Six employees awarded top honors
SPRINGFIELD - Governor Bruce Rauner today joined Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) and the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) for a combined ceremony with the Illinois Correctional Employees’ Memorial Association (ICEMA) to recognize the departments’ past and present heroes.
"Correctional and law enforcement officers face tremendous challenges and risk every day. I am honored to recognize the brave men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice," said Governor Rauner. “This Memorial Wall serves as a physical reminder of their sacrifice. It’s a place of reverence and deep gratitude for the entire state to recognize their bravery and courage.”
The ceremony honored the memory of IDOC and IDJJ fallen heroes who died in the line of duty. The Memorial Wall serves as a lasting tribute to their memory. The agencies also recognized the outstanding contributions of their current staff. Nearly 75 employees were nominated by their colleagues and supervisors to receive the highest honor of Correctional Officer of the Year, Parole Agent of the Year, Corrections Employee of the Year, Juvenile Justice Specialist of the Year, Juvenile Justice Aftercare Specialist of the Year and Juvenile Justice Program Staff of the Year.
The overall winners were chosen by each of the departments' executive staff. The nominees were judged on leadership, initiative, professionalism and service to their community and career.
IDOC Acting Director John Baldwin and IDJJ Director Heidi Mueller commended the efforts of correctional staff within their respective agencies.
“National Correctional Officers and Employees Week recognizes the excellence of correctional employees throughout the U.S.,” Baldwin said. “The employees being honored today play a significant role in building and shaping the future of the Illinois Department of Corrections. We are inspired by their professional strengths that help us meet the goals of our mission. The agency commends its correctional staff and honors its fallen heroes for their commitment to public safety, bravery and leadership to the State of Illinois.”
“The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice is committed to helping youth rehabilitate and promoting positive outcomes through effective programming,” said Mueller. “The employees being recognized today are commended for their positive impact and commitment to helping youth in our care successfully return to their communities. Staff works diligently to encourage youth in making the right choices and building on their strengths as well as teaching new skills to youth in a safe learning and treatment environment.”
Video of the event can be found here.
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