Denmark, S.C. — Voorhees University has been selected to participate in a prestigious national research consortium focused on enhancing educational services and outcomes for incarcerated students, further solidifying the institution’s leadership in prison education. Voorhees is the only institution in South Carolina and the only Historically Black College or University (HBCU) selected to join the inaugural cohort of the Prison Education Research Initiative (PERI).
PERI is the anchor project of the newly launched Prison Education Action Research Lab (PEARL) at the University of Utah, led by Erin L. Castro, associate professor of educational leadership and policy. PEARL was established through an $8 million grant from Ascendium Education Group, a national philanthropic organization dedicated to expanding access to postsecondary education and workforce training.
The multi-institutional PERI study represents the first comprehensive, longitudinal research effort designed to collect and analyze data on prison education programs, their students, and long-term educational and workforce outcomes. The initiative brings together more than 22 colleges and universities nationwide to strengthen data-driven practices, inform public policy, and advance educational justice for incarcerated learners and their communities.
“Voorhees University’s selection for this national initiative reflects the strength of our prison education program and our long-standing commitment to access, equity, and transformative learning,” said Dr. Edward Hill, Provost and Vice President. “As the only HBCU and the sole South Carolina institution involved, Voorhees is proud to help shape the future of prison education research and practice on a national scale.”
PEARL situates prison education research squarely within the field of education, rather than solely criminology, recognizing incarcerated individuals as college students and emphasizing pedagogy, leadership, and student success. According to Castro, research shows that access to high-quality postsecondary education during incarceration strengthens families, improves public safety, and raises educational aspirations for the children of incarcerated learners.
Through PERI, Voorhees University will collaborate with researchers and practitioners to:
- Contribute institutional and student outcome data to a national research effort
- Strengthen evaluation and data capacity to better support incarcerated students and alumni
- Provide evidence-based insights to inform state and federal policy on prison education programs
- Elevate the role of HBCUs in advancing educational justice within correctional settings
The inaugural PERI cohort includes nationally recognized institutions such as Cornell University, Washington University in St. Louis, Wesleyan University, and Voorhees University—underscoring the significance of Voorhees’ inclusion among leading research and teaching institutions.
“Participation in PERI positions Voorhees University at the forefront of a growing national movement to expand opportunity and improve outcomes for incarcerated learners,” Dr. Ronnie Hopkins, President and CEO added. “This work aligns directly with our mission to prepare students for leadership and service while addressing critical societal challenges.”