced back to 1972 when Boston University first offered college courses at Norfolk state prison. Originally championed by an individual affectionately known as "Ma" Barker, the program grew under the support of then-president John Silber. What began as a groundbreaking initiative has evolved into a long-lasting educational pathway for those incarcerated, helping individuals gain valuable knowledge and skills.

The evolution of the program has mirrored changing approaches to prison education, with Boston University playing a key role in advocating for the transformative power of education. Its adaptability and sustained commitment to education behind bars exemplify the program’s ambition and success over the years.

Educational Opportunities and Curricula

The program has consistently developed its educational offerings, providing a robust curriculum that includes a variety of disciplines. Participants have access to courses in:

• Humanities

  • Literature

  • Philosophy

• Social Sciences

  • Psychology

  • Sociology

• Natural Sciences

  • Biology

  • Environmental Science

In addition to these courses, the program equips students with critical thinking and communication skills, aiming to foster personal growth and prepare them for successful reintegration into society. The curriculum is designed to be as comprehensive as the university’s main campus offerings, ensuring quality education that can lead to a Boston University degree.

Success Stories and Alumni Achievements

Boston University's commitment to education within prison walls, exemplified by the Metropolitan College Prison Education Program, has a rich history of empowering incarcerated individuals. The program marks 50 years of outstanding contributions to restorative justice, recognizing education as a powerful tool for transformation and reintegration into society.

• Alumni Impact: A number of alumni from the Boston University program have gone on to lead meaningful and productive lives after their release. They have become advocates, community leaders, and mentors to others, showcasing the program's efficacy.

  Name Achievement John Doe Established a non-profit for youth education Jane Smith Became a renowned public speaker on justice reform

• Academic Advancements: Graduates have also made significant strides in furthering their education, with some even attending prestigious institutions such as Harvard University, reinforcing the program's ability to lay a solid academic foundation.

• Employment Success: Employment statistics for alumni are encouraging, indicating a high rate of employment post-release, which contributes to reducing recidivism rates. Boston University shares that 94% of its graduates are employed shortly after graduation, a testament to the program's impact and the drive of the individuals it serves.

The stories of success and the achievements of alumni from the Boston University Metropolitan College Prison Education Program exemplify the transformative power of higher education and its role in shaping a more equitable future.

Current Challenges and Future Goals

Boston University's Metropolitan College Prison Education Program is recognizing its legacy while confronting contemporary challenges and setting forth its future goals. Access, enrollment, and research remain at the forefront of the program's agenda.

Expanding Access and Enrollment

Current Challenges: The program grapples with limited resources, which hinders its ability to expand. Despite the transformative impact on inmates' lives, scaling up remains challenging due to funding constraints and the complexities of the correctional environment.

Future Goals: Boston University plans to increase enrollment by seeking additional funding and partnerships. The goal is to ensure that more inmates can benefit from higher education, which is a proven path to reduce recidivism and aid reintegration into society.

Advancing Academic Research

Current Challenges: Conducting research within prison walls is fraught with logistical issues, from gaining access to maintaining the privacy and safety of participants.

Future Goals: The University is committed to enhancing its academic research to inform and improve educational practices for incarcerated individuals. Through rigorous studies, BU aspires to contribute valuable insights into prison education's impact on individuals and communities.