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Calvin Prison Initiative seen as national model for prison education
In late August, leaders of the U.S. Department of Education visited the Calvin Prison Initiative. Four hours later, they left inspired not just by stories of transformation, but by the strategic, thoughtful collaboration that is making CPI a national model to follow for prison education. September 1,2022 -
U.S. Department of Education leaders to visit Calvin Prison Initiative program
On August 30, James Kvaal, Under Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, is coming to west Michigan to see how Second Chance Pell grants have impacted the Calvin Prison Initiative program. This is Kvaal's first prison first as Under Secretary. August 26,2022 -
Calvin welcomes more than 1,000 incoming students and most diverse class in university history
This fall, more than 1,000 incoming students begin their pursuit of an undergraduate or graduate degree at Calvin University. The entering class shows academic strength and is record-setting in terms of ethnic and geographic diversity. August 23,2022 -
Calvin University Builds Momentum
Since Calvin changed its last name from "college" to "university" in 2019, the institution has established two new schools, added six graduate programs, set fundraising records, and become the first university in MIchigan to award bachelor's degrees behind bars. July 22,2022 -
Calvin Remembers James Martrice Brown
A week after receiving his bachelor's degree inside Handlon Correctional Facility, James Martrice Brown suffered a stroke and died three days later. He's remembered by his classmates and professors as someone who was always looking out for others. June 3,2022 -
Walking into a new identity
On Monday, May 9, 2022, Calvin University awarded degrees to 76 inmates in a grand celebration in Ionia, Michigan. It marked the first time in the state of Michigan that bachelor's degrees were awarded behind bars. May 10,2022 -
Calvin University holds graduation ceremony behind bars
On Monday, May 9, 2022, 45 inmates will receive a bachelor's degree from Calvin University as part of a formal Commencement ceremony held inside Handlon Correctional Facility. This marks a first for the state of Michigan. May 4,2022 -
An unimaginable adoption story born out of tragedy
Valmarcus Jones and Jerline Riley grew up in the same neighborhood. Their worlds collided in 1994 with tragic consequences. The way they have reunited is an unimaginable and beautiful story of redemption. April 21,2022 -
I'll be home for Christmas
For the first time in 36 years, Ron Hammond, a student in the Calvin Prison Initiative program, will spend Christmas outside prison walls. December 24,2021 -
When the numbers begin to fade
Since 2002, the Jubilee Fellows Program has helped Calvin University students discern a call to pastoral ministry. Now, that program extends to students at Handlon Correctional Facility. November 24,2021