TAFT – This week marks a significant milestone for incarcerated women at Eddie Warrior Correctional Center with the opening of the RISE Program. RISE is a transformative cosmetology and barbering school that equips women with valuable skills for life after incarceration.

A ribbon-cutting event was held to commemorate the occasion on Monday. State leaders, local dignitaries, and several Oklahoma legislators attended the celebration, showing their support for expanding vocational opportunities inside correctional facilities. Their presence underscored the importance of programs like RISE in preparing women for successful reentry and strengthening Oklahoma communities.

Founded by Christie Luther, the program is the culmination of a 17year journey inspired by her experiences in the EWCC beauty shop while she was incarcerated. During her time there, Luther felt a divine calling to create a program that empowers women with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed after release.

“I knew it was the Lord’s voice. It was unmistakable,” Luther said at the ribbon-cutting event. “You’re going to come back and start a beauty school here. I said, ‘God, do you see the back of my shirt? It says inmate.’ Today, seeing the full circle moment with my own eyes is one of the greatest gifts ever.”

Under the guidance of dedicated instructors, the first class of about two dozen women is already feeling the impact of this life-changing opportunity.

“I like to make people feel pretty,” inmate Joanna Silva added. “Haircuts make people feel beautiful and I just want to be part of that.”

Participants expressed gratitude and excitement about gaining skills that will improve their employability and promote independence in their lives after incarceration.

“When I first got to prison, it seemed pretty hopeless,” inmate Geneva Phillips said. “I could never have imagined the opportunities I’ve been given in prison. When I get out of prison, I can support myself. This is an opportunity to leave prison after 15 years and go out into the workforce.”

Along with the new EWCC location, the RISE Program has successfully operated at the Mabel Bassett Correctional Center, where over 180 women have completed the training and moved on to join the workforce. Thanks to strong partnerships with local salons, graduates of the program can expect job opportunities after their release.

“The mission at the Department of Corrections is to support and uplift women during and after their incarceration,” said EWCC Warden Christe Sweat. “We are committed to creating a support network like the RISE Program that encourages these women to pursue their dreams and build a brighter future for themselves.”

The RISE Program at EWCC is more than just a school; it’s a lifeline for women working to rebuild their lives and create a future filled with hope and opportunity. For more information about the RISE Program and its impact, visit riseprograminc. com.