How the Prison Fellowship Academy transforms lives in Oklahoma

Several women at Mabel Bassett Correctional Center will walk on a new path for themselves and their families. The Prison Fellowship Academy guides people out of darkness and into a brighter future.  

“It’s a big accomplishment,” said Grace Buffalohead, who graduated from the Prison Fellowship Academy.  

On Wednesday, 22 women with 22 stories gathered as one. 

“You are the change makers of the community you will eventually end up in,” said Tammy Franklin, the director of Prison Fellowship, as she spoke to Mabel Bassett’s graduates. 

Inside the walls of Mabel Bassett Correctional Center, uncertainty for inmates is part of their story – but it’s not the final act. 

“Know that if we get above those clouds, that sky is always blue,” said Secretary Tricia Everest with the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety, encouraging the group. 

The Prison Fellowship Academy helps people inside Oklahoma’s prisons reflect on their past and emerge with clear eyes. The organization helps those who are incarcerated overcome their mistakes and grow as people through a Christian-centered rehabilitation program.  

Grace Buffalohead struggled with addiction – it's why she’s here. She overcame it, and she was not alone. 

“All I knew was chaos, not only on others but myself as well,” Buffalohead said. “It takes a surrounding of support and to come together to change an atmosphere.” 

Pearl bracelets these women made represented the beauty they produced under tremendous pressure. 

“There’s been a lot of tears, there’s been a lot of healing,” Buffalohead said.  

A moment possible through commitment and heart. 

“I’m filled with so much joy,” Buffalohead said.  

Buffalohead said she discovered freedom behind bars. She also found love.  

“It feels good because...because I never felt loved before,” Buffalohead said. “So, to have it here with these ladies, it’s amazing, and it means the most.” 

When these ladies leave the Mabel Bassett campus, they will plant fresh roots. 

“It’s like, ‘I did it.’ Now, what’s next?” Buffalohead said. 

That is a question only Buffalohead can answer, but it’s a question she gets to answer because she chose to grow on her life journey. Buffalohead said she also got her GED, and she can't wait to use it when she begins her new life. 

“Very proud of myself,” Buffalohead said.