I do this work because I am grateful for my education and freedom, which were only possible through an incredible amount of support from those around me. During my time on a behavioral research team serving students in a juvenile detention facility, I saw firsthand how profoundly support and education can shape a person’s life, and I hope to help others access the same pathways I had the choice to walk. I also believe in the right to have one’s basic needs met, while understanding that it is a daily fight to maintain that right in this current system of harm. Each day I aim to rebuild the rights that have been stripped from those impacted by the carceral system.
Biography:
Abigail joined THEI in November 2025 as a Pre-Entry Programs Associate. While earning her B.S in Neuroscience at Auburn University, she served students at Mt. Meigs Juvenile Corrections Facility in Montgomery, AL as a part of a behavioral research team. She continued at Auburn to receive her M.S. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology while working as a career coach. Shaped by both her formal and informal education, her approach with students aims to foster self-understanding, goal clarity, and autonomous solutions.
I choose this work of empowerment and advocacy because I am simultaneously extremely passionate about both education and righting institutional wrongs. As a longtime student of the world, I can truly see how education can inspire and open the minds of individuals from every different background there is. Though I don’t have one grand defining moment of why I want to do this work, I do have a steady and gradual build of interest and desire to make change. Having gained such inspiration from my former teachers and professors, I strive to help others realize their passion, and their call towards gaining an education. When it comes to righting wrongs, it’s really quite simple; I think everyone deserves to live in a fair and just world, and I will do everything in my power to work towards that vision for our future. I am honored to be a part of this life-changing work where I get to have the perfect combination of my two most prevalent passions.
Biography:
Kasey Bowe joined the THEI team as an Academic Coordinator for the Educational Programs Department in the Fall of 2024. She recently completed her Master’s degree in Sociology and Criminology from Middle Tennessee State University, and has come to realize a strong passion for advocacy and liberation movements within the carceral system. Kasey is excited to find an avenue in which she can explore and grow her passions in a meaningful and impactful way. She hopes to gain more experience in this field, transforming lives through the powerful presence of education.
I do this work because, as a HEP student, I have felt the impact of others who began this work before me. When HEP is done well, it is an avenue for success, autonomy, and community. I am privileged to be able to participate in the lives of our students in a way that helps to facilitate a wide array of growth and expanding opportunities. The HEP community is a critical part of my personal story and I couldn’t imagine being on the outside of this circle.
Biography:
Barbi Brown joined the Tennessee Higher Education Initiative in 2020, currently serving as the Director of Policy and Practice. In her role, she works with and for directly impacted individuals as we seek to overcome the current systems of mass incarceration and perpetual punishment and to create pathways of equitable access to higher education. In addition to Barbi’s role with THEI, she is a Justice Policy Fellow with The Education Trust and is also actively involved with The Southern HEP Collective, Tennessee Prison College Coalition, and Unlock Higher Education where she advocates for policy change within the Higher Education in Prison field. Barbi earned a Bachelor of Professional Studies from Lipscomb University where she remains an actively engaged alumni of Lipscomb’s Initiative for Education (LIFE) program.
I am ashamed to say that I am someone who has not always contributed to his community. As a justice-impaired individual, we contribute to the systems of harm within the carceral setting, by subscribing to a caste system that ascribes one's worth based on the harm they've done. As marginalized individuals within the correctional setting, we are taught to grab at control and power at every chance we can, even if this means marginalizing others within the system in order to inflate our own worth. Through educational opportunities I began to see for the first time the way the correctional system harmed those it was supposed to be rehabilitating, with its focus solely on retributive policy. Education and exposure to compassion led to empowerment, self-reflection, and for the first time in 17 years, the desire to make amends for past harms. It is my belief that everyone deserves to be met with compassion and empathy, and that deficits within the most marginalized among us, are overcome through social capital. Through facilitation of mutual aid support groups focusing on empathy and community, I want to contribute something positive to my community.
Biography:
Matthew is a mental health and human services major with concentrations in grief, trauma and loss counseling and addiction studies, at the University of Maine. Through a year-long mentorship program with the Health Education Training Institute, Matthew became fascinated with the power of empathetic listening and radical acceptance in the mutual aid support group setting. Working with THEI as the Transitional Program's Research Fellow, Matthew is currently providing peer support to THEI alumni, and researching the history of carceral trends in America and radical hospitality practices in the field of reentry. Matthew grew up in Old Orchard Beach, Maine.
I do this work because I believe when you become free, you have an obligation to free others. As a first-generation college graduate, I understand the transformative and liberative power education holds not only for individual embarking upon the knowledge journey, but also for those to whom the individual is connected. I do this work because it matters and it actively disrupts systems of harm.
