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We invite you to join the Virginia Consensus for Higher Education in Prison, whether you are an individual, public official, institution, business, or organization. It’s a simple step, with tremendous impact. You’ll receive our monthly newsletter with news updates, inspiring stories, resources, and learn about what Consensus partners are working on.
While conducting more than one hundred conversations with Virginians across a range of sectors, we’ve identified some key themes:
Support Postsecondary Education for Justice-Impacted Individuals
They support broad access to higher education programs that offer incarcerated and returning Virginians a second chance to contribute to society at their full potential.
Center Virginia’s Needs and Resources
They desire a sustainable, Virginia-specific framework that maximizes the benefits of postsecondary education for incarcerated and returning Virginians and the Commonwealth, broadly.
Collaborate as a Means of Civic Innovation
They recognize a diverse community of stakeholders, whose collective success will require engaging in dialogue, sharing resources, and contributing unique expertise and perspectives.
Invest in Long-Term Social and Economic Impact
They value the common good of all Virginians—aspiring to interrupt generational cycles of poverty and incarceration, to promote meaningful work opportunities, and increase public safety with efficient use of public resources.
Begin with Employment in Mind
They recognize the importance of building a pipeline from college degrees and credential programs to meaningful careers. The early collaboration and public visibility of Second Chance employers will be essential to building a strong pipeline.
Adopt Evidence-Based Approaches
They embrace a well-researched approach that prioritizes rehabilitation through postsecondary education and informed alignment of programs with labor markets.