Testimonial in Support of Dr. Patrick Haydel
By Michael Santos, Founder of Prison Professors
I am honored to write this testimonial in support of Dr. Patrick Haydel, a man whose actions, both before and during his incarceration, reflect a deep and unwavering commitment to service, integrity, and personal transformation.
Dr. Haydel has made extraordinary efforts to reconcile with society and to uplift those around him—even while serving time in prison. Through his consistent engagement with our nonprofit, Prison Professors, he has emerged as a mentor, educator, and example for others who are working to prepare for successful reentry.
In every interaction I’ve had with Dr. Haydel, I’ve seen a man focused not on excuses, but on action. He has taken full responsibility for his past and has chosen to define himself not by the worst decisions of his life, but by the countless ways he strives to make amends and add value to others. His contributions to our mission have been meaningful and impactful. He’s helped us shape educational content that teaches incarcerated people how to think critically, develop vocational skills, and live with purpose.
Long before his incarceration, Dr. Haydel was a servant-leader in his community. As a chiropractor, entrepreneur, and employer, he built a legacy of care—treating patients with dignity, mentoring young professionals, and building businesses that created jobs and improved lives. Even in the face of adversity—including natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic—he showed resilience and ingenuity, pivoting his business strategies to continue supporting his community.
Now, inside prison, he continues to serve—not for recognition, but because that is who he is at his core.
Dr. Haydel exemplifies what it means to rehabilitate. He is a man of faith, intellect, and humility. He invests in others, studies to improve himself, and reflects a value system that society should encourage. I believe in his character, I believe in his journey, and I wholeheartedly support his petition for early release.
Our country benefits when we recognize those who demonstrate authentic transformation. Dr. Patrick Haydel has done more than enough to earn that recognition. I respectfully and firmly recommend that he be given the opportunity to return home—where he can continue his legacy of service as a free man, a father, a professional, and a contributor to the good of society.
With gratitude and full confidence,
Michael Santos
Founder, Prison Professors
www.PrisonProfessorsTalent.com
Prison Professors Charitable Corporation