Biography:
Committed to finding and remaining focused on her “True North” Laura Ferguson Mimms has consistently led organizations that align with her personal mission and philosophy patterned after one of her “sheroes” Harriet Tubman, when you become free you have an obligation to free others. As a first-generation college graduate, Laura understands the transformative and liberative power education holds, not only for the individual who embarks upon the knowledge journey, but also for all people attached to that individual. In sum, the effect of educational attainment is exponentially positive for generations to come…this is the work Laura lives in and lives for.
Laura has served as the Executive Director of THEI since 2021. Prior to joining THEI, Laura led Strategy & Impact at The Family Center focused on breaking cycles of multi-generation abuse and trauma, served in leadership roles at The University of Texas at Austin, The National Center on Time and Learning, Metro Nashville Public Schools, and charter school organizations.
Laura is a proud HBCU graduate, having completed her BA in English and African American Literature from Fisk University. She completed an American Montessori Society certification and MS in Education coursework, MA in English, and EdD in Educational Administration from Baylor University. She is peacock proud to be the wife of Bernard Henry Mimms, mother of Brent, Alexander & Katherine, and bonus mom to Ashley and Brittany.
I believe that education is a right that should be afforded to everyone, regardless of circumstance, and this belief guides my work each day. With lived experience navigating reentry, I bring empathy, insight, and deep commitment to my role, ensuring individuals receive holistic, dignified support during a critical period of change. An alumna of the THEI program, I am passionate about offering others the same compassion, guidance, and opportunities that were instrumental in my own journey.
Biography:
Hannah joined THEI as a Transitional Programs Associate in 2025, supporting our alumni as they transiton back into their communities. Hannah holds an Associate of Science in Business Management from Dyersburg State Community College and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at Middle Tennessee State University. She supports individuals in areas such as housing, employment, continuing education, and access to basic needs, grounding her work in the belief that education and intentional support are powerful tools for transformation, stability, and long-term success.
I am invested in this work to not only be an example, but a solid resource for individuals reentering society. I believe with preparation, any and every individual can have a successful reentry.
Biography:
Edward Jones is the Alumni Success Coordinator at the Tennessee Higher Education Initiative. He provides holistic services to help meet the needs post-incarceration.
He is the co-owner of Double R Strategies and consulting. The company advocates for better housing, voting rights being restored, better jobs, and higher pay, all while being the 3rd shift Team lead at second chance employer named American Paper and Twine.
Edward is currently completing his associate degree in business administration with a pathway of continued education in the field of social work to help dismantle issues that plague the underserved people of our community.
I do this work because I believe education is freedom. Working for THEI aligns with my commitment to social justice, advocating for low-income and justice-impacted individuals, and advancing inclusion—using education to empower people to transform their lives.
Biography:
Dr. Watechia Lawless is a Nashville native and has spent the last 30 years working to improve the quality of public education, higher education, and small business development in Tennessee. She joined THEI In November 2025, as the Chief of Staff. Prior to that, she served as Director, Children and Youth Initiatives for the Office of Mayor Freddie O'Connell. She spent two years as Community Superintendent, Midtown Learning Community in Hamilton County Schools. Prior to that, she served as Executive Principal at Napier Elementary School. She led efforts to transform the school from being the lowest performing school in the state to being recognized as a TN Reward School in 2019. Also, she serves as an educational strategist and consultant for local and international schools, school districts, and nonprofit organizations. She has a B.A. in Economics from Spelman College, MBA from Belmont University, a M.ED from Vanderbilt University and an Ed.D from Lipscomb University. She enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and sorority sisters.
Throughout my time at Davidson College I had the incredible opportunity to hear Raymond Santana, member of the Exonerated 5 and the Innocence Project, and Bryan Stevenson, creator and Executive Director of The Equal Justice Initiative, share their stories and perspectives of our criminal justice system. Hearing them speak validated my interest and frustration in the U.S. prison system and motivated me to consider what role I have in fighting for justice. Since then, prison reform and restorative justice became causes that touched on my core values, and I knew I wanted to find my place in the movement. I’m excited to join THEI and look forward to all I will learn from my co-workers and our students.
Biography:
Hannah Malkofsky-Berger joined THEI in 2022 as an Academic Coordinator. She is a graduate of Davidson College where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. Prior to working at THEI, Hannah worked as a Remote Learning Coordinator, Teaching Assistant, and athletics coach at the middle and high school level. She is passionate about supporting people who are incarcerated and believes access to higher education is an important piece in disrupting systems of harm.
