“Achieving the Vision” was more than the theme of the 2010 graduation ceremony at San Quentin State Prison. It was a message of hope and confidence that improvement was possible for these incarcerated students of academia.
This triumph signified optimism in the future of men who graduated from various vocational trade programs still available in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, in addition to the Robert E. Burton GED (General Education Development high school equivalency) program, and the Patten University Associate of Arts degree program.
Acting Warden Vincent Cullen opened the ceremony by acknowledging the loss of valuable personnel within the Educational Department due to budget cuts. Cullen emphasized the importance of the volunteers who entered the prison committed to continue San Quentin’s unique educational programs for prisoners.
Cullen ended his inspirational speech to the graduates and their families by declaring, “The last thing I want to say about this event…As the men’s names are announced…watch the reaction of the family members as they receive them…It’s worth the price of admission, because to me, it’s the brightest moment in the 365 days that we are in this institution.”
GED valedictorian, Johnny B. Tarver, at 40 years old and incarcerated for 20 years, appeared uncomfortable as he truly energized the audience with his educational experience. Tarver thanked his mother and daughter for support and gave special thanks to Jennifer Scaife “because without her I literally, really, would not be standing here today.”
“There’s something about being in a cap and gown that separates you all and says, ‘I am better than the worse thing that I have ever done,’” said Sujatha Baliga of Restorative Justice and Victims Offender Education Group (V.O.E.G.). “Because your story is now about transcendence, and you men have done that here.”
PROUD OF HIM
Lakisha Canada offered her comments to the San Quentin News about her husband Chris Canada’s graduation.
“I’m very proud of him and to see him go to school, that’s great. He could have just sat in here and done nothing,” Lakisha said. “But he used his time in prison wisely; this is just the start for him.”
Ernest Hill, a lifer, stated, “I’ve been incarcerated since 1989 and I began my time at Pelican Bay. I was in school there but because of all the lockdowns I never could go. But it’s different here,” Hill said. “Getting my GED showed me that we can do anything when we put our minds to it.”
Efraim Suarez realized he had to improve his English to receive his GED. English being his second language inspired Suarez to show other Mexicanos that they can make a difference, even if they are sent back to Mexico. “Education is so powerful,” Suarez said. “At first it was really difficult but my cell mate really pushed me and he is a really good example. Suarez’s cell mate went through the same process and is currently attending Patten University.
“My mom always told me that education was a way to success in life,” said Chris Scull, who held his GED proudly in his hands. “My plan’s now are to enroll in Patten University and obtain my AA degree.” Scull came to prison at the age of 16, he now wants to use his degree to continue his efforts in educating the youth against gangs, and substance abuse.
Sophie Maxwell, a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, brought humor, tears, and applause from the audience when she gave an account of her personal story. She inspired the prisoners, their families and the prison staff about the importance of following your dream, having faith in yourself, being patient with yourself, and listening to your inner voice. Patten University co-valedictorian Au “Paul” Chen delivered a very humble and subdued speech. Patten University co-valedictorian Jeff Brooks enlivened the audience with his personal accounts of learning and family support that assisted his achievements. Brooks said, “I can’t tell you how many times I gathered with my fellow college students to discuss a reading or essay that we’re writing. The desire for education seemed to peel back any prejudices or stereotypes some men may have lead in their past. And, soon you could find inmates of various races discussing their classroom studies with one another, whether in a cell or on the tier. This was pretty much unheard of in any of the other prisons that I’ve been to, and I learn as much from my fellow inmates, as I did from my teachers.”
Scaife was presented with several awards and plaques for her dedication to public service. Scaife had an important role in the success of the Patten University program over the past four years.