KDOC 2013 Contract Employee of the Year:

Tonya Taylor, Larned Correctional Mental Health Facility

At the reception it was announced that, as the mental health professional for the segregation unit, Taylor has helped to shape a treatment team environment at LCMHF that has been highly effective. Her group and individual therapy sessions help offenders learn coping skills and change their negative thinking.

KDOC 2013 Volunteer of the Year:

Phyllis Smith, Southern Parole Region

Smith and her late husband were private business owners in Wichita for many years. At the reception it was announced that Smith has volunteered for three years with the Offender Workforce Development Specialist Services, and has developed many programs and systems to improve it. Her own business background allows her to impart unique insight to the parolees who are returning to work. 

KDOC 2013 Community Corrections Employee of the Year:

Claudia Fisher, Douglas County Community Corrections

At the reception it was announced that Fisher guides offenders and other staff with sound advice and encouragement as Intensive Supervision Officer. She provides many talents to her agency, not the least of which being her skills with Spanish. 

KDOC Uniformed Employee of the Year:

Tom Canfield, Hutchinson Correctional Facility

At the reception it was announced that, Canfield is the K-9 officer at Hutchinson and serves on the board of directors of the Kansas Police Dog Association. He is instrumental in searches for contraband, turning up everything from drugs to money to cell phones. 

KDOC Non-uniformed Employee of the Year:

Mary Kooser, KDOC Central Office, Topeka

At the reception it was announced that Kooser initiated a new time and leave recording program this past year and is the “go-to person” for payroll issues. It was said that Kooser is involved in all phases of employment, helping KDOC employees with every step from hiring to retirement.