I am a longtime educator and advocate for equal justice. My “why” stems from my belief that knowledge is the most direct path to individual freedom and my awareness that systems, both those seemingly benevolent and those obviously cruel, are often at odds with that quest for individual freedom. I do this work with the hope of restoring the relationship between education and personal liberation. Or, to borrow the wisdom of James Baldwin, I believe: “The purpose of education, finally, is to create in a person the ability to look at the world for himself, to make his own decisions…. But no society is really anxious to have that kind of person around. What societies really, ideally, want is a citizenry which will simply obey the rules of society. If a society succeeds in this, that society is about to perish. The obligation of anyone who thinks of himself as responsible is to examine society and try to change it and to fight it — at no matter what risk. This is the only hope society has. This is the only way societies change.”
Biography:
Kristin joined THEI as the Program Manager for the Student Resources Initiative in 2024. Prior to joining THEI, Kristin worked as an instructional coach, an English teacher at the middle and high school levels, and as a staff attorney and development specialist for a non-profit law firm. Kristin is a graduate of Brown University (B.A. Literature and American History), the University of Oregon School of Law (J.D.), and Vanderbilt’s Peabody College of Education (M.P.P., Educational Policy).
The greatest tool to achieving liberation is education. I wanted to work with THEI because I saw that belief in practice immediately, and a place that provides us with the right tools to disrupt systems of harm. I believe in our staff with my whole heart, and all that they do to support our students on their path. At THEI, I get to help our helpers by focusing on the day-to-day operational and administrative tasks that keep the engine running, and I have the honor of seeing all their beautiful work every day. The fulcrum point of the know-how and the why is where I sit.
Biography:
Jack came to THEI in 2025 following a career in volunteer management, homeless services, nonprofit fundraising, caregiver support, and education in classroom, theatre and museum settings. He has learned, above all other things, that he thrives when there is a challenge to overcome and a support system to build. He relishes any opportunity to provide contentment to others, and his career is built around bringing that to systems-impacted communities.
I believe education should expand autonomy, opportunity, and dignity—especially for people who have historically been denied access to it. My work is driven by a commitment to student success and to ensuring that high-quality postsecondary education is available in all settings, including prisons. I am especially motivated by the intersection of higher education policy, systems design, and equity. I care deeply about building programs that are not only accessible, but rigorous, sustainable, and responsive to the lived realities of incarcerated students. Whether working on policy, partnerships, or technical assistance, I focus on reducing harm, increasing choice, and strengthening educational ecosystems so students can meaningfully shape their futures.
Biography:
Lauren joined THEI in 2025 as the Director of Strategic Initiatives. She works in Technical Assistance for higher education in prison programs supporting partnerships and advancing high-quality postsecondary education in carceral settings through a focus on reducing harm and promoting autonomy. She previously worked to create and administer a statewide system of post-secondary education in order to provide high-quality education, access and choice to those incarcerated in TN, creating a standard of TCAT and community college availability within TDOC facilities, jails, and a youth center. As part of that work, Lauren represented her organization in a multi-agency consortium, a first of its kind in the nation. She has worked as an Academic Advisor in University College and Adjunct Professor in University Studies at her alma mater MTSU, where she assisted in building the Advisor Mastery Program.Lauren has been a featured speaker for the NACADA Global Connection series and a panel expert for Jobs for the Future, Vera Institute for Justice, and ReadSpeaker, among others.Lauren enjoys work with higher education policy and had the opportunity to advocate for the Higher Education Act, FUTURE Act (which passed), and Title IX in DC.
Ricky does this work because of his passion for service and leadership. His journey began at Nashville State Community College, where he studied business administration. With experience in various fields, including service canine training and media engineering, Ricky has developed a versatile skill set and strong work ethic. His leadership, conflict resolution, and communication skills have been evident throughout his career. Ricky's passion for community service is exemplified through his involvement in organizations like The Theotherapy Project and Malachi Dads, where he has supported rehabilitation and education initiatives. With a focus on empowering students and fostering alumni connections, Ricky's impact is set to grow. His dedication, resilience, and commitment to community betterment stand as a testament to the transformative power of service and leadership.
Biography:
Recently appointed as the Alumni Coordinator/Office Coordinator at THEI, Ricky looks forward to leveraging his skills and experiences in this new role. His responsibilities in this position undoubtedly contribute to the organization's mission of empowering students and fostering alumni connections. Ricky is a dedicated professional with a passion for service and leadership. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration at Belmont University, he holds an Associate of Science in Business Administration from Nashville State Community College. With a diverse background in service canine training, wood plant operations, and media engineering, Ricky has honed his skills in leadership, conflict resolution, and communication.
