Marymount Manhattan College selected for U.S. Dept. of Education New “Second Chance” Pell Pilot Program

This pilot program will allow individuals in our Bedford Hills College Program to receive Pell Grants. Being selected for this program is a strong endorsement of MMC’s close partnership with Bedford Hills Correctional Facility, which to date has resulted in more than 200 degrees being awarded to the women of Bedford Hills.

Through the Second Chance Pell pilot program, MMC may provide federal Pell Grants to qualified students who are incarcerated and are likely to be released within five years of enrolling in coursework.

The evidence is clear. Promoting the education and job training for incarcerated individuals makes communities safer by reducing recidivism and saves taxpayer dollars by lowering the direct and collateral costs of incarceration,” said U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King Jr. “I applaud the institutions that have partnered to develop high-quality programs that will equip these students with invaluable learning. The knowledge and skills they acquire will promote successful reintegration and enable them become active and engaged citizens.”

Read more about the program here, or check out a list of all the selected colleges here.

“Expanding educational opportunity for people who are incarcerated not only improves their lives, but strengthens our communities by preparing them to contribute to society rather than return to prison,” said Fred Patrick, director of Vera’s Center on Sentencing and Corrections. “We are thrilled that Marymount Manhattan College is a partner in this important initiative to restore and expand access to college in prison.” 

Published: June 24, 2016