MEDIA RELEASE

May 12, 2016                                                                

Contact:
Cindy Reno, LJCF Public Information Coordinator
(620) 285-0300, ext. 107
Cindy.Stejskal@doc.ks.gov

LJCF Recognizes Employees of the Quarter

The Larned Juvenile Correctional Facility (LJCF) is pleased to announce the employees of the quarter for the months of January, February, and March, 2016.  These individuals were selected from nominations submitted by their peers; nominees are chosen based upon factors including job performance, dependability, competence, initiative, work ethic, and achievement. 

Mary Ann Haynes, administrative specialist, was selected as the Non-Uniformed Employee of the Quarter.  Haynes was nominated for consistently performing in an exceptional manner while carrying out a myriad of tasks on behalf of LJCF employees. Her conscientious attention to detail in completing the payroll process ensures that staff’s pay is both timely and accurate. Her ability to correlate entries in state payroll and retirement systems results in staff receiving all the benefits to which they are entitled.  In addition, she has been very diligent in collecting performance and position description review forms for all staff.  LJCF’s success in maintaining its staffing numbers is due, in part, to the responsiveness Haynes has shown in contacting applicants, scheduling interviews and collaborating with other departments to arrange pre-employment processing. Haynes’s co-workers say her kindness, compassion and helpful demeanor fosters trust, which makes staff feel comfortable in going to her for help.  She is considered a true asset to LJCF's human resources division and to LJCF.

Haynes began her public service career in Kansas in June of 1978 when she began working as a clerk typist for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and for the Kansas Fish and Game Commission. In September of 1980, she started working in the personnel department at the Larned State Hospital (LSH). In December of 1981, she was promoted to the receptionist position, where she processed job applications and set up job requisitions. In August of 2003, she was promoted to the benefits specialist position, providing assistance to more than 850 employees at LSH.  In February of 2014, Haynes brought her many years of experience to LJCF when she transferred to her current administrative specialist position in human resources.
“It is wonderful being a part of the LJCF family,” said Mary Ann.  “I am glad to be here and truly honored by the award of Non-Uniformed Employee of the Quarter.”

Haynes lives in Larned with her husband, Brian. Together, they have seven children and nine grandchildren in their combined family.  They are expecting two add two more grandchildren later this year. Staunch supporters of Wichita State University (WSU) fans, the Haynes and her husband attend as many (WSU) sporting events as possible.

John Stiers, juvenile corrections officer I, was selected as the Uniformed Employee of the Quarter. Stiers was selected for being a dependable employee who is always willing to go out of his way to help others without complaint or expecting anything in return. Considered by staff to be easygoing and fun, staff appreciate working with Stiers who often takes the initiative to get things done - usually before even being asked. Staff say his dependability and willingness to go the extra mile makes everyone’s day go more smoothly.

Born in Missouri, Stiers' family moved to Larned when he was five years old. After graduating from Larned High School, Stiers began his state employment by working at the Larned State Hospital (LSH) in 1997.  He worked several other jobs in the Larned area before rejoining LSH in July of 2006 as a mental health developmental disability technician. In July of 2014, Stiers began his career at LJCF as a corrections officer. 

"This job, like any job, has its ups and downs," Stiers said. "But I really like it when I can talk to the kids and they seem to get it.”

In his leisure time, Stiers enjoys fishing, hunting, bowling and traveling. He also enjoys spending time with his family, especially his youngest son, who just turned five.

Rebecca Shottenkirk-Lawson, Corizon administrative assistant, was selected as the Contract Employee of the Quarter. Shottenkirk-Lawson is being recognized for being a hard worker who comes to work as scheduled and who rarely takes time off.  Since she serves as a dental assistant, Shottenkirk-Lawson always ensures that the needs of the dental clinic are met so that the dentist does not have to reschedule. She is considered a great asset to both the medical records and behavioral health divisions. She is also known for being the the first to offer positive encouragement to her co-workers and taking the time to listen whenever they are in need. Shottenkirk-Lawson's organizational skills are credited with helping the office run more smoothly and her tracking of training requirements has helped staff know which classes have been taken and which are still needed. 

A Larned native, Shottenkirk-Lawson attended Larned High School before moving to Colorado for 26 years to raise her children. She returned to the Larned area last year to be closer to her parents. While her previous career had been in real estate and property management, Shottenkirk-Lawson is happy she made the switch to join the Kansas Department of Corrections' medical provider, Corizon Health, Inc.

“When I moved back, I learned that remaining in my career was going to be challenging, " she said. "So I applied for positions in the community that I could utilize my knowledge and skills. When I was offered the position with Corizon Health, I was excited to be joining a company that I could grow with and expand my career opportunities. As for now, being utilized in behavioral health, medical and dental clinic, I feel it is an honor to be a part of several teams. I absolutely love working for Corizon Health and I hope that the future brings me more joy and challenges here at LJCF.”

When not at work, Shottenkirk-Lawson enjoys outdoor activities, concerts, movies and spending time with her family. Her friends and family say she enjoys life to the fullest and that she is always up for a new adventure.

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