Hudson Link for Higher Education in Prison Celebrates Graduates at Shawangunk Correctional Facility Commencement Ceremony in Partnership with Mount St. Mary’s University

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On June 17, Hudson Link for Higher Education in Prison, in collaboration with Mount St. Mary’s University (MSMC), proudly celebrated the graduation of nine incarcerated students at the Shawangunk Correctional Facility. This ceremony marks not only an academic milestone for these resilient scholars but also a significant step towards illustrating the impact of prison education.

The event was highlighted by the inspiring words of Fr. Gregoire Fluet, Vice President of Mission and Ministry at Mount St. Mary’s University. "My colleagues and I are excited to celebrate the upcoming graduation of our Hudson Link students," Fr. Fluet stated. "Since MSMC joined this partnership in 2020, the program has grown tremendously; there are currently more than 40 students working toward their Bachelor of Arts degrees at the Mount. The college recognizes service to the community as a vital part of our mission, and we are thrilled to welcome these students as Mount alumni who are equipped to continue this tradition of service."

The graduates expressed profound gratitude for the impact the program has had on their lives. Ian R., a student speaker at the ceremony, articulated the collective journey of the graduates, stating, "The passion of these educators was 'contagious' in a marvelous way, which helped us find our own true voices that would resonate not only in Shawangunk, but also in the many places we shall go to influence others. I leave with a vision to tear down walls of ignorance and prejudices that have hindered many from finding their life calling. I want to encourage others to dare to step out of darkness and into the light, to explore the many opportunities that become available when we choose to apply the power of education into our lives."

The ceremony also featured guest speaker Steve Zeidman, Professor of Law at CUNY Law, who reinforced the significance of this academic achievement with a powerful metaphor. "As the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu says: 'The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step'," Zeidman shared. "And graduates, you’ve taken that first step with this degree – with many more impactful steps to come in your own personal journeys."

Sean Pica, President of Hudson Link, celebrated the achievements of the graduates, highlighting the organization's commitment to providing educational opportunities to those affected by the legal system. "Our mission is to empower individuals through education, while fostering a sense of hope where it may have seemed lost. These graduates are proof of what’s possible when you give someone a chance to better their circumstances, and we are proud to support their journeys."

The partnership between Hudson Link and Mount St. Mary’s University represents a beacon of hope, showcasing the resilience and potential of individuals seeking to reinvent their futures. As these graduates embark on the next chapter of their lives, they carry with them the knowledge and skills to effect change - not only in their own lives but also within their communities.

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