By:Madison Wyatt-TMU
(Cleveland, GA) – Truett McConnell University (TMU) is honored to announce the upcoming graduation of
several students from Phillips State Prison with their Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies.
This remarkable achievement underscores the transformative power of education and faith within the prison
system. Society often views convicted felons through a narrow lens, focusing on their past actions rather
than their potential for redemption and change. However, at Phillips State Prison, the grace of God has
worked profoundly within the lives of these inmates, demonstrating that everyone is capable of
transformation. Despite their incarceration, these men have shown a remarkable commitment to their
studies and faith, often surpassing the dedication seen in traditional academic settings.
Over the past four years, TMU faculty have taught courses at Phillips State Prison, culminating in this
graduation. The students, many of whom have been incarcerated for 10-25 years, have demonstrated an
exceptional eagerness to learn and grow in their faith. Their questions and engagement in class have
been profound, driving both students and instructors deeper into theological study.
The graduates’ testimonials reflect their deep spiritual journeys and newfound purpose. Samuel Crowe
noted that " incarceration placed me in an environment where I had nothing to depend on but God. His
Word and His Will have given me everything I need and a reason to look forward to each day." Dean
Sorrells shared that “in a prison cell in 2004, two years after God saved me, He made me understand I
was to be a Missionary/Evangelist.”
On August 16, 2024, the inmates of Phillips State Prison in Buford, Georgia, will be graduating from
Truett McConnell University with their B.A. in Christian Studies. This program, which has involved TMU
faculty from the Schools of STEM, Humanities, and Theology; Missions, represents a significant
outreach effort over the past four years.
The inmates, many of whom are serving life sentences, applied and were transferred to Phillips State Prison to participate in this program. After earning their degrees,
they are expected to serve as chaplains and missionaries within the Georgia Department of Corrections.
Truett McConnell University is a private Christian liberal arts and sciences university located in
Cleveland, Georgia, and has been ranked by Best Value Schools as the #1 Christian College in Georgia.
TMU offers 50+ different programs of study including baccalaureate and master’s degrees. The University
boasts a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio while 100% of incoming students receive financial aid.
For more information about Truett McConnell University, visit www.truett.edu.
“We’re on a mission from God”, Elwood Blues from the movie, The Blues Brothers. What a fantastic idea from TMC to offer this program. I hope this has a positive long term effect & helps these inmates feel better about themselves…
My brother has been wrongfully incarcerated for a decade now. He was prior to incarceration a Christian, Pentecostal, raised, God fearing man. Today he man of great knowledge and faith. By Gods Grace and undeniable Love my brother is able to make it each day. This program has transformed him and placed like men in his path. I’m proud of my brother and so are my parents and his kids and our family and friends. God willing my brother will be freed to spread his testimony and bring many more to our Fathers table. God will hug us all and show HIS favor over all of us! Thank you TMU professors and students! May God bless you all the days on this earth! Thank you Phillip state prison employees, may you be blessed beyond your comprehension for what you do!! I’m proud of you Norman Smart! We couldn’t make it there today but dad and I are proud of you! You will be home soon!!