120 Inmates' Graduate Education Programs Within TDOC

HENNING, Tenn. – Last month, 120 inmates at the West Tennessee State Penitentiary and the Women’s Therapeutic Residential Center (WTRC) graduated from education and career training programs – equipping them with the essential skills and credentials needed to be productive, successful citizens upon release.

To celebrate the accomplishment, family members were invited to join faculty from Dyersburg State Community College (DSCC), Rhodes College, and the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) for graduation ceremonies held at the facilities. Memphis City Councilman J.B. Smiley, who served as a guest speaker, encouraged graduates to continue their forward momentum.

“Every certificate you earn builds your road to tomorrow,” he said. “These moments show you are capable of great things.”

During the graduation ceremonies, nine inmates earned associate's degrees from DSCC, five received liberal arts certificates from Rhodes College, and 11 completed computer science training through TCAT. Through the career and technical education programs, 13 inmates received HVAC certificates, 10 earned culinary arts certificates, nine completed carpentry training, and two earned cosmetology certificates. Finally, 31 earned high school equivalency diplomas, and another 30 completed a career exploration course.

“This isn’t just about earning a certificate,” said WTRC Warden Stanley Dickerson. “It’s about building a foundation so each graduate can return home ready to contribute positively.”

To support rehabilitation, TDOC provides Adult Basic Education, Career and Technical Education, and Post-Secondary Education, along with library services, at each of the state correctional facilities.

So far this calendar year, 86 inmates across Tennessee have earned vocational certificates through TCAT, and 81 have completed college-level programs. These achievements are central to TDOC’s mission to reduce recidivism and help individuals return to their communities prepared to lead productive lives.