Kelsey C Prince
Kelsey Prince, Ph.D., serves as the Supervisor of Education at a correctional institution in Minnesota, where she leads innovative educational initiatives designed to support incarcerated women. With a strong belief in the transformative power of education, Kelsey has implemented a wide range of programs, from vocational training to post-secondary degree opportunities. Under her leadership, the institution has achieved a notably high graduation rate among female inmates—an achievement that reflects both her strategic planning and dedication to rehabilitation through learning.
Kelsey’s work goes beyond the classroom. She plays a key role in building partnerships with external organizations to expand the scope of educational programming available within the correctional facility. These collaborations have introduced unique resources and opportunities that many inmates would not otherwise have access to, further underscoring her commitment to equity in education. Her ability to bridge institutional needs with community support has been essential in creating sustainable and impactful programming.
A lifelong advocate for accessible education, Kelsey brings a scholarly and empathetic approach to her work. Her leadership continues to create pathways for growth, self-sufficiency, and hope among those navigating the criminal justice system. With a passion for service and a vision for change, Kelsey remains dedicated to reshaping correctional education and empowering individuals through meaningful learning experiences.
Further, Kelsey has recently expanded her love for learning and continual growth into her new business The Tipsy Bookmark, LLC. The bookshop is currently on-line. Kelsey works with Indie authors to bring their books to her community and beyond. Her bookshop specializes in signed editions of books written by Indie authors, as well as merchandise to complement the books she offers.
• Teaching License
• PhD
• MBA
• AA
• BS
• Epilepsy Foundation
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a strong commitment to expanding access to education and creating meaningful opportunities for personal growth—especially in underserved populations. While managing educational programs at a federal correctional institution, I focused on introducing new learning initiatives that not only supported inmate rehabilitation but also helped individuals see their potential beyond incarceration. Coordinating with external partners and operational teams, I was able to build programs that were both impactful and sustainable. That experience taught me the value of perseverance, collaboration, and the belief that education can be a powerful catalyst for change.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received has been to "make them tell you no". Do not be afraid to ask questions for fear the answer is no. To implement change, you have to be willing to fail, think creatively, and always return to the drawing board. The worst thing you can do is to not try at all.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The best advice I could provide to young women entering the industry is to emphasize your mental well-being first. You are unable to be a force for change and positivity, if you yourself are suffering. The correctional and educational field increasingly lead to burn-out due to the pressure to constantly be "on". It is ok to not be perfect every single day but seek to find one positive thing in each day.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges facing my field right now would be understaffing and constant changes to how law and policy are to be implemented in the field.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity is extremely important to me in both my personal and work life. It is imperative to understand that doing the right thing is not always easy, but it should still be done.
Locations
The Tipsy Bookmark, LLC
Albert Lea, MN 56007