Editorial Advisory Board

The Correctional News Editorial Advisory Board is comprised of sitting directors, sheriffs, justice advocates, and representatives from non-profit or government advocacy organizations, providing expert insights on industry trends, projects, and policies.

EAB.Beard

Jeff Beard 
Former Secretary of Corrections for California and Pennsylvania

Read Bio
EAB.Collier

Bryan Collier
Executive Director, Texas Department of Criminal Justice 

Read Bio
EAB.Deml

Nicholas Deml 
Commissioner, Vermont Department of Corrections 

Read Bio
EAB.Dunn

Jeff Dunn 
Owner, The Dunn Group, LLC, Former Commissioner, Alabama Department of Corrections

Read Bio
EAB.Hanks

Helen Hanks 
Commissioner, New Hampshire Department of Corrections

Read Bio
EAB.Jackson

Edwardo Jackson 
Captain, Travis County Sheriff’s Office, Travis County, TX; Former President, Texas Jail Association

Read Bio
EAB.Jeffreys

Rob Jeffreys
Director, Nebraska Department of Corrections; President Correctional Leaders Association

Read Bio
EAB.Laughlin

Shawn Laughlin 
Commander, Broomfield Detention Center; President American Jail Association Board of Directors

Read Bio
EAB.Lovins

Brian Lovins, Ph.D. 
Principal, Justice System Partners 

 

Read Bio
EAB.Martinez

Kelly A. Martinez 
Sheriff, San Diego County


Read Bio
EAB.Myrick

Larome Myrick, Ph.D. 
Executive Director, Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth, & Families

Read Bio
EAB.Oliver

Tyrone Oliver 
Commissioner, Georgia Department of Corrections

Read Bio
EAB.Salisbury

Wayne Salisbury 
Director, Rhode Island Department of Corrections 

Read Bio
EAB.Salzillo

Cory Salzillo 
Managing Partner, WPSS Group 

Read Bio
EAB.Tapia

Nneka Jones Tapia, Psy.D.
 Managing Director for Justice Initiatives, Chicago Beyond

Read Bio
EAB.Tewalt

Josh Tewalt 
Director, Idaho Department of Corrections

Read Bio
EAB.Upton

Felice Upton
Assistant Secretary of Juvenile Rehabilitation, Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families

Read Bio
EAB.Ward

Tim Ward 
Former Commissioner, Georgia Department of Corrections; Member, Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles

Read Bio
EAB.Beard

Jeff Beard | Former Secretary of Corrections for California and Pennsylvania

Dr. Jeffrey A. Beard has dedicated over 40 years to corrections, serving in leadership roles across Pennsylvania and California. He was appointed Secretary of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) in 2012 by Governor Edmund G. Brown, overseeing a system with 127,000 inmates, 43,000 parolees, 54,000 employees, and a $10 billion budget. He retired in 2015 after three years in the role. 

Dr. Beard began his career as a corrections counselor at SCI-Rockview in 1972 and advanced to superintendent at SCI-Cresson and later SCI-Camp Hill, where he managed operations following major riots. He rose to become Deputy Commissioner and Executive Deputy Secretary before being appointed Pennsylvania Secretary of Corrections in 2001 by Governor Tom Ridge, a role he continued under Governor Ed Rendell until his retirement in 2010. In Pennsylvania, he managed a system housing over 51,000 inmates, employing 16,000 staff, with a $1.8 billion budget. 

Post-retirement, Dr. Beard has served as an expert witness, consultant, and advisor to various states, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and private companies. A licensed psychologist, he holds a B.S., M.Ed., and Ph.D. in counseling from Pennsylvania State University, with his license currently in inactive status. 

EAB.Collier

Bryan Collier | Executive Director, Texas Department of Criminal Justice

Bryan Collier, with over 39 years of experience in adult corrections, has served as the Executive Director of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) since 2016. He oversees one of the nation’s largest criminal justice systems, managing the confinement and care of over 130,000 felony inmates, the supervision of 230,000 individuals on probation or parole, and a statewide workforce of approximately 30,000 employees. 

Beginning his career with TDCJ in 1985 as a Clerk, Bryan has held various roles, including Correctional Officer, Parole Officer, Parole Division Director, and Deputy Executive Director. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Corrections from Sam Houston State University. 

Bryan is an active leader in the corrections field, serving as the Vice President of the American Correctional Association (ACA) and Chair of the Correctional Leaders Association (CLA) Southern Region and Recruitment and Retention Committee. He has been recognized as one of ACA’s “Best in the Business” and has received prestigious awards, including the Dr. George J. Beto Hall of Honor and the 2022 CLA Michael Francke Award. Bryan also serves on the Board of the 4th Purpose Foundation and has contributed to national correctional standards and policies through his work with the ACA and the Texas Corrections Association. 

