Since its launch, the Second Chance Initiative has reached a significant milestone, with multiple cohorts successfully completing their academic programs. As of January 2025, 39 students have earned an Associate of Science degree, and 9 have completed a Bachelor of Science degree. These graduates represent both Sampson and Anson Correctional Institutions, as well as returning citizens supported through our Women’s Reentry Higher Education Initiative. While not all participants complete their degrees, students impacted by the program have collectively earned more than 6,500 credit hours across over 2,200 courses. These outcomes underscore the program’s expanding impact and long-term sustainability throughout North Carolina.
Student Achievements and Engagement Highlights
The Second Chance Initiative not only supports academic achievement but also fosters leadership, professional development, and meaningful student engagement. Our students consistently demonstrate excellence both inside and outside the classroom, contributing to the broader Campbell University community and preparing for purposeful lives post-release. The highlights below reflect their accomplishments and the wide range of opportunities available through the program.
- As of May 2025, the average GPA among Second Chance Initiative students is 3.6.
- Thirteen students have been inducted into Alpha Sigma Lambda, the nation’s oldest and largest honor society for nontraditional undergraduate students.
- Trailblazers, a student-run newsletter, is published three times a year and showcases student voices and accomplishments.
- Students actively participate in both main campus and national writing competitions, including the Wiggins Memorial Library Symposium. Since 2023, two students have earned awards in their respective categories.
- A Student Advisory Council offers a platform for students to provide feedback on program improvements, address concerns, and help shape future engagement efforts.
- All incarcerated students complete a 15-week internship within correctional facilities through a partnership with the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction’s Alcoholism and Chemical Dependency Programs.
- Incarcerated students have the opportunity to obtain Peer Support Specialist Certification while enrolled in the program, preparing them for meaningful employment in human services and reentry support roles.
- Released students who have completed a bachelor’s degree through the program have secured employment within 30 days of release, reflecting the strength of the academic preparation and reentry support provided.
Student Success Resources
In addition to their coursework, all students enrolled in the Second Chance Initiative have access to a range of support services designed to promote their overall well-being and academic success. These services go beyond standard administrative support and are tailored to address the unique needs of our student population. Current offerings include:
- Individualized financial aid advising
- Library services, including personalized research support
- Counseling services
- Academic advising
- Career services and reentry support
- Disability services
Program Director
Kelly Morin, Assistant Dean of Prison Programs
kmorin@campbell.edu