MARCHING FORWARD
By Kenneth R. Brydon On June 19, 2008, the entire class for the six recipients of education department was the Patten University Associate closed to in order to allow the of Arts degree. The college staff to attend a graduation crer- here at San Quentin is operated mony in the Garden Chapel. without any taxpayer support. Those who had spent their time A long list of volunteers from and efforts in improving their all walks of life make up the own lives, were recognized by faculty of the "Prison Univerthe San Quentin administration sity Project" ("PUP"). Jody for their hard work accom- Lewen and Jennifer Scaife are plished in attainting diplomas in the PUP coordinators. Of particular note in this the areas of GED, vocations, Associate of Arts and Bachelor years graduation is Vince Russo. Russo completed reof Art. All who came to the podium quirements for his bachelor's were loudly applauded for their degree through Ohio Univeraccomplishments. Depending sity. After finishing his AA upon their individual accomplishments, they were handed their diplomas by those who had seen them through. Many families were in attendance. Loud shouts erupted from the various areas where particular members were seated, but everyone was applauded loudly. Vince Russo, Michael Carter Steve Welch completed & his graduation from MaMarvin Mitchell chine Shop, actually requesting that his parole (on degree, Russo then began his graduation day) come in the studies to complete the more evening so that he could attend advanced degree in January the ceremony. Eleven individu- 2005. Cookies and refreshments als were handed their Vocation certificates by Vice Principle of followed the ceremony, and the proud families were able to Vocations, William Reeves. Marvin Mitchell was the vale- have photos taken together. dictorian of the 34 inmates in Many who spoke to the audiattendance who received their ence told of their journey, and General Education Diploma how it gave them motivation to keep moving forward, and for ("GED"). Mitchell received the setting higher goals for their highest scores of those who had lives. To each and every one, been tested this past year. Cer- much kudos are deserved; furtificates were handed out by ther recognition of the compleChris Wittick and Phil Leonida. tion of even higher educational Michael Carter was valedicto- goals is expected of those who rian for the 2008 graduating remain here.

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