“Win and Help Win” is painted in large letters on the wall of the gymnasium at Haynesville Correctional Center (HCC).
This message was reinforced as family, friends, supporters, staff, educators and dignitaries gathered in November to celebrate the graduates from Rappahannock Community College (RCC) and HCC.
Eleven inmates earned an associate of arts and sciences, seven received a general studies certificate and 23 achieved a high school equivalency (GED).
Attending college while incarcerated presents many challenges, noted Warden Tony Darden who addressed the graduates. “I see you. Know that we are proud of you for staying positive, stepping up and winning. When one wins, we all win,” he said.
Virginia Community College System (VCCS) Chancellor Dr. David Doré emphasized the commitment of the VCCS to work with the Virginia Department of Corrections (DOC). “You are proof that obstacles and mistakes don’t define you….
