In a groundbreaking move toward rehabilitation and education, the State University of New York's Office of Higher Education in Prison announced it has secured a $3 million grant from Ascendium Education Group, marking the largest grant of its kind.

The influx of funds aims to amplify higher education in prison programs and offer hundreds of New Yorkers a chance to overcome their pasts. 

One remarkable success story emerging from SUNY's prison education initiative is that of Brandon Rodriguez, whose life took a dramatic turn within the confines of Ogdensburg Correctional Facility. Battling the challenges of his past, Brandon discovered redemption through education.

“I started in the law library, and I was just very interested and learned about my own case and just learned about these systems that really impact my life day to day,” shared Rodriguez, now a student at SUNY Potsdam and the founder of Second Chance Scholars.

Rodriguez was initially incarcerated for possession of an illegal substance, an illegal firearm and violating probation. He discussed his troubled past.

“I’m, like, in the streets, single-parent kind of home, you know, and I just found myself getting into trouble. I got arrested very early and, you know, it was rough,” he said.

His story echoes the broader mission of SUNY's Higher Education in Prison programs, which annually educate hundreds of incarcerated individuals. Now, with the significant Ascendium grant, the university is poised to impact more lives.

“Developing programs that really assist people on getting out. I'd like them to do more research on re-entry,” said Rodriguez, shedding light on the importance of comprehensive support. The grant not only expands programs but also addresses issues of equity within the prison education system.

Nancy Lewis, a professor at SUNY Potsdam, said, “Most students that I work with want to return to their communities and add value by helping others who are at risk for system involvement."

SUNY's expansion of the programs not only unlocks prison doors but, more importantly, unlocks futures for individuals, proving that education has the potential to break the cycle of incarceration and pave the way for a brighter future.

Rodriguez's educational journey didn't conclude with his release. It marked the commencement of a new chapter in his life. He is set to graduate this upcoming spring from SUNY Potsdam and has applied to law school, aiming to further his education.

“I've applied to law school. That's really where I'm headed to. I want to get that degree,” shared Rodriguez, showcasing the transformative power of education in unlocking futures.