RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR)- Twenty inmates of the Richmond City Jail were recognized Saturday in a graduation ceremony for completing the requirements to earn their General Education Development (GED) diploma.
In press release, Sheriff C.T. Woody, Jr. says he holds a graduation ceremony every June not only to honor the inmates who made it through the program, but also to recognize the jail’s education department as a whole.
“An achievement such as this can be a life-changing event,” said Sheriff Woody. “It builds self-esteem and provides motivation to continue down a new path of opportunity.”
Sheriff Woody gave the keynote address at today’s ceremony, and pointed to new doors that will be opened by inmates who earned their GED this year. Several of the graduates were also able to share their experiences with the friends and family in attendance.
“The Richmond City Jail is filled with intelligent, talented people, with the same sorts of goals as you and me,” Woody said. “We’re proud to have the opportunity to honor their achievements, and pray this is a stepping stone to greater success in each of their lives.”
