(BOP) Last week, the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP or Bureau) marked an important milestone in its commitment to evidence-based rehabilitation with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) in El Reno, Oklahoma. The event celebrated the launch of the Prison Fellowship Academy, the first nonprofit program formally designated as an evidence-based recidivism reduction program under the First Step Act. The ceremony brought together BOP leadership, Prison Fellowship representatives, community partners, staff, individuals selected for the program’s first cohort, and federal partners including Robert (Bob) Troester, United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma.
Prison Fellowship President and CEO Heather Rice-Minus opened the program by highlighting the history of the First Step Act’s faith-based provision and the deepening partnership between the BOP and Prison Fellowship. She recognized the supporters whose commitments helped bring the Academy to El Reno and shared the vision for its long-term impact on participants and communities.
Deputy Director Joshua J. Smith followed with remarks emphasizing the Bureau’s commitment to expanding meaningful rehabilitative opportunities across its facilities. He stated, “At today’s event, I was reminded once again of the profound impact that programs like the Prison Fellowship Academy can have on the men in our care. I have seen firsthand how opportunities for personal growth, accountability, and community can change lives. I’m grateful for the dedication of our team here at FCI El Reno and look forward to the lasting transformation this effort will bring to the federal system.”
The ceremony also included remarks from David Green, a national business leader and philanthropist whose family foundation has supported Prison Fellowship’s work in Oklahoma. He shared the reasons behind the foundation’s investment in the state, the positive impact witnessed to date, and the promising outcomes anticipated with the launch of this new federal program.
Additional speakers, including partners and supporters of the initiative, reflected on the significance of the Academy and its expected benefits for individuals preparing for reentry. A Prison Fellowship Academy Manager and former El Reno inmate offered a personal account of the power of evidence-based programming and the hope it provides for long‑term change.
Following the ribbon cutting and photo opportunity, guests toured the housing unit where the yearlong program will be delivered and met with the individuals selected for its inaugural cohort. The visit concluded with a lunch hosted by Prison Fellowship, bringing together Bureau leadership, regional and facility staff, community partners, and program participants.
In connection with the Academy’s launch, Director William K. Marshall III emphasized the Bureau’s commitment to lasting, positive change. He stated, “This expanded partnership with Prison Fellowship is further demonstration of our commitment to make lasting positive changes within the Bureau. We are committed to equipping incarcerated individuals and correctional staff with the tools and resources they need to succeed.”
The launch of the Academy at FCI El Reno represents a significant step in strengthening reentry outcomes, expanding access to evidence-based rehabilitation, and supporting safer, more constructive correctional environments.