A Brief History of MiCHEP

Prior to the establishment of MiCHEP, institutions that offered programs for incarcerated individuals would meet informally, often in virtual spaces, to share updates and best practices. In 2022, the Vera Institute of Justice supported a series of meetings that led to the development of a constitution that would serve as the framework for MiCHEP’s formal establishment. The constitution was signed by the founding members in May 2023 at a college in prison conference at Calvin University.

Member Institutions

• Calvin University and Calvin Theological Seminary
• Delta College
• Eastern Michigan University
• Ferris State University
• Grand Valley State University
• Hope College and Western Theological Seminary
• Jackson College
• Kellogg Community College
• Lake Superior State University
• Mott Community College
• Siena Heights University
• Western Michigan University

MiCHEP has also established formal partnerships with the Michigan Department of Corrections, Michigan College Access Network, and the National College Attainment Network.

Strategies

MiCHEP seeks to improve the college in prison system by sharing resources, encouraging best practices, and offering technical assistance between member institutions. MiCHEP also works collaboratively with MDOC to identify gaps in programs, help review new college in prison program applications, improve data collection and dissemination related to incarcerated students, and provide other insights as needed. MiCHEP also helps to create leaders within the incarcerated population who can serve as academic tutors, peer mentors, hospice workers, or other needed support roles. After incarceration, participants are well equipped to help other incarcerated or at-risk individuals by working with social service providers, re-entry assistance programs, or other community-based organizations.

Accomplishments

Since its founding, MiCHEP has achieved the following milestones:

• Developed a strategic plan to guide its work
• Established eight committees tasked with specific areas of work
• Added two currently incarcerated students and one formerly incarcerated individual to its Steering Committee
• Signed an agreement with MDOC to be the exclusive reviewer for college-in-prison program applications
• Worked to ensure all degree-granting programs have been approved as either Second Chance Pell or Prison Education Programs by the U.S. Department of Education
• Recieved a $20,000 grant from the National College Attainment Network, in partnership with Michigan College Access Network
• Met with state legislators and testified in committees in support of bills to improve college in prison opportunities