We are committed to supporting the field of higher education in prison by advocating for open-access to the resources, tools and training necessary for programs and individuals to succeed.
Through the lens of equity and quality, the Alliance seeks to collect data and publish research about the expanding field of higher education in prison. By acting as an information-sharing network, and providing open-access resources about higher education in prison programs, the Alliance aims to improve student access to in-prison and post-incarceration educational opportunities.
Equity and Excellence in Practice: A Guide for Higher Education in Prison provides a clear and specific summary of some of the most essential components of high-quality in-prison higher education programs. The report outlines the attributes of programs that uphold a commitment to equity, excellence and access. While each prison setting is unique, the recommendations in the report are intended to be applied to the field of higher education generally.
In 2016, Hudson Link for Higher Education in Prison and the Saint Louis University Prison Program spearheaded a yearlong planning process to investigate the need for and purpose of a national organization for higher education in prison. Throughout the process, a steering committee gathered input from a broad range of stakeholders and key partners. The focus groups, planning sessions and community surveys helped form the foundation of the network, including the mission, vision, values and purpose.
This annual gathering brings together people from around the United States working to expand the quality higher education in prison. More than just an annual opportunity to convene with colleagues from the field, the National Conference on Higher Education in Prison (NCHEP) is a place for people to feel heard, supported and inspired.
Are you looking for examples to support the launch or growth of your own program? The National Directory includes a Document Library populated with administrative documents submitted by higher education in prison programs.
The documents currently available are: Admissions Application, By Laws, Curriculum, Faculty Handbook, FAFSA, Memorandum of Understanding, Organizational Chart, Re-entry Guide, Staff Handbook, Strategic Plan, Student Handbook, Volunteer Handbook.
The Alliance for Higher Education in Prison’s Annual Report introduces you to our mission, goals, values, and everyday work. We’ll also orient you to our projects, people, and partners, giving an overview of our work and major activities during each fiscal year.