Meet Amy Doty, the Dean of Correctional Education at Southeast Community College (southeast.edu).
Tell us a little about your business. – I have the privilege of leading the UPWARD prison education program at Southeast Community College where we help students from all walks of life find their “path to possible.” The UPWARD program and Correctional Education division launched in January 2024 to continue our open access mission and meet students where they are to offer the transformative power of education. We serve incarcerated Nebraskans in four facilities in our service area by offering two-year degree pathways in Academic Transfer and Business; Certificates in Construction and Electrical Technology through a partnership with the Lowe’s Foundation; continuing education courses; Professional Truck Driving (CDL); and a new apprenticeship opportunity in the Culinary industry through a partnership with Ybor, the American Job Center of Lancaster and Saunders County, and the Department of Labor.
How did you get started in the business? – My journey into this work has been shaped by a deep commitment to education, justice, and community. Before joining the college system, I spent five years as a restorative justice workshop facilitator with the Community Justice Center, where I witnessed firsthand the power of accountability, healing, and transformation. That experience laid the foundation for my passion for education as a tool for change. I later transitioned into higher education, teaching ESL, Civics, and Citizenship at Central Community College. From there, I had the privilege of teaching English at three of Nebraska’s outstanding community colleges, including at the Nebraska Correctional Center for Women in York. Through that experience, I saw the profound impact of education in correctional settings—a realization that would shape the trajectory of my career. In early 2017, I accepted a full-time faculty position at Southeast Community College, and from the moment I arrived, I knew I had found my professional home. SCC has provided me with incredible opportunities for growth, from serving on committees and leadership teams to co-chairing the English Department. Now, as an administrator, I have the privilege of leading in what has become the most fulfilling chapter of my career—helping to expand access to education for justice-involved individuals and witnessing the life-changing impact of second chances.
Who inspires you? – I’m currently working toward completing my Doctorate in Education, and I draw immense inspiration from the incredible women I know who have paved the way before me. These women have not only built remarkable careers and pursued their passions but have also balanced the demands of family, leadership, and personal growth—all while achieving the rigorous milestone of a doctoral degree. Their resilience, determination, and ability to excel in multiple facets of life inspire me every day as I continue on my own journey.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – Lincoln is home to so many incredible nonprofit organizations, and I am deeply passionate about those that serve the reentry community. In my role, I’ve had the privilege of partnering with several that are especially close to my heart: RISE Reentry Program, the Community Justice Center, the Mental Health Association, Ybor Second Chance Kitchen, the Center for People, and Bridges to Hope. It’s an honor to support and collaborate with them in this shared mission.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – You can connect with me at (402)437-2509 or adoty@southeast.edu; I’d love to hear from you!