From Incarceration to Inspiration: Sara’s Journey of Education, Reentry, and Leadership

This year, we proudly honor a remarkable milestone in the Bridges Reentry community. Sara, a graduate of our Beyond the Gates mentoring program, has transformed her life with courage, commitment, and the support of a sisterhood that believed in her every step of the way.  

In July, Sara earned her bachelor’s degree in communications from Walden University — an achievement made possible through the partnership between Bridges Reentry and Walden University to provide scholarships for women in our mentoring and residential programs. But Sara’s success is far more than academic. Her story is one of connection, perseverance, and purpose.

The Power of a Letter

Sara’s journey with Bridges began inside prison, when she was the beneficiary of the Bridges Pen Pal Program and was paired with her mentor, Pam. Over three years, Pam and Sara exchanged letters filled with honesty, hope, and unwavering faith prior to her release and becoming a Mentee in the Beyond The Gates Mentoring Program where she and Pam continue with their Mentor - Mentee relationship.  “Pam pushed me and loved me the whole time,” Sara says. “That's Mom. I'm the adoptive daughter.”  The bond they formed became her foundation — a relationship rooted in encouragement and accountability that helped Sara stay focused on her future.

A Graduate, a Leader, and a Role Model

After her release, Sara joined Beyond the Gates Mentoring, continued her studies, and worked tirelessly — displaying the grit and heart that define so many women in our community.

Her work ethic and academic excellence caught the attention of Walden University leadership. She was invited to interview for a role, and today Sara serves as a Student Success Advisor for undergraduate students — supporting more than 450 students each quarter. She has been in the position for over five months and is thriving — giving back the guidance and encouragement she once received.

And in a full-circle moment, Sara now leads the Bridges Pen Pal Program, the very program that changed her life. “It was the beginning for me,” she shares. “I am passionate about the power of pen pals in prison.”

Rebuilding Family and Future

Sara’s success extends beyond professional achievement. She recently celebrated her one-year wedding anniversary with her partner, whom she met during recovery in 2023. She has reunited with her children and grandchildren, and she and her husband now have guardianship of his 16-year-old daughter — who is preparing for college herself.  Education, healing, and hope are now a family legacy.

A Story of Hope, Connection, and Possibility

Sara’s transformation is a testament to what is possible when women are supported, seen, and believed in. Her journey represents:

  • The power of education

  • The impact of mentorship and relationships

  • The strength of recovery and healing

  • The life-changing effect of second chances

From a prison cell to a college campus.
From a pen-pal letter to leading a program.
From separation to family unity.
From doubt to leadership and purpose.

Sara is proof that when women rise, families rise — and communities rise.

We are incredibly proud of her, and deeply grateful to partners like Walden University who help make stories like hers possible.

Gay Romack