EAB.Deml

Nicholas Deml | Commissioner, Vermont Department of Corrections

Nicholas J. Deml serves as the Commissioner of the Vermont Department of Corrections, where he oversees the state’s correctional facilities, community supervision, and the rehabilitation of detained and sentenced individuals. Appointed by Governor Phil Scott in November 2021, Commissioner Deml is committed to reforming and innovating Vermont’s correctional system. 

In addition to his leadership in Vermont, Commissioner Deml holds several national roles. He is Treasurer of the Correctional Leaders Association (CLA), serves on its Executive Committee, and chairs the CLA’s Restrictive Housing Committee. He is also a member of the Advisory Board of the Council of State Governments – Justice Center and a board member of Wilson Global Initiative, an international nonprofit advancing literacy. 

Commissioner Deml’s career includes distinguished service as a clandestine service intelligence officer with the Central Intelligence Agency. He has also held key roles in public service, including serving as an attorney and aide to U.S. Senator Dick Durbin on the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary, and as a national security staffer in the Office of the Assistant Majority Leader of the U.S. Senate. 

A graduate of Marquette University Law School (J.D.) and Southern Illinois University (B.A.), Commissioner Deml resides in Chittenden County, Vermont, with his wife and two daughters. 

EAB.Dunn

Jeff Dunn | Owner, The Dunn Group, LLC, Former Commissioner, Alabama Department of Corrections

Jeff Dunn, Colonel, USAF (Ret.), is the owner of The Dunn Group LLC, a consultancy specializing in corrections strategy, business development, and executive decision-making. Previously, he served as Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Corrections, overseeing over 18,000 offenders, 26 facilities, 3,600 staff members, and a $500 million budget. During his tenure, he implemented a transformative Strategic Plan, addressing staffing, infrastructure, and programming. Notable achievements include securing the largest correctional officer pay increase in Alabama’s history, reforming healthcare systems, and securing $1.3 billion for the Alabama Prison Program to modernize facilities. 

Nationally, Dunn served on the Executive Committee of the Correctional Leaders Association and received the Tom Clemens Award for Innovation in Corrections. He also contributed to Alabama’s criminal justice policy through various commissions and study groups. Internationally, he consults with military and government organizations on strategic planning and operational improvement. 

A retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, Dunn’s 28-year military career included roles in transportation, logistics, and strategic studies. He holds multiple degrees, including a B.A. in English from Birmingham-Southern College and advanced degrees in nonprofit management, logistics, and strategic studies. 

Jeff lives in Birmingham, Alabama, with his wife of 37 years, Susan. They have three adult children and two grandchildren. 

EAB.Hanks

Helen Hanks | Commissioner, New Hampshire Department of Corrections

Commissioner Hanks has served the New Hampshire Department of Corrections since 2003 and was confirmed as Commissioner in 2017. Under her leadership, the department has implemented innovative therapeutic communities, such as Wellness and Residential Treatment Units, focusing on mental health and substance use disorder treatment. She has successfully aligned healthcare payment models during incarceration with Medicaid and Medicare, securing legislative changes to improve care continuity. 

A major achievement includes overseeing the design and construction of a new women’s correctional facility, ensuring equitable services for women. Her efforts have contributed to a significant reduction in women’s recidivism rates, dropping from 41.9% in 2018 to 30.07% in 2020. Commissioner Hanks has also led advancements in healthcare, addressing infectious diseases like Hepatitis C and HIV and ensuring corrections align with community healthcare practices. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, she implemented proactive safety protocols, protecting staff and residents. Committed to workforce recruitment and retention, she advocates for improved infrastructure that supports staff wellness and inmate rehabilitation. Commissioner Hanks champions community reintegration and raises awareness of corrections’ role, fostering partnerships for success. 

She holds a B.S. in Psychology with honors from Plymouth State College and a Master’s in Health Care Policy and Management from Brandeis University. 

EAB.Jackson

Edwardo Jackson | Captain, Travis County Sheriff’s Office, Travis County, TX; Former President, Texas Jail Association

Edwardo Jackson, a native of Austin, Texas, began his career with the Travis County Sheriff’s Office in 2000 as a Security Coordinator. Promoted to Corrections Officer in 2004, Jackson has served in various assignments and leadership roles, including Travis County Jail, Central Booking, Courthouse Security, Prisoner Transportation, and Inmate Services. His expertise extends to roles such as Director of the Field Training Officer Program and Co-chair of the Awards Committee. 

An active member of the Texas Jail Association (TJA) since 2015, Jackson has contributed significantly to advancing professional development in corrections, raising funds for scholarships, and serving as TJA President for the 2023–2024 term. Jackson holds certifications as a Certified Jail Manager, Master Jailer, Peace Officer, and TCOLE Certified Instructor. He is a graduate of prestigious leadership programs, including the National Jail Leadership Command Academy (Class #43) and Jail Administration Management and Operations. 

Recognized for his outstanding service, Jackson has received numerous awards, including the Texas Jail Association Distinguished Service Award (2019 and 2022) and the TCSLEA Supervisor of the Year. In April 2022, Sheriff Sally Hernandez appointed him Captain in the Corrections Bureau, where he oversees TCJS Compliance and Standards, including the Kitchen, Laundry, Warehouse, Commissary, and Life Safety. 

