My Journey on the National Board of Advisors for the Petey Green Foundation
Making a Difference Through Educational Justice
When I first received the invitation to join the national board of advisors for the Petey Green Foundation at Princeton University, I knew I was being offered a rare opportunity to contribute to something truly transformative. The Foundation, named after the legendary community activist Ralph “Petey” Green, has been at the forefront of educational justice work for decades, focusing on providing quality tutoring and educational support to incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals.
The Legacy of Petey Green
For those unfamiliar with Ralph “Petey” Green’s story, he was a pioneering broadcaster and community activist who, after serving time in prison himself, dedicated his life to speaking truth to power and advocating for marginalized communities. The Foundation that bears his name continues this important work by building bridges between academic institutions and correctional facilities.
The Petey Green Program, which began at Princeton University in 2008, has since expanded to partner with numerous colleges and universities across the country. As a board member, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing this growth firsthand and contributing to the strategic vision that has made it possible.
My Role and Responsibilities
Serving on the national board of advisors comes with significant responsibilities that I don’t take lightly. Our work includes:
– Providing strategic guidance for program expansion and sustainability
– Advising on curriculum development that meets the unique needs of incarcerated students
– Developing partnerships with correctional facilities, universities, and other stakeholders
– Fundraising and resource development to ensure program longevity
– Advocating for policy changes that support educational access in correctional settings
Each board meeting brings together some of the most dedicated minds in education, criminal justice reform, and social advocacy. The diverse perspectives at the table ensure that our approaches are holistic and considerate of the complex realities facing the communities we serve.
Meaningful Moments and Impact
What continues to inspire me most about this work are the success stories that emerge from the program. I’ve had the honor of meeting numerous students whose educational journeys were supported by Petey Green tutors—individuals who have gone on to pursue higher education upon release, start businesses, mentor others, and become powerful advocates for change in their own communities.
One particularly memorable moment was attending a graduation ceremony at a partner correctional facility, where several students who had completed their GED through the program spoke about how education had transformed their sense of self and possibility. Their words reinforced for me that education is not just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about reclaiming agency and dignity.
The Princeton Connection
The program’s roots at Princeton University give it a unique character and set of resources. Princeton’s commitment to service and academic excellence creates a strong foundation for the program, while also challenging us to continually examine how institutions of privilege can meaningfully engage with issues of social justice and inequity.
Working alongside Princeton faculty, administrators, and students has been enlightening. The university community brings tremendous intellectual resources to the table, while the Foundation brings vital on-the-ground experience and community connections. This partnership exemplifies how academic institutions can put their resources to work for tangible social change.
Looking Forward
As we look to the future, the board is focused on several key initiatives:
– Expanding the program’s digital learning opportunities, especially in light of lessons learned during the pandemic
– Developing more robust post-release educational support systems
– Creating pathways to employment through partnerships with businesses committed to second-chance hiring
– Building a stronger alumni network of both tutors and students
– Advancing research on best practices in correctional education
The need for this work has never been more urgent. With over two million people incarcerated in the United States, and recidivism rates remaining stubbornly high, education represents one of the most powerful interventions available. Studies consistently show that participation in educational programs dramatically reduces the likelihood of returning to prison and increases post-release employment prospects.
Join the Cause
If you’re reading this and feeling inspired to get involved, there are many ways to support this important work:
– If you’re a college student, check if your institution has a Petey Green chapter—or consider starting one
– Volunteer as a tutor or mentor if you have relevant skills to share
– Support the Foundation financially through donations
– Advocate for policies that expand educational access in correctional settings
– Help challenge the stigma faced by formerly incarcerated individuals seeking education and employment
My service on the national board of advisors for the Petey Green Foundation has been one of the most rewarding commitments of my professional life. It’s a privilege to be part of this community of changemakers, and I look forward to sharing more about our work and impact in the future.
—
*This blog post reflects my personal experiences and views as a board member for the Petey Green Foundation. To learn more about the Foundation and its work, visit their official website.*
