Resilience Education

Resilience Education is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization focused on breaking the cycle of incarceration by improving the economic mobility of formerly incarcerated individuals. This is achieved through high-quality business education and post-release support.

Mission

The organization’s mission is to equip currently and formerly incarcerated individuals with the social capital needed to forge new career pathways. It does this by providing business and financial education, which greatly enhances employability and reduces the likelihood of reoffending. Resilience Education emphasizes the importance of education in reducing recidivism rates, noting that individuals who complete in-prison education are 43% less likely to re-offend.

Programs and Initiatives

• Curriculum and Partnerships: Resilience Education partners with correctional facilities and leading business schools such as the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, Columbia Business School, and The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. The organization creates business and law school partnerships to deliver effective education to incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals.
• Employment and Reentry Support: The organization provides comprehensive support from incarceration through to post-release. This includes mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and career development resources to help individuals successfully reintegrate into society.
• Digital Platforms: Resilience Education aims to expand its reach through digital platforms designed to support formerly incarcerated people in their reentry journeys. The organization collaborates with other entities to refine its digital presence and enhance user experience.

Impact

As of early data, 93% of Resilience Education’s program graduates remained out of prison for at least three years, showcasing the effectiveness of the organization’s initiatives. The organization has graduated over 500 individuals from correctional facilities across New York and Virginia.

Funding and Recognition

In 2024, Resilience Education received a $2.5 million grant from the Ascendium Education Group. This grant supports the expansion of Resilience Education’s network of business schools, employer partners, and correctional facilities to empower more individuals as they reenter society.

Governance

Resilience Education is led by Tierney Fairchild, Ph.D., who serves as Co-founder and Executive Director. The organization's Board of Directors includes experts in business, finance, and law, providing strategic guidance for its development.

Community Impact

Resilience Education plays a significant role in addressing systemic challenges by activating the business community to support formerly incarcerated individuals. Through its work, the organization aims to change narratives around the potential of these individuals and provide them with business acumen and practical skills to increase employability.