MCTC celebrates EKCC graduation

Published on Aug 5, 2025

By Rachel Adkins

Maysville Community and Technical College recently recognized 21 incarcerated students at Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex (EKCC) for earning college degrees and diplomas. 

“Earning a diploma or degree is never easy. It demands time, energy, perseverance, and grit,” said Dr. Laura McCullough, CEO/president of MCTC. “But for you, our 21 graduates here today, the road has been steeper and the obstacles greater. That’s why your success is so deeply meaningful—not just to you, but to all of us.”

According to McCullough, the power of prison education is transformative for individuals, employers, and other entities. 

College-level education in prison lowers the risks of reincarceration by 40 percent or more, with some studies suggesting this is up to 66 percent.

Studies also show that a college degree can improve post-release employment, reduce prison misconduct by up to 70 percent, save taxpayer money, and help address social and racial disparities in incarceration.

With 152 incarcerated students currently being served, MCTC’s Correctional Education Program offers degrees that are aligned with workforce demands and university transfer. 

Dr. Shana Savard-Hogge, associate director of grants at MCTC, teaches business and leadership courses at EKCC. She remarked on the graduating class. 

“This graduation is a powerful reminder that learning can thrive anywhere. These students stayed committed and kept showing up,” said Savard-Hogge. 

She continued, “It’s proof of what’s possible when institutions invest in education and when people are given the chance to do more with their lives. I want to see more educational opportunities available to everyone because expanding access gives people the tools to grow, contribute, and help shape the future we share.”