Baton Rouge Community College and the BRCC Foundation have been awarded a $252,000,
three-year grant from the Huey and Angelina Wilson Foundation to expand the Pathways
to Success Reentry Program.
With this grant, BRCC will expand education and workforce training opportunities for
incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals by offering short-term programs
that lead to industry-recognized certifications as well as a clear pathway to the
Welding Technical Diploma. These efforts will be achieved through strong collaboration
between the Adult & Corrections Education unit and other divisions within BRCC.
“We are deeply grateful to the Huey and Angelina Wilson Foundation for their support
of this reentry initiative,” BRCC Interim Executive Director for Adult & Corrections
Education Dr. Brandy Tyson said. “Their investment makes it possible to strengthen
our reentry programming and provide participants with the skills, credentials and
support needed to secure employment and reduce recidivism. Together, we are investing
in second chances, workforce development and stronger communities.”
According to the Louisiana Department of Corrections, one in three individuals returning
home from a Louisiana prison or jail will return to prison within three years of exit,
and BRCC is partnering with the Huey and Angelina Wilson Foundation to decrease this
figure.
“Technical skills are tools of transformation, restoring dignity, purpose, and hope,”
BRCC Dean of Technical Education Heather Guidry said. “By teaching a trade, we do
more than prepare individuals for jobs—we empower them to rebuild their lives and
strengthen their communities.”
BRCC educational and workforce training will enhance career readiness and job placement
opportunities for justice-involved individuals with reintegration services that promote
long-term success.