Tennessee Higher Education Initiative

Last Friday evening, THEI's community showed up in an incredible way—over 60 people joined us for THEI’s annual Holiday Card Party, marking our largest turnout for this event! Together, we wrote messages to our students on the inside, reminding them they’re seen, valued, and part of a community that believes in their potential. For those impacted by the legal system, the holidays can be especially tough. Thank you to everyone who helped make this tradition a powerful reminder of THEI's impact in our community. Visit our website to learn more and see photos from this year's Holiday Card Party: https://ow.ly/PRNn50Uq44X #HolidayCardParty #HolidayParty #CommunityMatters #ConnectionAndCare #SupportAndHope

At THEI, we don’t do things the typical way—and that includes how we show our appreciation for our staff. Last Friday, our team enjoyed a four-course meal prepared by a professional chef, received gift bags filled with personalized goodies, completed affirmation cards for one another, and were recognized with years of service pins. And top it off, we made sure our team knew how much they’re valued with year-end financial recognition—because they make our work possible and keep us at the forefront of HEP and reentry efforts. Our staff is the heart of what we do. They deserve more than just a “thank you.” They deserve consistent, personal acknowledgment for all their hard work. #StaffAppreciation #GratefulForOurTeam #HigherEdInPrison #ReentryMatters

In THEI Fashion, Year 2024 ended with a card party that's dedicated towards time writing Holiday cards to students currently incarcerated. For me, it's personal! In 2020, prior to my release I was housed in segregation, because my cell-mate, R.I.P Mr. Robert Fouch, passed away from covid-19. I was in a very dark state of mind. Luckily, there was a Community of men and women who sat down and took time to write personal cards to students in prison. It kept me - if you know, you know. Sometimes, a letter, card, or just a gesture of love, brings HOPE to a dismal situation. I am sending much love to Tennessee Higher Education Initiative, Laura Ferguson Mimms, Molly Lasagna, Julie Doochin, Ed.D., and Rachel Zolensky for never giving up on the vision of bringing and building a Higher Education organization that continues to reshape the lives of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals. #HigherEducation #Workforce #Reentry

As the year nears its end, how are you ensuring your team knows that you value them as people? How are you showing appreciation for the people that move the mission? Today was the last day of the year that we will see many of our remote staff, so we made it a time of intentional pause to recognize their service and dedication. We started the day with recognition of years of service, an end of year toast, announcement of a financial end of year incentive, custom mugs and other accessories, personalized boxes that we filled with affirmations, and a four course meal prepared by Chef Aristide. We have an obligation to create moments of respite and joy for the people that take care of people. Today was a wonderful, joy-filled day. #disruptingsystemsofharm #teamthei

Last month, THEI hosted a Friendsgiving that brought alumni and community together for a day of connection, reflection, and celebration. We know the holidays can be tough, especially for those impacted by the legal system. That’s why we prioritize creating opportunities like this—moments to gather, share a meal, and remind one another of our shared humanity and resilience. #Friendsgiving #CommunityMatters #JusticeImpactedVoices #BuildingConnections

Make a real impact with your Giving Tuesday gift. Listen to THEI's Executive Director, Dr. Laura Ferguson Mimms, share why housing is the cornerstone of successful reentry—and how every donation today helps us build a network of support for our alumni. Donate now: https://lnkd.in/eSaQqc2w #GivingTuesday #HousingMatters #CommunityImpact #EducationForAll #ReentrySupport #HopeAndHome

Hear THEI's Executive Director, Dr. Laura Ferguson Mimms, share how THEI is transforming lives through education and reentry support. From college programs in prisons to advocacy with justice-impacted individuals, our work is changing futures—and you can be part of it. Donate now: https://lnkd.in/eSaQqc2w #GivingTuesday #EducationForAll #EducationMatters #NonprofitWork #ImpactfulGiving #CommunitySupport #BreakingBarriers #ReentrySupport #ReentrySupport #SupportOurMission #DonateForChange

Tomorrow is Giving Tuesday. Make your gift count. 95% of incarcerated individuals return home each year. With the THEI Housing Network having launched in 2024, we’re ensuring our alumni come home to more than just a roof. Your donation helps provide safe, supportive housing where residents can focus on education, rebuild their lives, and thrive. This is more than housing—it’s hope. Let’s reach our goal of 300 donations by the end of the year. Even $5 helps us build a stronger foundation for success. Donate now: https://lnkd.in/eSaQqc2w

THEI’s office will be closed from November 25–29. We believe in caring for the people who care for others, and that's why our whole staff is taking this time to rest, recharge, and enjoy time with loved ones and community. As we reflect on the season of gratitude, we’re looking forward to connecting with you soon at our Holiday Card Party on Friday, December 6th! Join us as we write messages of joy and encouragement to our students currently incarcerated. RSVP here: https://ow.ly/IV2c50UeCat #ThanksgivingBreak #GratitudeInAction #RestAndRecharge #CommunityCare #GivingThanks #AlumniSupport

Graduation is a moment worth celebrating—not just for our students, but for their loved ones too. For families and friends who can’t attend our upcoming graduation with Nashville State Community College, we’re sending out special keepsakes. These are tokens of pride, joy, and achievement that can be cherished for years to come. THEI honors every graduate with care and intention. From the details of the invitations to the ceremonies themselves, we pour our hearts into every moment—because our students and their loved ones deserve nothing less. #CelebratingSuccess #GraduationDay #AttentionToDetail #Graduates