The resolution congratulates the Southern State Correctional Facility (SSCF) debate team for their victory in the National Prison Debate League (NPDL) against a team from Wake Forest University. This achievement is part of an innovative educational initiative that involved a semester-long course on collegiate debate, which aimed to enhance critical thinking, creativity, and personal agency among incarcerated individuals. The SSCF team engaged in a virtual debate on the Norwegian Model of Corrections, which emphasizes rehabilitation, and their performance was evaluated by independent judges who ultimately declared them the winners.
The resolution highlights the transformative power of education as emphasized by Commissioner of Corrections Nicholas Deml and reflects the success of the NPDL's curriculum, which focuses on civic engagement, empowerment, and conflict resolution. It recognizes the dedication and hard work of the SSCF debaters and the positive impact of such programs on reducing recidivism and reshaping lives. The General Assembly expresses its congratulations and directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to relevant officials and team members.