- Thirty-four inmates graduated from Salt Lake Community College's Prison Education Program.
- Graduates earned associate's degrees in fields like anthropology and business at the Utah State Correctional Facility.
- Inmate Pailate Lomu, released soon, called the degree a life-rebuilding step.
SALT LAKE CITY — Thirty‑four incarcerated men and women at the Utah State Prison became college graduates this week, marking one of the largest commencement ceremonies ever held inside the facility.
The students, all participants in Salt Lake Community College's Prison Education Program, received associate degrees in fields ranging from anthropology and business to humanities and general studies.
The ceremony, complete with caps, gowns and the traditional strains of "Pomp and Circumstance," drew applause that echoed through the prison gym — a sound rarely heard within its walls.
"It was indescribable, filled with joy and hope," one graduate said as the Class of 2026 was introduced.
For many students, the moment represented more than academic achievement. It marked a turning point in the lives of those shaped by long sentences and limited opportunity.
Pailate Lomu, incarcerated for 16 years, described the day as a hard‑earned triumph.
"I'm grateful for this opportunity," he said. "SLCC's changed the man that I am."
Another graduate, serving a 15‑to‑life sentence, reflected on the personal transformation the program sparked.
The Prison Education Program has grown into one of the nation's largest in‑person prison education models, with more than 40 SLCC faculty members teaching inside the Utah State Correctional Facility. Over 150 incarcerated students participated in classes this past year.
For Lomu, the day carried profound personal meaning.
"I'm the first one in my family that's graduated high school with honors and a college degree," he said.
His wife, Mishella, attended the ceremony. "We've been waiting for this day for a long time, and he's been working extremely hard," she said.
Lomu also shared unexpected news: After 16 years behind bars, he has been granted a release date.
"I actually just saw the board a couple weeks ago. I get out before Christmas."
Now 36, Lomu entered prison at age 20. His degree, he said, is the first step toward rebuilding his life.
Program leaders and state officials emphasized the broader societal impact of prison education. Rebecca Brown, a program administrator, noted, "Higher education is one of the most critical points to a successful reentry for individuals."
State Sen. Derrin Owens, R-Fountain Green, who attended the ceremony, praised the graduates' commitment.
"They've invested in themselves and put the time in, and it's inspiring to hear their speeches," he said.
Christopher Bradbury, director of prison education, called the event a testament to perseverance. "This is the culmination of a lot of hard work by the students," he said.
Graduate Alana Duncan, who never attended college before incarceration, called the achievement life‑changing.
"It might seem small to some people, but for others, like me, I never went to college out there."
The SLCC Prison Education Program is funded in part through Second Chance Pell Grants, which allow incarcerated students to use federal financial aid. A 2+2 pathway with the University of Utah enables graduates to continue toward a bachelor's degree.
Research shows the benefits extend far beyond the prison walls:
- Reduced recidivism — An Emory University study found that earning an associate's degree reduces recidivism by 84%.
- Taxpayer savings — RAND estimates that every $1 invested in prison education saves $4 in reincarceration costs.
- Breaking cycles — Parents who earn degrees are more likely to inspire educational achievement in their children.
- Employment gains — Graduates reenter society with stronger job prospects.
As the ceremony concluded, applause rose again — a final ovation for students who earned their degrees under circumstances few college graduates ever face.
