For the Star Journal
RHINELANDER – For the first time ever, a jailed inmate has received Student of the Year honors from the Academic Success program at Nicolet College.
David Brogli earned the award recently while incarcerated in the Oneida County Jail.

“David demonstrates a true commitment to education, both his own and that of others, despite huge obstacles in his way,” said his Academic Success Instructor Darlene Machtan. “I am so impressed by this 40-something who is determined to improve not just his future, but through example, the future of his children, as well as a former stranger facing enormous academic limitations.”

In addition to his own studies, Brogli voluntarily tutors a fellow inmate in reading, math and financial literacy. Through his efforts, his peer’s reading and math skills have improved dramatically, Machtan noted.

Brogli said he plans to enroll in the Nicolet’s Substance Use Disorder Counselor program upon his release.

“I would like to thank the Nicolet College faculty and the Oneida County Jail for giving me the opportunity to make this crazy dream a reality,” Brogli said. “I have tried my best and worked my hardest each day to show my thanks to everyone involved. I am so grateful and also blessed.”

The Academic Success program at Nicolet offers free instruction for individuals preparing to attend college, build academic skills for the workplace, earn a GED or HSED, learn basic computer skills, or learn to speak English.