Executive Director’s Remarks
Thank You for All That You Do!
We also care deeply about our members as individuals. That is why we are focused on the challenges that you face in your jail on a daily basis and the impact it can have on you.
“Celebrating Corrections Officers‚ is the focus of this issue of American Jails magazine. The extent to which corrections officers are celebrated is directly proportional to the level of understanding about the important role that community corrections play in public safety. Those who are aware understand that it is a challenging, but rewarding, occupation that is often underappreciated.
The headquarters staff at the American Jail Association consider it a privilege to serve our members who work in our nation’s jails. We are proud of what you do and thankful to have the opportunity to support your efforts.
This issue of the magazine is one that we look forward to every year. We love the stories and the photos that are often included. Most of all we love sharing your celebratory moments with the entire corrections community.
We also care deeply about our members as individuals. That is why we are focused on the challenges that you face in your jail on a daily basis and the impact it can have on you.
For the past two years, the AJA Fall Summit has primarily focused on recruitment and retention and the health and well-being of jail professionals. These two topics are inextricably intertwined when discussing jails. Self-care and caring for our colleagues are challenging when a jail is short-staffed, and that can impact mental health.
During the AJA Conference and Jail Expo, AJA President Louis Quinones, CCE, CJM, announced that mental health in corrections would be the focus of his President’s Initiative. Likewise, the AJA Fall Summit for Jail Professionals will focus on mental health. The Summit will be held in Charleston, South Carolina, on October 3fi5.
AJA’s Summits are designed to take a deep dive into a focused topic and to provide attendees with practical solutions that they can implement in their jails. I strongly encourage you to attend and participate in the conversation about the challenges and the solutions some jails have successfully implemented. Space is limited so register early at www.aja.org. I hope to see you there!
Thank you for all that you do. Stay safe and be proud.
CHRIS D. DANIELS, MPA, CAE Executive Director American Jail Association
