Twelve women graduated from the Prison Fellowship Academy (PFA) at the Nebraska Correctional Center for Women (NCCW) on April 10.
This was the first women's PFA graduation in the country.
"You guys are truly making a difference now and you will continue to make a difference throughout your entire lives," Warden Denise Davidson told graduates at the ceremony.
Audience members included PFA and NDCS executives, volunteers who helped teach PFA classes and prospective students for the next class.
"I challenge you to take what you've learned in this program, and be a model, be a beacon for others at this facility," said Mike Rothwell, deputy director for programs at the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS).
Graduates joined together for prayer, song and celebration on Tuesday, some sharing a few words about their personal journeys.
"When I first arrived at NCCW, I had lost hope and had lost my faith," graduate Sarah Cullen said. "This past year has been more beneficial and impactful than any other. This year has taught me that God's idea of justice is not destruction, but restoration."