I do this work because I believe everyone deserves education. The Sankofa Bird, a Ghanaian symbol, reminds me to “go back and get it.” History demonstrates how the liberative power of education has been systemically controlled and withheld. I must be in opposition. This work that “disrupts systems of harm” and “creates opportunities for autonomy” requires my action, because I am aware of such history; I know better. There is no time for inaction. So, I personally do this work. I do this work based on lived experience of growing up in a rural, Southern school system and then becoming a secondary English teacher in an alternative setting. I have witnessed first-hand the systemic, oppressive isms that contribute to marginalization and ultimately the school-to-prison pipeline. Now, I do this work because I believe as a fundamental, social justice imperative–we must do better.
Biography:
Adrienne Taylor joined THEI in 2022 as an Academic Coordinator. She became the Director of Educational Programs in 2024. She brings with her teaching experience from an alternative, secondary public school setting where she applied Culturally Responsive Teaching practices. Prior to teaching, Adrienne attended Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College of Education and Human Development where she earned an M.Ed in Learning, Diversity, and Urban Studies. While at Spelman College she received a BA in English and Comparative Women’s Studies. Her lived and professional experiences contribute to her focus on justice, equity, diversity and inclusion in education. Adrienne now serves as Director of Education Programs and ultimately recognizes the liberating power of education in action throughout her life and strives to share it with others.
I participated in Pitzer’s Inside-Out Program and learned alongside classmates who were incarcerated. Through this, I began to unpack, understand, and witness the transformative and equalizing nature of education. When graduating college, I had the privilege of walking across the stage with several of my classmates who were previously incarcerated. That moment affirmed my belief that despite our differences, we were all united in our shared identity of college graduates.
This pushed me to view education as more than a means to an end, but instead as the goal itself. Education is social capital and allows you to see the world with new and different perspectives. It is something that is uniquely yours and can never be taken away. I do this work because I believe that education is for everyone, and I look forward to being a learner myself as I navigate this new terrain.
Biography:
Lydia West joined THEI in 2025 as an Education Programs Associate. She is a graduate of Pitzer College where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Biology. This interdisciplinary major combined with her participation in Pitzer’s Inside-Out program led her to explore the overlap between systems of harm, health, and education. She looks forward to creating connections with students and reducing barriers to college in prison, making education more feasible and attainable for all.
After serving 22 years in the Tennessee Department of Corrections, Jeremy White is now a student, graduate, alum, and steward of reentry. He serves roles as an Administrative Assistant in the newly formed Office of Reentry in the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Jeremy is also a Transition Coach with the Tennessee Higher Education Initiative (THEI) organization and committed leader of the THEI Alumni Network.
Biography:
He is an Advocate and Trainer with the Free Hearts organization and a full-time student at APSU, who just made the Dean’s List for Spring of 2023. He has an associate degree in business administration and is working towards his bachelor’s in finance, with an emphasis on Urban Economics. In addition, Jeremy is the Co-Owner of Double R Strategies and Consulting.
Education is a powerful tool that transforms lives and perspectives. It enables people to see the world in new ways, unlocking potential and fostering personal growth. Because of this, I firmly believe that everyone has the right to educational development and the restoration of their humanity.
Biography:
My name is Sandy Wilson, and I currently serve in the role of Academic Coordinator. I often refer to Charleston, SC when asked about my hometown, because my small town is not recognized on maps. I’m actually from a small town near Charleston, South Carolina named Honey Hill.
My professional life began with my service in the U.S. Army. Following my military service, I pursued and completed a B.S. Degree in Health and Human Performance from the University of Memphis, and later earned an MS in Education from Union University.
In my most recent role, I had the privilege of serving as a program manager at Communities in Schools of Memphis. Here, I dedicated myself to identifying and addressing barriers that could potentially cause students to drop out of school.
Beyond my career, I find great fulfillment in my role as a father to a lively young boy named Sandy IV, affectionately known as Seth, and as a loving husband to my wonderful wife, Cicely. Their unwavering support and love motivate me in my work and personal life.
I was drawn to the work of THEI for its commitment to breaking cycles of harm and facilitating opportunities for autonomy and self-determination inside prisons. Before joining the THEI team, I had worked in re-entry and as a college and student success counselor to first generation college students, and my passion for this work has always related to helping people have the freedom to self-determine, the access to information to make informed choices, and the support needed to overcome whatever barriers and challenges our systems impose on people. My passion for access to opportunity in prison developed through a Southern context, with a lens of dismantling systemic racism, ending economic exploitation, and breaking generational cycles of harm.
