The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, in partnership with Lawson State Community College's Adult Education Program, recently celebrated the first graduating class of the IGNITE initiative - Inmate Growth Naturally and Intentionally Through Education.
Launched to support rehabilitation through learning, IGNITE is now active in four Alabama counties. Lawson State provides all instruction, including GED preparation and workforce certification courses, completely free of charge to participants and the sheriff's office. The program is funded through the college's adult education grant.
On Wednesday, July 18, 2025, the first IGNITE cohort proudly received their credentials. Dr. Cynthia T. Anthony, President of Lawson State, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing education as a powerful tool for transformation and successful reentry. Several graduates expressed gratitude for their Lawson State instructor, Terence Tubbs, whose encouragement and mentorship had a lasting impact on their journeys.
"He specifically asked to teach at the jail because he worked in a prison in a previous Adult Education role and saw the impact it had on the students," added Ms. Charlette White, director of adult education at Lawson State. "So, when the program reached out asking for a class, he was the perfect fit. He's been doing an amazing job!"
Learn more about Adult Education at Lawson State by calling 205-929-2133 completing the online adult education form here.
