The Augustana Prison Education Program (APEP), pioneered by Dr. Sharon Varallo, began this fall at East Moline Correctional Center (EMCC). APEP is a four-year degree program where a select group of men at EMCC will have the opportunity to earn a Bachelor’s degree in communication studies through Augustana. The program is entirely funded by grants, and it was born from Dr. Varallo’s passion for prison reform. The following photos are from Oct. 1 when the Observer was granted special permission to come in while a class at EMCC was in session.

Gallery • 8 Photos

Chris Ferman

Professor Sharon Varallo, left, teaches the class as Brandon Johnson, center, and Tyrone Stone, right, listen attentively on Oct. 1, 2021.