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Commonwealth University-Mansfield criminal justice students visit Allenwood Federal Penitentiary

MANSFIELD, PA (11/25/2024) — A contingent of 12 Commonwealth University-Mansfield students, accompanied by Dr. Justin Crowl, associate professor of criminal justice, toured Allenwood Federal Penitentiary in early November. The prison is part of a federal correctional complex, which consists of three facilities - FCI Low, FCI Medium and USP Allenwood, a high-security facility.

The prison is managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), a division of the U.S. Department of Justice.

The tour was led by Charles Hanks and Dustin Thomas, senior officer specialists, and Dr. Laura Ennis, psychologist. Students were shown different parts of the prison, including receiving and dispatch, health services (medical), education, the dining hall and recreation. They were also able to view a housing unit in addition to the compound or prison yard.

This was the first time that most of the students had ever visited a federal prison. The experience was enriching and insightful - students were able to see the reality of prison while there.

"We are very proud of the strong partnership we have with FCC Allenwood," Crowl said. "I often contact them to inquire about site visits as we strive to connect students with criminal justice professionals with whom they can network with and learn from. Prison staff have always been very accommodating and quick to help in any way they can. They represent the best of the best - their professionalism, dedication to people and passion for the job is unmatched."

Allenwood is helping to transform corrections with its emphasis on rehabilitation and prison programming. The goal behind this approach is to ensure that inmates successfully reenter society once released and become productive, law-abiding citizens.

While at the prison, students were able to interact with several staff including Nathaniel Yarnell, complex supervisor of education; Shannon Walker, life sakills lab treatment specialist; Terra Sechrist, assistant health services administration; and Ryan Schuck, recreation specialist.

Students also heard from Ryan Miller, acting warden; Todd Wertman, associate warden; Sloane Keys, acting captain; Greg Easton, executive assistant; and Jeff Vargeson, human resources manager. Staff talked to students about careers available at the prison, benefits of the job and the hiring process. Students were encouraged to apply.

Students who went on the tour included Samantha Albright, of Dushore; Justin Borrero, of Stroudsburg; Grace Brunell, of Schwenksville; Quintessa Byfield, of Swiftwater; Cassidy Clarke, of Philadelphia; Mikaela Dioguardi, of Limestone, New York; Erika Haag, of Williamsport; Sandra Lemus, of Long Branch, New Jersey; Anissa Lytle, of York; Brock Mayer, of Williamsport; Cana Riley, of Cogan Station; and Taylor Watkins, of Jersey Shore.