Associated Colleges of the Midwest awards grant funding to the Coe College Prison Learning Initiative
Coe College’s Prison Learning Initiative (PLI) was awarded a grant from the Associated Colleg
es of the Midwest (ACM). The grant funding is part of an effort to foster the development and execution of innovative community-based learning initiatives.
Through the PLI, students and community members examine the criminal justice system and gain a deeper understanding of incarceration, reentry challenges and how to build a more supportive environment. According to the ACM, the majority of the funding for the grant comes from the Chicago-based Spencer Foundation, which invests in education research that has the potential to improve society. The ACM contributed additional money to ensure a larger number of proposals received funding.
“Liberal arts students often crave opportunities to see how their classroom learning relates to what goes on beyond the boundaries of their campuses,” said Lisa Jasinski, the president of the Associated Colleges of the Midwest. “We are proud to support worthy projects that empower students to both deepen their learning and use their knowledge to uplift their local communities.”
This additional funding will allow PLI to continue and expand its vital work — educating, engaging and creating positive change. The initiative recognizes the far-reaching impacts of mass incarceration and is committed to reducing its long-term harms. By increasing understanding and fostering welcoming communities, the initiative helps ease the transition for those leaving prison and creates a safer society for all.
Events PLI opens to the community include a reentry simulation which mimics the processes and hurdles those formerly incarcerated face upon release and ArtLinks which encourages communication with incarcerated individuals through artwork by incarcerated artists.
John William King Professor of Literature and Creative Writing and the Director of the Prison Learning Initiative, Gina Hausknecht shared, "This grant funding propels our Prison Learning Initiative to deepen our engagement with the community. I eagerly anticipate the new partnerships and hands-on learning experiences it will foster on our campus."
Coe College offers superb academics and exciting extracurricular activities in a thriving urban setting that promotes student growth and success. Established in 1851, Coe has a national reputation for academic excellence enhanced by a student-centered, highly supportive campus environment. Coe’s vibrant Cedar Rapids location provides an abundance of internships for students and career opportunities for graduates.