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University of Utah Prison Education Project

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ONE-STOP SHOP STUDENT CENTER

About Us

The Student Center offers educational advocacy, peer tutoring, humanities programming, and resources to all people incarcerated in the women’s designated unit at the Utah State Correctional Facility. It will eventually also offer reentry support. The Student Center aims to create more accessible pathways to higher education, to improve retention and outcomes for existing students, and to create collaborative spaces at Utah State Correctional Facility.  

Meet the Education Advocates

 

 

 

 

 

 

                       

angie student center

Angie

                                                                          

                   

yuli

Yuli

                                         

                       

marina

Marina

                                                             
           

 

kota

Dakota

 

tish

Tisha

  

chels

Chelsea

 

  

 

 

 

  

 

Six incarcerated Education Advocates are employed by the Student Center. They offer peer tutoring in all subjects, at all levels, toward any learning goal. Advocates work with students in high school, in technical and vocational training programs, and in college classes at Salt Lake Community College and the University of Utah. 

  marina student.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

yuli meduyn                                                                                

In line with Education Advocates’ collective vision, the Student Center is becoming a vibrant hub for community and connection. Advocates are at the heart of the center’s development as well as its day-to-day operation. In addition to educational support and assistance, they write grants, lead working groups, facilitate community workshops, help people write letters home, and assist English as a Second Language learners. Advocates consult with community partners, including the Sundance Film Institute, Cool Hand Series, Utah Humanities, and the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, to design educational programming that is both expansive and culturally responsive. They act as liaisons for students and as aides for educators, maintaining transparent and effective channels of communication for all.  

Advocates are currently being compensated for their work at the same rate as peer tutors on University of Utah’s main campus.  

Mission Statement

The Student Center is committed to transforming education through advocacy. Education is a right, not a privilege. In partnership with our communities, we cultivate curiosity, respect individual autonomy, and expand access to resources. We welcome students of any background, at any stage of their learning. Education advocacy reimagines possibilities for increased justice, intellectual nourishment, and joy. 
Last Updated: 3/31/25