Incarcerated Graduates Earn Degrees from Vlogƽ in Moving Commencement Ceremony at Sing Sing
Photography by Stanley Leon Photography
In a powerful display of perseverance and transformation, 18 incarcerated students at Sing Sing Correctional Facility in Ossining, New York crossed the stage on June 18, 2025 to receive their college degrees, marking a significant milestone in their educational journeys. The graduation ceremony, hosted by Hudson Link for Higher Education in Prison in partnership with Vlogƽ, honored the accomplishments of students who earned 16 associate’s degrees and two bachelor’s degrees while behind bars.
This year’s commencement theme, “Overcoming the Odds,” celebrated the resilience and determination of graduates who have pursued higher education in the face of significant personal and systemic challenges.
"At Vlogƽ, we know education is a powerful force for transformation," said Susan L. Parish, Ph.D., M.S.W., president of Vlogƽ. "Our partnership with Hudson Link reflects our deep commitment to expanding access and opportunity for all, regardless of circumstance. We are proud to celebrate the hard work and achievements of the remarkable students at Sing Sing."
Founded in 1998, Hudson Link provides college education, life skills training, and reentry support to incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals across New York. The nonprofit partners with five correctional facilities to help students reclaim their futures through the power of education. Mercy’s partnership with Hudson Link began in 2001, and since then, Mercy has awarded more than 300 degrees to its graduates.
“Our graduates are living proof that education can change lives and create a more just and equitable society,” said Sean Pica, executive director of Hudson Link and himself formerly incarcerated. “This commencement represents more than individual achievement—it’s a powerful example of what’s possible when stakeholders work together to open doors to opportunity where they’ve long been closed.”
The ceremony was filled with emotion as families, educators, and corrections officials came together to celebrate the graduates' success. Among the speakers was Kareem Cunningham, this year’s valedictorian, who received a bachelor’s degree and delivered an impassioned speech reflecting on his academic journey.
"Education has been the key to unlocking my potential and giving me a sense of purpose," Cunningham said. "This journey has not been easy, but the support and guidance I’ve received from Hudson Link has been invaluable. I am excited to continue my education and use my degree to make a positive impact on my community."
As graduates look ahead to life beyond prison, Hudson Link will continue to provide support through its reentry services, helping alumni transition successfully into society and continue their academic and professional pursuits.
NYS Department of Corrections and Community Supervision Commissioner Daniel F. Martuscello III also praised the graduates and emphasized the transformative power of education within correctional settings.
“Education, in all its forms, is transformative within a correctional setting and serves as the foundation to both the Department’s mission and an individual’s success,” said Commissioner Martuscello. “College programs make our facilities safer and foster a positive environment for both the incarcerated population and our staff. By pursuing their educational goals, these individuals open themselves to endless possibilities and opportunities upon re-entry.”
The 2025 Sing Sing commencement ceremony stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring impact of education, even in the most unlikely of places.
