On June 19, 2008, the entire education department was closed to in order to allow the staff to attend a graduation ceremony in the Garden Chapel. Those who had spent their time and efforts in improving their own lives, were recognized by the San Quentin administration for their hard work accomplished in attainting diplomas in the areas of GED, vocations, Associate of Arts and Bachelor of Art.
All who came to the podium were loudly applauded for their accomplishments. Depending 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.
Steve Welch completed his graduation from Machine Shop, actually requesting that his parole (on graduation day) come in the evening so that he could attend the ceremony. Eleven individuals were handed their Vocation certificates by Vice Principle of Vocations, William Reeves.
Marvin Mitchell was the valedictorian of the 34 inmates in attendance who received their General Education Diploma (“GED”). Mitchell received the highest scores of those who had been tested this past year. Certificates were handed out by Chris Wittick and Phil Leonida.
Michael Carter was valedictorian for the 2008 graduating class for the six recipients of the Patten University Associate of Arts degree. The college here at San Quentin is operated without any taxpayer support. A long list of volunteers from all walks of life make up the faculty of the “Prison University Project” (“PUP”). Jody Lewen and Jennifer Scaife are the PUP coordinators.
Of particular note in this years graduation is Vince Russo. Russo completed requirements for his bachelor’s degree through Ohio University. After finishing his AA degree, Russo then began his studies to complete the more advanced degree in January 2005.
Cookies and refreshments followed the ceremony, and the proud families were able to have photos taken together. Many who spoke to the audience told of their journey, and how it gave them motivation to keep moving forward, and for setting higher goals for their lives. To each and every one, much kudos are deserved; further recognition of the completion of even higher educational goals is expected of those who remain here.
