The Bard Prison Initiative (BPI) held its 11th commencement at the Woodbourne Correctional Facility in Woodbourne, New York, on Saturday, May 31. BPI awarded associate in arts degrees to 36 students. The commencement speaker was Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney, D–New York, who was honored with Bard College’s John Dewey Award for Distinguished Public Service. Additional remarks were provided by Bishop Andrew M. L. Dietsche, the 16th bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of New York, and Bard College President Leon Botstein.

Above is a postcard from the commencement ceremony. These thirty six graduates – and all of their accomplishments – are symbolic of what is possible in America if we invest in people, believe in their capacity, and create opportunities that dignify their desire for change.

This year has been an extraordinary one for BPI. The effort to restore meaningful educational opportunities in American prisons has momentum like never before. As more and more people join the fight, BPI continues to lead in two important ways: by example and by spreading the word.

Originally posted on The Bard Prison Initiative website

More info @ The Bard Prison Initiative