FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 23, 2012

Contact: Communications Office
kdocpub@doc.ks.gov
(785) 215-2857

KDOC 2012 Employee of the Year Winners Announced

The 2012 Kansas Department of Corrections Employees and Volunteer of the Year were announced by Governor Sam Brownback and KDOC Secretary Ray Roberts recently during special ceremonies at the Kansas Statehouse. Employees were nominated for each of the awards by their peers and the winners were chosen by a special panel from the KDOC Central Office. Here is a list of the winners and a brief synopsis for each:

Uniformed Employee of the Year  -  Kathy Repstine, Corrections Officer at the El Dorado Correctional Facility

CO Repstine has become a very dependable, security minded, and determined corrections officer since joining EDCF in 2001. Her diligence in searching inmates and monitoring their communications helps ensure the safety of the staff and inmates.

Non-uniformed Employee of the Year  -  Rosilan Watts, Job/Cognitive Specialist, Pittsburg Parole Office

Rosilan’s work in the Pittsburg Parole Office demonstrates her commitment and dedication to the Kansas Department of Corrections and to the citizens of Kansas. She brings a clear approach to her work and empowers her clients to believe and achieve.

Contract Employee of the Year  -  Brian Adkinson, CCS Clinical Social Worker, Lansing Correctional Facility

Brian brings tremendous energy to his work and the staff knows they can count on him in serious situations. His pleasant demeanor and positive way to consider almost any situation is considered contagious. 

Volunteer of the Year  -  Dave Cox, Ellsworth Correctional Facility

Dave is a vital and active partner in the Ellsworth Correctional Facility’s Reentry initiative by serving as a private industry employer for 20 minimum custody inmates. Dave is also a key supporter of the ECF Spiritual Life Center and its programs.

Community Corrections Employee of the Year  -  Valerie Meade, Risk Reduction Coordinator, Johnson County Corrections

In her nomination Valerie was described as a “wonderful colleague” constantly striving to improve the operations of the agency. She provides regular, constructive feedback in a way that encourages change rather than being critical of mistakes

Champion of Justice Award, sponsored by KDOC Victim Services  -  Tammy Richardson, Lawrence Parole Office

Tammy supervises high-risk offenders and works hard to hold them accountable for their actions. She is skillful at confronting offenders to gain needed information without compromising the safety of victims. Because of Tammy’s attitude and approach to supervision, victims are safer in their communities.

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