On June 16, more than 100 guests gathered in the historic Hall of Flags at the Connecticut State Capitol for Celebrate! CPA Prison Arts 2025—a powerful evening honoring creativity, resilience, and second chances.
The event brought together longtime friends, new supporters, and community partners for a deeply meaningful celebration of artistic expression behind prison walls.
Guests explored a curated exhibition featuring visual art by women from York Correctional Institution and the poignant Letters from Prison installation. These personal reflections—written by incarcerated individuals—were brought to life through emotional readings by staff and alumni of CPA’s Prison Arts Program. As the letters were shared, the room grew still. Tears were shed. Listeners were visibly moved. Each tribute reminded us of the transformative power of being heard.
CPA Executive Director Beth Hines emceed the evening with warmth and clarity, setting the tone for an unforgettable night. With the Capitol officially closed to the public, the Hall of Flags offered a unique and personal atmosphere for the evening’s reflections and connections.
We were honored to welcome former Governor Dannel Malloy, Connecticut’s 88th governor and a steadfast champion of justice reform, joined by his wife Kathy Malloy, a longtime supporter of CPA. The Hon. Maureen Price-Boreland, Judge of the Superior Court and former CPA Executive Director, delivered special remarks recognizing Governor Malloy’s leadership and his 2018 nomination of her to the bench.
A highlight of the evening was the debut of four new inspirational posters created through the ArtsHERE grant, awarded to CPA last fall by the National Endowment for the Arts. These striking posters now hang in all Connecticut state prisons and encourage incarcerated individuals to build their futures—both inside and beyond prison—by engaging with the Prison Arts Program.
Guests also enjoyed a vibrant silent auction, with proceeds directly supporting the program. We extend our sincere thanks to the many generous organizations and individuals who donated auction items and to our 150th Anniversary sponsors, whose continued support makes events like this possible.
CPA also gratefully recognizes Louis Lista—renowned restaurateur and owner of Pond House Café at Elizabeth Park, philanthropist, and dear friend—for his extraordinary generosity as a 150th Anniversary Founder Sponsor. His enduring commitment to second chances continues to inspire our work.
If you missed the event but would like to support the Prison Arts Program or contribute where the need is greatest, please consider making a gift at www.cpa-ct.org/donate.
Together, we are transforming lives through creativity, community, and hope.
