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Learn more about Oklahoma Christian at www.oc.edu.
OKLAHOMA CITY (December 7, 2021) - Incarcerated Oklahomans at the Mabel Bassett Correctional Center now have access to new in-person higher education courses, thanks to an innovative partnership between Oklahoma Christian University and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections.
Inmates participating in the degree plan will be working toward an associate of science degree with an emphasis in business. One to two courses will be offered per semester, and participants are encouraged to complete the degree plan within four years. The program, thoughtfully named the HOPE (Helping Oklahoma through Prison Education) Institute at Oklahoma Christian University, is the brainchild of Oklahoma Christian University’s Chief Academic Officer, Jeff McCormack, who says the ministry has been in the works since his joining the university.
“This program is the culmination of a hopeful dream for brighter futures for our state and a sincere desire to spark meaningful change from the heart of Oklahoma Christian University’s leadership,” said McCormack. “Oklahoma faces grave statistics for incarceration, particularly the incarceration of women, and we are hopeful this program becomes a valuable stepping stone for re-entry to society following incarceration. Our primary goal is ensuring that these students are well equipped to re-enter the workforce and have as many tools on their side as possible.”
The degree program is offered at no cost to the incarcerated individual and will not incur an expense for the Department of Corrections. Oklahoma Christian is working with the federal government to secure funds from Pell Grants. Additionally, a private donor to the university has provided support toward the program’s success.
“Ensuring that incarcerated students did not incur any type of financial burden was one of our top priorities when founding the Hope Institute,” said Oklahoma Christian University President John deSteiguer. “We are amazed by the generosity of the donor for this project, and are thrilled to be able to amplify their gift by accessing federal dollars.”
“Programs like the Hope Institute by Oklahoma Christian University are exactly the type of initiative that will make a lasting impact on Oklahoma women and families,” said Oklahoma Secretary of Public Safety Tricia Everest. “This public-private partnership will allow women to more swiftly harness valuable life skills, seek gainful employment and provide for their families. The State of Oklahoma is committed to building more of these valuable programs to ensure we give every person a solid foundation for a second chance and a promising future.”
Fourteen students are enrolled in the first course taught by Distinguished Professor of Mass Communication at Oklahoma Christian University, Philip Patterson. A vetting process is in place to determine eligibility for the program, though even inmates ineligible for parole may be candidates for the degree program. Courses composed of both inmates and current traditional Oklahoma Christian students will be held at Mabel Bassett in the visitation room under supervision.
Learn more about Oklahoma Christian at www.oc.edu.