More than 2 dozen incarcerated women receive high school and college diplomas

McLOUD, OKLA. – There is an undeniable sense of pride and accomplishment on the Mabel Bassett prison yard.

“It’s the best part of graduation,” ODOC teacher Rachele Lowry said.

Today, nearly 30 incarcerated women are receiving a high school or college diploma.

The graduation ceremony was attended by several dozen dignitaries, friends and family.

‘It’s cool,” Valedictorian Aiyanna Alvarado said. “I’m excited for all these women to move forward with their education.”

Commencement speaker, Nina Webb, is a shining example of success. She was formerly incarcerated here and now holds multiple college degrees.

“It isn’t supposed to be easy,” Webb shared with the graduates. “If it was easy, the whole yard would be sitting with you here today. You are the ones who put in the time to make today happen.”

For some, graduation day is the culmination of years of hard work.

“Eleven years,” graduate Erica Bonner said. “Slow and steady leads the race and I made it.”

Mabel Bassett College Coordinator Jami Chambers believes these women will inspire others to follow in their footsteps and further their education.

‘If you are not willing to learn, there is nothing anyone can do to help you learn,” quoting author Zig Ziglar, Chambers added, “If you are determined to learn, no one can stop you.”

Prison educational opportunities are made possible through community support, grants and sponsorships.

Former Congressman JC Watts is personally helping two incarcerated women earn their college degrees.

“It’s really inspiring to see it all come to fruition,” Watts said. “To see them move that tassel is pretty special.”