ACTC holds commencement ceremony for first graduating class at Little Sandy Correctional Complex

Published on Nov 5, 2026

 Ashland Community and Technical College celebrated a significant milestone earlier this semester as 28 students received their Associate in Arts degrees during the college’s first commencement ceremony held at Little Sandy Correctional Complex.

The ceremony, held Thursday, Sept. 24, recognized students who successfully completed the requirements for their degrees while incarcerated.

Many of the graduates earned their degrees with distinction.

During the ceremony, ACTC Chancellor Dr. Larry Ferguson congratulated the graduates and emphasized the significance of their accomplishments, not only for themselves, but also for those around them and the communities they will eventually return to.

“This is not just a personal victory. Look at the faces of those around you here today. Your success is a beacon of hope for them, for the men sitting next to you, and the community waiting for your return. You are proving that change is real, and that growth happens when we refuse to give up on tomorrow,” Ferguson said.

Steve Woodburn, ACTC Vice-Chancellor of Student Affairs, also addressed the graduates, reflecting on the relationships he has developed with students in the program and the determination he has witnessed throughout their educational journeys.

“I have personally enjoyed getting to know many of the students in this program over the past several years. One of the things that has impressed me most is the determination, resilience, and perseverance I have witnessed. It has been a privilege to be part of this partnership with Little Sandy Correctional Complex and to watch so many of you reach this important milestone,” Woodburn said.

"The graduates of the ACTC program at Little Sandy Correctional Complex have demonstrated an extraordinary level of dedication, discipline, and perseverance in earning their associate degrees," said Joyce Gee, Corrections Regional Education Administrator. "These students consistently approached their coursework with seriousness, focus, and a genuine commitment to learning and self-improvement. They deserve to be recognized for all they have accomplished."

The success of the students at Little Sandy Correctional Complex is a clear reflection of the shared commitment between them and the college faculty. 

“Graduating from the ACTC program was a very structured and positive experience,” said one of the graduates. “It made me feel more ready to take on the world." 

ACTC’s partnership with Little Sandy Correctional Complex provides incarcerated students with access to post-secondary education and the opportunity to work toward college credentials while completing their sentences.

The commencement ceremony marked an important milestone for both the graduates and the institutions involved, celebrating the power of education to create opportunities, encourage personal growth, and help individuals prepare for their next chapter.

Written by: Megan Smedley, ACTC strategic communications administrator