Learning Is Hot: A First-Time Volunteer’s Reflection on PEP
When Rice University student Juliana accepted an invitation to visit the Prison Entrepreneurship Program, they didn’t expect to spend the day dancing, laughing, and judging business pitches inside a Texas prison. Their essay, “Learning Is Hot — What if Prison Was… Fun?”, captures the heart of what makes PEP different: a culture of accountability, vulnerability, […]
Accountability: The Value That Anchors Transformation
As the Estes Fall 2025 class prepares for their Business Plan Competition and Graduation this Friday, one theme has emerged as their most impactful Driving Value: accountability. This isn’t just a word to them, it’s a way of life. It’s a daily commitment, a mirror that reflects truth, and a foundation upon which they are rebuilding their futures. […]
October 2025 Newsletter
A few weeks ago, I joined the men at Covington, one of our transition homes in Houston, for dinner. It was a wonderful opportunity to discuss their experience of re-entering our community, which feels like one of the most difficult things a person can do. Everything feels like an emergency, and nothing moves as fast […]
September 2025 Newsletter
Dear PEP family and friends, Over the past six months, I have received many great suggestions but one consistent message: communicate often and reinforce the PEP culture. Of course, much has changed in six months. Originally hired as PEP’s Chief Development Officer, I now find myself serving as the CEO (no longer interim as was […]
Bell Fall 2025 Pitch Day Recap
Bell Fall 2025 Pitch Day Recap
