Robert Rays College Fund

Hello, my name is Robert Ray,

Seven years ago, I enrolled in Adams State University in pursuit of a degree in history. On the day of my first exam, I was told that I had to drop out. The reason was simply because death row inmates are not afforded the privilege of obtaining college degrees. On February 1st of this year, I enrolled in Trinidad State Junior College in hopes of obtaining an associate degree. I completed both assignments in my history and English class. While working on my next week’s assignments inside my cell, the teacher in charge of collecting my homework knocked on my door and said “I have bad news” I intuitively knew before he even said it. I was kicked out. My heart sank. He told me my Pell grant was denied because I do not currently have a parole date. So basically, someone with a life sentence does not have the privilege to earn a degree.

Throughout my entire life I have been told in so many words as well as through their actions, that I do not matter. Since I have been incarcerated, I have educated myself and I have also written and published several children’s books on Amazon, but I am hungry for more. I desire a higher education, and I so badly would love to earn a degree. I would be the first in my family to do so. It would make me so proud and I believe it would inspire others. Can you help me pay for my tuition? As soon as I earn my degree, I will proudly post it so you can see.

Thank you,

Robert Ray