Florida Coalition for Higher Education in Prison
An initiative of the University of Central Florida, the Florida Coalition for Higher Education in Prison is a statewide network of organizations that provide high quality educational pathways to incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people. Committed to working for diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice; FCHEP unites stakeholders, including higher education institutions, non-profit organizations, and correctional facilities, to enhance access to a liberal arts higher education and promote social justice.
This project aims to grow a statewide consortium–the Florida Coalition for Higher Education in Prison–dedicated to bringing together universities, colleges, non-profit organizations, and correctional institutions to create a unified network that supports educational pathways for people from incarceration to reintegration. The Florida Coalition for Higher Education in Prison (FCHEP) will leverage the expertise of its members to deliver transformative credentialed learning experiences, promote social justice and equity, build community and support re-entry, and influence public policy.
Mission and Values
It enshrines UCF as a beacon of hope in Florida when it comes to higher education in prison while expanding the current programs that currently exist at UCF. It builds off the UCF Creed to ensure that scholarship, community, creativity, excellence, and integrity are brought to members of the community who may not have the ability to attend college due to the carceral landscape.
Expected Outcomes and Deliverables
- Establish a Statewide Consortium: Create a network of higher education institutions, non-profit organizations, and correctional facilities dedicated to providing educational opportunities and support services for incarcerated individuals and returning citizens.
- Ensure Access to Higher Education: Develop and implement educational pathways and promote high-quality educational programs that are accessible to incarcerated individuals and system-impacted people throughout the state of Florida.
- Promote Social Justice: Support the reintegration of incarcerated individuals through education, contributing to reduced recidivism and more just and equitable communities.