Cowley College Honors 38 Graduates at Winfield Correctional Facility

Cowley College honored 38 residents at the Kansas Department of Corrections’ Winfield Correctional Facility on Thursday, February 19, 2026, during a graduation ceremony recognizing diplomas and certificates earned during the Fall 2025 semester.

The ceremony celebrated the hard work and determination of students who completed high school equivalency requirements and technical training programs while incarcerated, reinforcing Cowley College’s commitment to providing accessible educational opportunities and building Kansas’ workforce.

Of the 38 graduates recognized, 10 residents earned their high school diplomas, with three of those students also completing a technical certification simultaneously. In addition, six residents earned a Technical A Certificate in Construction Trades, 12 residents earned a Technical A Certificate in Electromechanical Maintenance, and 13 residents earned a Technical A Certificate in Welding Technology. These programs equip students with industry-relevant skills designed to support employment opportunities upon reentry into the workforce.

In addition to program completions, one student in the Adult Education program was awarded a scholarship based on outstanding test scores. The scholarship provides $250 per semester for four semesters to be applied toward post-secondary coursework at Cowley College, creating a pathway for continued education after release.

Academic excellence was also recognized among the technical program graduates. Nine graduates earned placement on the Dean’s Honor Roll, achieving a grade-point average between 3.5 and 3.99 on a 4.0 scale with a minimum of 12 completed credit hours. Six graduates earned placement on the President’s Honor Roll, achieving a perfect 4.0 grade-point average on a 4.0 scale with a minimum of 12 completed credit hours.

College representatives commended the graduates for their perseverance and dedication to self-improvement. By offering high school completion, career and technical education, and pathways to post-secondary coursework, Cowley College continues to equip students with the skills necessary to reenter their communities as productive, career-ready citizens.

Hunter Ferguson | Integrated Communications Specialist
Cowley College
125 S. 2nd Street
Arkansas City, KS 67005
hunter.ferguson@cowley.edu