Providing access to higher education in prisons and enhancing the academic experience for all.
The Lipscomb Initiative for Education (LIFE) reflects our university’s commitment to making high-quality, faith-based higher education accessible to all who seek it—no matter their circumstances. Since 2007, LIFE has brought accredited college courses inside two Tennessee prisons, allowing incarcerated students to pursue a degree and grow spiritually, intellectually, and personally.
Nationwide, only about 35% of state prisons offer access to college courses—and fewer than 10% of incarcerated individuals are enrolled, despite strong interest. LIFE is part of a growing network of 400+ college-in-prison programs working to close this gap. More than 40 students have earned degrees through LIFE, and the program continues to support academic and spiritual development for incarcerated learners.
The program also offers a transformative experience for traditional campus-based students. By enrolling in classes held at the prison or volunteering as tutors, they engage in shared learning alongside incarcerated peers. These experiences foster empathy, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of justice, service, and human potential.
Interested in being part of this powerful learning community? Fill out this form to get involved.
The Lipscomb Initiative for Education (LIFE) began in 2007 with 15 students from the Debra K. Johnson Rehabilitation Center (formerly Tennessee Prison for Women) and 15 traditional undergraduate students from Lipscomb University. Founded by Dr. Richard C. Goode, the LIFE program was designed to bridge educational opportunities for incarcerated women and traditional college students, creating shared learning experiences that foster growth and understanding.
In 2018, LIFE launched the nation’s first seminary program within a women’s prison, offering incarcerated students access to theological studies and spiritual development. In December 2022, 7 students were the first to earn their Master of Arts in Christian Ministry degrees.
With the support of state grants, the program expanded in 2020 to include Riverbend Maximum Security Institution (RMSI), extending educational opportunities to incarcerated men. In May 2024, the first Associate’s degree graduation was held at RMSI.
Today, more than 65 students are enrolled across both facilities, continuing their academic journeys through the LIFE program.
For students released before completing their degrees, the Richard C. Goode LIFE Scholarship provides financial support to continue their education online or on campus, either full- or part-time. Since its establishment, the scholarship has supported 14 students in pursuing their education after release and helped five of them earn their degrees.
Undergraduate students may enroll in relocated classes to study with LIFE students. Fill out this form to get involved.
Teach LIFE Courses
Lipscomb faculty across the disciplines are invited to teach LIFE courses at both the men's and women's prisons. Contact Robbie Spivey for more information.
For students released before completing their degrees, the Richard C. Goode LIFE Scholarship provides financial support to continue their education online or on campus, either full- or part-time. Since its establishment, the scholarship has supported 14 students in pursuing their education after release and helped five of them earn their degrees.
LIFE students receive reduced tuition costs. Meanwhile, the program itself is maintained through state funding, private donations and the Richard C. Goode Endowed LIFE Scholarship for returning students.
If you wish to provide additional aid, please make a gift below.
After spending half of her life behind bars, Lipscomb alumna Barbi Brown said the education she received through Lipscomb’s LIFE program made her transition from living inside prison to living outside much easier...
At the age of 17, Ashlee Sellars, from Knoxville, Tennessee, found herself in a courtroom being tried as an adult facing a life plus 25-year prison sentence for decisions she made as a minor...
In 2009 the influence of a relationship led Donna Pearson to use cocaine and tore her away from her career in the dental industry, a field she has worked in for more than 26 years...
Graduation files: Thompson seeks to serve others with grad degree, LIFE experience
When Adrianne Thompson walked across the Allen Arena stage to receive her diploma on Dec. 18, it symbolized much more than the culmination of several years of hard work and study to complete a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (MACM)...
Students awarded degrees in unique ceremony behind prison walls
The day began like most graduation days with a provost’s breakfast where faculty served soon-to-be Lipscomb graduates. Students talked excitedly with their professors. Photos were taken...
Master of Arts in Christian Ministry will teach TPW residents to minister effectively behind prison walls.
Lipscomb University’s LIFE program (the Lipscomb Initiative for Education), a unique academic experience where traditional students enroll in liberal arts courses...
Old-fashioned communication provides hope for prison residents during pandemic
With most of the world on lockdown, Lipscomb’s most isolated students are receiving encouragement through an old-fashioned form of long-distance communication: handwritten letters....
Tree Of Life, LIFE program collaborate to make impact on community
Lipscomb University’s bookstore partner, the Tree of Life, and the Lipscomb Initiative For Education, known as the LIFE program, are teaming up to help provide tools for a special group of students to accomplish their educational goals...
