NE North Dakota News

For the nearly 450,000 individuals released from state and federal prisons annually, reintegration into society poses significant challenges. This was the focus of December's "Prisoner Reentry Simulation" held at the UND Memorial Union’s Henry Family Ballroom. The event was part of a series of presentations by students from the College of Arts & Sciences’ Undergraduate Showcase.

Meghan Mitchell, an assistant professor of Criminal Justice Studies, emphasized the importance of understanding and addressing these challenges. With approximately 95% of the nation's incarcerated population expected to be released eventually, Mitchell highlighted that successful reentry is crucial for both former prisoners and taxpayers. "The more successful they are in reentering society, the less money we as taxpayers are going to spend on apprehending them and locking them up," she stated.

Mitchell pointed out that after decades of mass incarceration driven by tough-on-crime policies, America is experiencing what some scholars call a "de-carceration era." This shift requires communities to reconsider their role in helping former inmates reintegrate successfully. She posed critical questions about societal responsibilities towards these individuals: “They’re going to become our neighbors and our colleagues, so what responsibility do we have in helping them successfully reintegrate?”

Participants in the simulation experienced firsthand the obstacles faced by those reentering society. They navigated tasks such as meeting parole officers, obtaining identification documents, finding housing and employment, buying groceries, and maintaining sobriety—all while dealing with limited resources.

National statistics indicate that many formerly incarcerated individuals have low educational levels and face additional hurdles like mental health issues and social stigma. These factors contribute to what Mitchell described as a "perfect storm" complicating their transition back into society.

During the simulation exercise led by Mitchell's students enrolled in her “Introduction to Corrections” course, participants assumed roles based on fictional life scenarios involving various parole requirements. Psychology major Jordan Nichols shared his experience: “I felt very clueless about what I was supposed to do.” He noted how lack of guidance can be a significant barrier for those recently released from prison.

Sophomore Alimath Salou explained North Dakota’s unique challenge—being one of only two states not providing gate money for prisoner reintegration—adding further complexity for those trying to start anew without adequate support systems.

Madison Lyman expressed concern over societal obstacles facing ex-offenders seeking employment opportunities post-release: “You have a 40% chance of not being hired just because of your felony record,” she said while reflecting on her role designing an impossible Jenga task representing job service difficulties within their simulated environment.

Mitchell aimed for this immersive exercise not only as an educational tool but also as means for fostering awareness around interagency collaboration needed among organizations serving justice system populations—a vital component often lacking yet essential when aiding individuals transitioning out from incarceration settings back into everyday life routines effectively.