Educational Milestone Achieved by Incarcerated Women at Maryland Correctional Institution for Women

December 15, 2023

Contact: mark.vernarelli@maryland.gov , latoya.gray@maryland.gov

[JESSUP, MD] - Maryland Lt. Governor Aruna Miller, in collaboration with Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Secretary Carolyn J. Scruggs, visited the Maryland Correctional Institution for Women on December 11th to extend heartfelt congratulations to eleven incarcerated or previously incarcerated women who recently achieved a remarkable milestone by earning their General Education Development (GED) certificates.

"It was an honor to attend the GED celebration at the Maryland Correctional Institution for Women and tour the programs designed to better prepare incarcerated Marylanders to successfully reenter their communities," said Lt. Governor Miller. "Both educational and trade programs in correctional institutions are critical to reducing recidivism and enriching people with the tools needed to contribute to the fabric of society. I am grateful to Secretary Scruggs and the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services for continuing these opportunities that help play a critical role in the Moore-Miller administration's all-of-the-above approach to public safety."

This achievement holds particular significance as it marks the first GED graduating class at the facility since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of the graduating women dedicated years to their educational pursuits, showcasing their unwavering commitment to personal growth and development.

The Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services and its partner, the Department of Labor Correctional Education, are steadfast in providing incarcerated individuals with meaningful opportunities for improvement, with the ultimate goal of facilitating successful reintegration upon their return to society.

Together, these agencies offer an extensive array of programs, including nearly two dozen trade skill training initiatives, GED classes, and opportunities for pursuing college degrees through partnerships with five institutions of higher learning.

Lt. Governor Miller's visit to the Maryland Correctional Institution for Women reflects the Moore-Miller Administration's commitment to tackling public safety from all angles - including reducing recidivism. Lt. Governor Miller previously visited 'Second Chances Horse Farm,' a reentry program offered in partnership between Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services and the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation.

For media inquiries, please contact: mark.vernarelli@maryland.gov , latoya.gray@maryland.gov