On a spring afternoon in Williamsport, hope took center stage. The Lycoming County GEO Reentry Program just graduated its largest class in history, 67 individuals, each with a story of struggle, perseverance, and transformation.
The Community Theatre League buzzed with energy as graduates, their families, county officials, and program staff gathered to celebrate the end of a structured journey designed to help people rebuild after incarceration. Each graduate crossed the stage to collect a diploma, along with a grab bag and a bamboo plant, a fitting symbol of resilience and growth.
Nicole English, the program manager, kicked off the ceremony with pride. “It tells us that transformation is possible, that when people are given support, structure, opportunity and belief, lives can change,” she told the crowd.
Support and encouragement came from every direction. County Commissioner Mark Mussina urged graduates to surround themselves with people who believe in their potential. Chief Probation Officer David Goodwin spoke to the visible proof of change: “I see people with new jobs. I see sober, confident, strong people.” Quoting Viktor Frankl, he reminded everyone that while circumstances may be out of our control, our attitude and response are always in our hands.
John Stahl, Deputy Chief, reflected on the 12-year partnership between the county jail and GEO Reentry Services, praising the staff as an extension of his own office. Each participant completed a structured curriculum blending cognitive behavioral treatment, life skills, employment readiness, and ongoing case management. The program’s alumni echoed a consistent theme: transformation is possible when structure meets compassion. David Trice, who spent 40 years battling addiction, told the room, “Reentry saved my life. Thank God for reentry.” Zada Vaughn, 27, shared her journey through the program nine times before it finally clicked. “This last time I took myself seriously. I’m a true testimony.” Nicole Berry, now a business owner, credited the foundation she built with GEO Reentry for her success: “It taught me how to live again.”
Other graduates spoke of moments when they nearly gave up, and how a single decision to stay changed the course of their lives. Daisy Edmonds, now enrolled at Pennsylvania College of Technology, and David Follmer, who started using drugs at 13, both described the support systems including sponsors, staff, and community that helped them find recovery and a sense of purpose.
As each name was called, hugs were exchanged and tears flowed. The bond between graduates was palpable, especially for couples like Johnathan and Tamara Roth, who completed the program side-by-side and were cheered on by their daughter.
The event closed with remarks from Kelsey McAndrew, an alumna and now assistant care manager. She spoke with emotion about her own journey, from participant to staff, and the privilege of witnessing others succeed: “You are no longer defined by where you have been, but instead by the direction you are headed. Choose wisely.”
After the ceremony, the celebration continued at the GEO Lycoming County Reentry Service Center at 1544 East Third Street Williamsport, PA. There were laughs, stories, and a sense that for these 67 graduates, this was just the beginning.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026, who have shown that second chances can lead to extraordinary new beginnings.
>> READ Coverage of the Lycoming County RSC Graduation.
Learn more about GEO Reentry Services: www.GEOreentry.com
FAQ Section
What is the GEO Reentry Program in Lycoming County?
The GEO Reentry Program is a structured, evidence-based community corrections initiative in Lycoming County that helps individuals formerly incarcerated transition back into society through case management, employment support, and cognitive behavioral treatment.
How does the program reduce recidivism?
By combining cognitive behavioral treatment, employment readiness, and close case management, the program addresses underlying causes of criminal behavior and supports sustained recovery, reducing the likelihood of re-offending.
What are the benefits for county governments and corrections agencies?
Programs like GEO Reentry reduce jail overcrowding, lower the cost of incarceration per day, and facilitate successful workforce reentry, enhancing public safety and local economies.
Are these results typical?
Lycoming’s success is part of a growing trend. Studies and reports from national research show that evidence-based reentry programs consistently outperform punitive models in reducing recidivism.
How can other counties replicate this model?
Counties can partner with established providers like GEO Reentry Services, invest in evidence-based practices, and foster collaboration across corrections, workforce, and behavioral health agencies.