At North Hennepin Community College, we believe in the transformative power of education. We believe that every person, regardless of their past, deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute meaningfully to their community. That belief is at the heart of our participation in the U.S. Department of Education’s Pell-Eligible Prison Education Program, and it is why we are proud to offer our ABA-approved Paralegal Certificate program to students at the Minnesota Correctional Facility-Shakopee.
On Oct. 10, the Higher Learning Commission conducted a site visit to review our PEP program. Reaching this milestone reflects our commitment to not only the rigor and quality of our academic offerings, but also equity, access and workforce development. It’s a moment to celebrate the students, faculty and partners who are helping us change lives inside and outside the classroom.
Our paralegal program was the first in the nation to enroll incarcerated students in an ABA-approved certificate track. What began in 2021 with five students has grown to 14 this year. These students are pursuing a 30-credit certificate through online courses, conducted synchronously via Zoom, allowing students to engage with instructors and classmates in real-time. Each student also participates in a virtual internship with The Legal Revolution, a nonprofit law firm affiliated with All Square, our partner in this initiative. Through this internship, students apply their classroom knowledge and skills to real-world legal matters, preparing legal documents that directly contribute to advancing client goals.
This is more than education, it is empowerment. Our students are gaining the skills to advocate for themselves and others, to understand the legal system from a unique and deeply personal perspective, and to prepare for careers in legal services.
Vivian Jones, a May 2025 graduate, wasn’t sure if a legal career was within reach, but the program helped her realize she was capable and prepared. She added, “This journey has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, self-worth and the power of perseverance. I’ve come to understand that I can achieve more than I ever imagined. The challenges I faced during my studies pushed me to grow, and I’ve emerged with a renewed sense of confidence and purpose. Most importantly, I have learned that it’s never too late to dream, to start anew, and to pursue a path that aligns with your passion and values.” Vivian has since been released and is furthering her education at Metro State University.
Our paralegal faculty are equally inspired. Kate Lovo said, “I am proud of our paralegal program’s partnership with the Department of Corrections because it is NHCC’s mission of engaging students and changing lives in action. We are responding to community need, expanding access to higher education, and as exemplified by our incredible graduate, witnessing the real impact that educational opportunity has to rebuild lives and futures.”
Through this program, we are not only preparing students for gainful employment, but we are also reducing recidivism, strengthening families, and building safer, more informed communities. The partnership with All Square also opens doors to internships and job placement with The Legal Revolution and other Twin Cities firms, ensuring that our students have real pathways to success. We are proud to lead in this space, and we look forward to expanding our reach to other correctional facilities across Minnesota.
Education is a second chance. It is a pathway to purpose. At North Hennepin Community College, we are honored to walk that path with every student who dares to dream of a better future.