Educating the Incarcerated Strengthens our Communities, Says PEP Director

Dr. Abigail Ballou is director of the Boston University Metropolitan College (MET) Prison Education Program (PEP) and a visiting assistant professor in MET’s Department of Applied Social Sciences. She holds a PhD in criminology and criminal justice from Northeastern University, an MPhil in English literature from the City University of New York Graduate Center, and a BA in English literature from New York University.

Dr. Ballou’s research centers on carceral education, reentry, and labor market outcomes for formerly incarcerated individuals. Her recent work examines the impact of college credentials earned behind bars on employment opportunities. She was recently awarded grants from the National Institute of Justice and Arnold Ventures to explore the relationship between criminal records, education, and access to middle-skill jobs. Her work has been published in journals such as Criminology and Justice Quarterly.

“Education within prisons transforms punishment into possibility.”

BU and Metropolitan College have been leaders in providing education within prisons through the Prison Education Program for over 50 years now. As the new director of PEP, why is education uniquely important to people who are experiencing incarceration?

The research is clear: Prison education programs like BU PEP greatly benefit both students and their communities. Studies have found that participation in postsecondary education while incarcerated significantly reduces recidivism rates and increases the likelihood of securing stable employment upon release.

But perhaps more importantly, education within prisons transforms punishment into possibility. By cultivating critical thinking, civic engagement, and a deeper understanding of systems and structures, we are giving our students tools to redefine themselves and build a future that is informed by, but not defined by, their pasts.

What is your vision for PEP as you take over the leadership role?

I want to ensure that the curriculum we offer behind bars provides students with the same rigorous intellectual experience, sense of community support, and opportunity for growth as any world-class college classroom. Some key ways I intend to improve our student experience is by expanding our offerings to include a wider variety of degree pathways and creating more robust reentry and career services.

I also believe that the best way to improve BU PEP is by centering the voices and experiences of our students. It is my goal to ensure that we develop curriculum and employment pathways that are relevant to our students’ academic interests and career goals.

What do you think are the biggest misconceptions the public has about incarcerated learners?

One big misconception is that incarcerated individuals are less capable or motivated than traditional students. The incarcerated students I’ve taught have approached their studies with deep intellectual curiosity, resilience, and a strong commitment to self-growth. They have been some of the most impressive individuals I have ever taught.

I also disagree with the sentiment that education in prison is a “privilege” and that our students are somehow less deserving of education than traditional students. I believe that education is a human right, and that when we invest in the intellectual and personal growth of all people—including those who are incarcerated—we strengthen our communities and create a more just, inclusive society.

How has your work in prison education shaped your perspective on the broader criminal justice system?

Teaching in a prison classroom, I’ve seen how many of our students faced significant educational and systemic barriers prior to entering prison. These experiences have solidified my belief that addressing inequality is crucial to our efforts to improve community safety.

“I believe that education is a human right, and that when we invest in the intellectual and personal growth of all people—including those who are incarcerated—we strengthen our communities and create a more just, inclusive society.”

Are there any policy changes or reforms you believe are essential to improving prison education systems in the US?

We are in desperate need of policies that support technology access and infrastructure in correctional facilities so that all incarcerated individuals, including our students, can engage with modern learning tools. Additionally, expanding credit-bearing programs, ensuring transferability of credits earned in prison to schools on the outside, and investing in reentry support services are critical to making sure our students continue their educational journeys and make the most of their education after release.

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