Wilkinson Facility Holds Largest GED Graduation Ever
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Wilkinson Facility Holds Largest GED Graduation Ever

The Wilkinson County Correctional Facility in Woodville, MS recently held its largest GED graduation since MTC began operating the prison in 2013.

 “This is a great day,” Warden Jody Bradley told the graduates. “Nobody can ever take this away from you.”

Twelve offenders earned their GED. 

 The offenders, donning purple caps and gowns with white tassels, beamed with bright smiles as they participated in the ceremony that included family, staff, and other offenders. 

Valedictorian Deondray Duff says he feels good about earning the GED.

“My dad wanted me to come to class and be a better father for my kids,” he said. “This will better me as a person. It will help me go to college and study computer technology.

Shaniece Mabry, director of education for the Mississippi Department of Corrections told the graduates, “This is one step in a long journey. Your current situation does not determine your future destination.”

Walter Jones received his diploma and a special surprise: He saw his seven-month-old daughter, Reniah Norwood, for the first time. She came with his mother and two sisters. 

“I was nervous,” Jones said later. “I didn’t really know how to react. It was an indescribable feeling to hold her for the first time.”

 Jones adds he hasn’t really grasped how many doors the GED will open for him. “I know it’s a good thing and I’m glad I got to do it.”

Guest speaker Rev. LeReginald Jones encouraged the graduates,

Whatever life calls for, give it your best,” he said. “No matter the case, no matter the circumstances, do your best.”

About Wilkinson County Correctional Facility

Wilkinson County Correctional Facility has earned the Prison Rape Elimination Act
(PREA) certification for meeting or exceeding all standards set by the Department
of Justice.