The graduates received diplomas during the ceremony inside BMRCC’s chapel, attended by family, IDOC staff, and Adler University faculty, including Dr. DiMatteo-Gibson, program director of the online Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial and Organizational Psychology program, and Dr. Mazurowski, program director of the Master of Arts in Psychology online program. Adler University’s Chief of Staff, Kyra Lobbins, Ph.D., and IDOC’s Assistant Director, Alyssa Williams, delivered welcome messages. Lisa Coleman, Ph.D., President of Adler University, gave the keynote speech. The event also featured speeches from graduates who expressed their gratitude to faculty members and staff who assisted with facilitating the program.
Launched in June 2021, Adler University’s online undergraduate program at Big Muddy Correctional Center began as an eight-week course in applied psychology before expanding to the 20-course program that exists today. Through a partnership with the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC), it was a significant step toward expanding access to education within the correctional system, offering advanced courses to individuals in custody who had completed an associate degree or accumulated at least 60 college credits.
“This achievement demonstrates what’s possible when we come together with a shared vision of rehabilitation and opportunity,” said Latoya Hughes, Director of the Illinois Department of Corrections. “Educational programs like this have the power to change lives and reshape outcomes. These graduates have proven that with access to opportunity and support, personal growth and transformation aren’t just possible—they’re inevitable. We’re proud to partner with Adler University to create pathways that empower individuals to rewrite their stories.”
“This program stands as proof of what can be accomplished through dedication, collaboration, and innovation,” said Bryan Cross, IDOC Educational Facility Administrator at Big Muddy River Correctional Center. “Through Webex sessions and Adler University’s online portal, the program was delivered in a way that honored both academic rigor and the realities of a correctional setting. These graduates worked tirelessly over nearly four years, demonstrating persistence and commitment to their education. Adler University did an outstanding job providing a meaningful opportunity for growth and learning, and we are proud to celebrate the success of these students.”
“Adler’s Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology online program has been an important endeavor because it provided an opportunity for incarcerated individuals to gain knowledge and competencies that will help expand and challenge their minds while also preparing them for life beyond the institutional walls of prison,” said Maléka Ingram, D.Sc., executive dean of Adler University’s Online Campus.
Career opportunities for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in applied psychology include community outreach worker, homeless program outreach counselor, behavioral health specialist, psychiatric technician, addictions counselor, social services management, mental health crisis worker, and public health educator, among others.
The program was delivered entirely online, with weekly synchronous sessions promoting engagement and collaboration. Students also participated in a minimum of four face-to-face advising sessions to discuss their career goals and practical applications of their learning.
