October 1, 2026
MOUNT VERNON, Ga. — Brewton-Parker Christian University is pleased to announce that its Prison Education Program, led by Dr. Roger Byrd, has been awarded two grants through the Georgia Coalition for Higher Education in Prison, further strengthening the university’s commitment to providing transformative educational opportunities to incarcerated individuals.
The combined funding, totaling $21,250, will support new and expanded initiatives designed to enhance student success both during and after incarceration.
One grant, awarded in the amount of $11,250, will fund the implementation of a Higher Education in Prison Navigator position. This role will provide critical support to program participants as they transition from incarceration, offering guidance in areas such as career development, continued education, and community reintegration.
A second grant of $10,000 will be used to purchase resources that directly support students enrolled in the Prison Education Program.
In addition to these initiatives, funding will also help develop a system of laptop loaners, allowing students who have not yet graduated to remain enrolled and actively participate in coursework through BPCU’s extension campus.
Since launching its Prison Education Program in 2015, BPCU has served approximately 200 students, equipping them with the education and support needed to pursue meaningful, productive lives.
“This funding represents a significant step forward in our ability to support students beyond the classroom,” said Dr. Roger Byrd, Director of Prison Programs at BPCU. “By expanding resources and establishing the Navigator role, we are better positioned to walk alongside our students as they transition back into society and pursue long-term success.”
BPCU president, Dr. Steven Echols, expressed that BPCU is honored to have the opportunity to offer the Prison Education Program and that it aligns with the school’s Christian mission of transformation and service.”
The EnGAge initiative, administered by GACHEP, is designed to strengthen collaboration, expand programming, and enhance support systems for higher education in prison programs across Georgia.
Through these new resources and expanded support systems, BPCU remains committed to reducing barriers, promoting successful reentry, and equipping students for lifelong learning and service.
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For more information about BPCU and its Prison Education Program, visit bpc.edu or call 912-583-2241.
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