Richard J. Donovan inmates are pursuing degrees at the University of California, Irvine

Jailed students from the Prison. Richard J. Donovan, who graduated with a degree.

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) – A total of 23 incarcerated students from the John Paul II Correctional Facility. Richard J. Donovan recently completed his B.A.

According to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), their achievements are the result of a “first-of-its-kind” partnership with the University of California. Students from the San Diego area participated in classes taught in person by professors at the University of California, Irvine.

Through a program known as Harnessing an Inspiring Future through Educational Degrees (LIFTED), interns can apply to transfer to UC Irvine as juniors and earn a bachelor’s degree in sociology while completing their sentence.

The department said the initiative aims to strengthen public safety by prioritizing rehabilitation and education programs. This is because research has shown that incarcerated people who participate in correctional education are 48% less likely to return to prison within three years compared to those who did not have access to such opportunities.

“California is transforming its criminal justice system to focus on true rehabilitation, justice, and safer communities across the state – known as the California Model,” said CDCR Secretary Jeff Macomber. “This partnership with the University of California allows these graduates to build a foundation focused on pursuing educational opportunities that will prepare them for successful futures while making our communities safer.”

The first group of students participating in the program began studying faculty-led courses in fall 2022.

“This is a historic opportunity to celebrate the fact that the first 23 incarcerated students have earned bachelor’s degrees from top 10 public universities, as well as the successful partnership between two major state institutions that work together to provide a world-class public education in a state prison setting,” he said . LIFTED director and UCI professor Keramet Reiter.

Congratulations, graduates.