Prison Learning Initiative
Education, Collaboration, Community
Coe’s Prison Learning Initiative (PLI) provides a range of hands-on, high-impact experiences for students and community members to learn about and get involved with the criminal legal system in Iowa and the Midwest. When we recognize the effects of incarceration and the challenges of reentry, we can make it easier, in big and small ways, for those affected to lead successful, engaged lives. PLI seeks to build welcoming communities to support returning citizens and their families, increase safety for all and reduce the long-term harms of crime and incarceration.
Calendar of Events
For more information, contact Professor Gina Hausknecht (ghauskne@coe.edu) or Beth Valenta at bvalenta@coe.edu, 319.399.8523.
Check back for more details about upcoming events.
Correcting the Narrative November 14, 7:00 pm, Kesler Auditorium
Correcting the Narrative is a public awareness, story-telling campaign that challenges perceptions about people with criminal records in order to remove barriers and support inclusive communities. PLI will host a Correcting the Narrative screening of short videos highlighting the successes, humanity and agency of people who have been in prison, followed by a panel discussion. Thursday, November 14 at 7:00 pm in Kesler Auditorium in Hickok Hall on the Coe College campus. Free and open to the public; all are welcome.
Midwest Books to Prisoners Book Drive and trip to Chicago distribution center. Contact Gina Hausknecht for information about book donations or volunteering.
Coe student Ashley Conde volunteering at the Midwest Books to Prisoners distribution center in Chicago
“Volunteering with Midwest Books to Prisoners has been an eye-opening experience. I have learned so much about the process and work that goes into shipping books to incarcerated individuals at different correctional facilities. I think the organization’s purpose is amazing, and it’s heartwarming to see a community come together and make a difference.”
Ashley Conde ‘23
PLI is supported by a grant from the Associated Colleges of the Midwest to help member colleges develop sustainable, ongoing community-based learning opportunities.