Media Advisory
December 6, 2022
Media Invitation to Inmate College Graduation
Marion CI to host a graduation ceremony for inmate students earning college degrees through Ashland University
WHAT: Media are invited to attend a graduation ceremony for 31 inmates at Marion Correctional Institution who will be receiving Associate of Art degrees. Ashland University’s Executive Director of Correctional Relations, Denise Justice will provide a keynote speech to graduates and attending family members.
The graduation ceremony is held in the general visitation area of the prison. Inmates wear traditional caps and gowns as they walk across a stage to be presented with their degrees by staff and administration from both FDC and Ashland University.
Media attendees can take photographs or film throughout the event and will have an opportunity to interview consenting graduates and their families following the ceremony.
WHEN: Wednesday December 7, 2022, at 9:00 A.M. EST
Media must RSVP and should be prepared for entry at 8:45 a.m. for processing through security and equipment set up. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated.
WHY: The Florida Department of Corrections is proud to partner with Ashland University to extend high-quality educational opportunities to those incarcerated. Program participants are more likely to engage in positive, pro-social behavior while incarcerated and research shows postsecondary education can reduce recidivism, increase employability and increase wages upon release.
WHERE: Marion Correctional Institution
3269 NW 105th Street
Ocala, Florida
RSVP: Regional Communications Coordinator Nia Marie Burton
(850) 544-8101 or Nia.Burton@FDC.MyFlorida.com
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As Florida's largest state agency, and the third largest state prison system in the country, FDC employs 24,000 members, incarcerates 80,000 inmates and supervises nearly 146,000 offenders in the community.
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Inspiring success by transforming one life at a time. Visit our website at http://www.dc.state.fl.us.
