STEP UP
Success Through Educational Pathways in the Upper Peninsula, LSSU’s Prison Education Program
STEP UP is Lake Superior State University’s prison education program at Chippewa Correctional Facility in Kincheloe, Michigan. The program brings college learning into the facility, giving incarcerated students opportunities to earn degrees, build confidence, and work toward their goals.
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August 4, 2026 - Our First Graduating Class
Lake Superior State University celebrated a historic milestone, as fifteen students graduated from the STEP UP program (Success Through Educational Pathways in the Upper Peninsula) during a commencement ceremony held at the Chippewa Correctional Facility.
Fall 2024 - BUSN 121 - Introduction to Business
Dr. Lynn Gillette teaches The Icebreakers in their first ever business class in the LSSU classroom at Chippewa Correctional Facility.
Fall 2024 Convocation
Patricia L. Caruso addresses the inaugural STEP UP class. Ms. Caruso is the Chair of the LSSU Board of Trustees. Her experience with the Department of Corrections began in 1988, appointed as the Director of the Department in 2003 by Governor Jennifer Granholm, retiring from MDOC in 2011. Ms. Caruso remains active in a number of professional correctional organizations.
Dr. David Travis, LSSU President, gives Mr. Turner his Associate in Small Business Administration
Mr. Turner, a member of the STEP UP program’s 2024 cohort, plans to earn his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Entrepreneurship in August 2028.
August, 4 2025 - LSSU STEP UP Convocation
Cohort 2, The Beacons of Light, on the day they were each welcomed to Lake Superior State University.
Mr. Cordell receives his LSSU acceptance letter from President Travis
He plans to graduate in 2029 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Entrepreneurship. Mr. Cordell also serves on the STEP UP Student Voice Council.
Heidi E. Washington, Director of the Michigan Department of Corrections
Director Washington addresses the Class of 2026; she is a strong supporter of higher education within the MDOC system.
The STEP UP Music Club performs LSSU’s alma mater and the national anthem at the 2026 Commencement ceremony
Founded by Kelsey Emmanuel in January 2026, the club offers students opportunities to learn, create, and connect through music. Since commencement, Ms. Emmanuel has secured a grant to expand the club’s musical experiences, opening new opportunities for our students.
Academic Opportunities
Students pursue an associate degree in Small Business Administration and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Entrepreneurship. Coursework helps students develop practical business knowledge, critical thinking, and communication skills.
Program Highlights
LSSU faculty and staff support students through classroom instruction, tutoring, and advising. Students learn alongside their peers, encourage one another, and build a community committed to academic success.
In 2026, STEP UP celebrated its first commencement at Chippewa Correctional Facility. Fifteen students earned associate degrees in Small Business Administration—a milestone reflecting their dedication, persistence, and hard work.
Learning and connection extend beyond coursework. Through the STEP UP Music Club, students explore music and share their talents. The STEP UP Student Voice Council gives students opportunities to contribute ideas and help shape the program. The STEP UP Business Book Club encourages collaboration, thoughtful discussion, and connections between business concepts and real-world experiences.
Affiliations
MiCHEP: Michigan Consortium for Higher Education in Prison
The Michigan Consortium for Higher Education (MiCHEP) is a collaborative organization of Michigan colleges and universities that works to help incarcerated people earn college degrees. LSSU has been a member since 2024.
Correctional Education Association
The Correctional Education Association is a professional association of educators and administrators working in adult and juvenile correctional settings all over the world.
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Lake Superior State University has around 2,000 students giving it the distinction of Michigan’s smallest public university.
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