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Friday May 29, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
Prison education plays a vital role in expanding access to learning, supporting rehabilitation, and promoting academic success and community reintegration. This presentation highlights the progress of Lake Superior State University’s STEP UP program through two perspectives: the LSSU Academic Success Center Coordinator involved in program administration and implementation, and a student tutor who provides direct academic support to incarcerated learners.


Combining institutional leadership with firsthand tutoring experience, the presentation illustrates a collaborative approach to addressing educational barriers and creating inclusive, equitable learning environments within correctional settings.


The first segment focuses on the development, implementation, and sustainability of the program, including its history, impact, and the logistical, administrative, and security challenges involved. Campus resources, cross-institutional collaboration, and the recruitment and support of student tutors are also discussed.


The second segment centers the student tutor’s perspective, comparing on-campus and prison-based tutoring experiences. This portion highlights the role of individualized, student-centered support in promoting access and equity, addressing common misconceptions about incarcerated students, and fostering tutors’ professional growth and cultural awareness.


Overall, this presentation demonstrates that prison education programs are both feasible and impactful. Attendees will gain practical insights into program design and strategies for leveraging student tutors to expand access to higher education in correctional environments.
Speakers
avatar for Anirudh Gupta

Anirudh Gupta

Student, Lake Superior State University
Biology student at Lake Superior State University. Math Center tutor, STEP UP tutor, Supplemental Instruction (SI) Leader for Microbiology.
avatar for Laura Moening

Laura Moening

Coordinator, Academic Success Center & Student Support Advising, Lake Superior State University
Coordinator of the Academic Success Center and Support Advising at Lake Superior State University, where she leads student-centered initiatives focused on tutoring, early alert, and academic success. Member of the STEP UP (Success Through Educational Pathways in the Upper Peninsula... Read More →
Friday May 29, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
Peninsula V

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