EAB.Jeffreys

Rob Jeffreys | Director, Nebraska Department of Corrections; President Correctional Leaders Association

Rob Jeffreys is the Director of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS), appointed by Governor Jim Pillen in April 2023. With over 28 years of experience in corrections, Jeffreys leads an agency overseeing approximately 5,500 incarcerated individuals, a workforce of 2,300 team members, and an annual budget exceeding $313 million. He serves as a key member of the Governor’s cabinet, focusing on modernizing facilities and enhancing pathways for community reentry. 

Previously, Jeffreys served as Director of the Illinois Department of Corrections (2019–2023), where he spearheaded significant reforms, including the creation of a reentry division, a 40% reduction in restrictive housing populations, and achieving Illinois’ lowest prison population since 1991. His career also includes 24 years with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, where he held roles such as Chief of Staff, Regional Director, and Warden. 

Nationally recognized as a criminal justice expert, Jeffreys has worked with the U.S. Department of Justice, the Crime and Justice Institute, and The Moss Group as a consultant and trainer. He is the President of the Correctional Leaders Association and chairs its Racial Disparity Committee. Jeffreys holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in criminal justice with a concentration in Correctional Administration from Marshall University. 

EAB.Laughlin

Shawn Laughlin | Commander, Broomfield Detention Center; President American Jail Association Board of Directors

Shawn is the Commander of the Broomfield Detention Center, a 224-bed facility serving the City and County of Broomfield. With 29 years of experience in corrections, he has worked across all areas of the field and is a recognized expert in correctional operations, providing testimony in state and federal courts. Shawn serves as President of the American Jail Association (AJA) Board of Directors and has presented at both AJA and the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) conferences. 

An instructor for the County Sheriffs of Colorado for 13 years, Shawn develops curriculum and trains professionals in all aspects of jail operations. He is also a past Secretary of the Colorado Jail Association and has been a Certified Jail Manager since 2005. Shawn holds an M.A. in Criminal Justice Administration from the University of Colorado and an Executive Certificate in PhD studies from Liberty University. A graduate of the National Jail Leadership Command Academy, Shawn’s innovative programs and partnerships have been recognized by the State of Colorado and the Department of Justice as models for other facilities. 

Dedicated to advancing corrections, Shawn continues to lead initiatives that promote excellence and operational efficiency in detention and jail management. 

EAB.Lovins

Brian Lovins, Ph.D | Principal, Justice System Partners

Dr. Brian Lovins is a Principal at Justice System Partners (JSP) and a leading voice in community corrections. He holds a Ph.D. in Criminology from the University of Cincinnati and is the Immediate Past President of the American Probation and Parole Association (APPA). Previously, Dr. Lovins served as Assistant Director of Harris County Community Supervision and Corrections Department (CSCD), where he led agency-wide change initiatives to improve successful completion rates. 

Dr. Lovins is renowned for introducing the referee/coach concept to community corrections, helping probation officers shift their professional identity to focus on coaching rather than refereeing. His landmark article, “Probation Officer as a Coach: Building a New Professional Identity,” was published in Federal Probation in 2018. Since then, he has delivered hundreds of presentations and consultations, assisting agencies in implementing evidence-based practices and a coaching framework. 

Dr. Lovins’ contributions have earned him the 2020 Edward J. Latessa Practitioner Research Award, the Dr. Simon Dinitz Public Service Award, and the David Dillingham Award. A Distinguished Alumnus of the University of Cincinnati, he has published extensively on risk assessment, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and effective practices for addressing sexual offenders. Dr. Lovins is committed to advancing evidence-based approaches in community corrections nationwide. 

EAB.Martinez

Kelly A. Martinez | Sheriff, San Diego County

Sheriff Martinez has dedicated nearly four decades to serving San Diego County. Beginning her career in 1985 as a Deputy Sheriff, she worked in the jails before patrolling Fallbrook. Her extensive career includes 22 years as a deputy, specializing in gang and narcotics investigations, and later advancing to key leadership roles. As a sergeant, she supervised the Criminal Intelligence Unit and Internal Affairs. Promoted to lieutenant, she served several cities, including Encinitas and Del Mar, and oversaw the Sheriff’s involvement in the DEA Narcotic Task Force. As Captain, she led operations in Alpine and eastern San Diego County, eventually advancing to Commander of Investigations. As Assistant Sheriff, she managed the Law Enforcement Services Bureau, and as Undersheriff, she oversaw daily operations of the Sheriff’s Office. Elected in 2022, Sheriff Martinez now leads law enforcement services across 4,200 square miles, nine contract cities, seven jails, and multiple courthouses, managing a $1.2 billion budget and over 4,700 employees. 

A San Diego native, Sheriff Martinez holds a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice Administration, advanced POST certifications, and is a graduate of the FBI National Executive Institute. She is an active member of numerous professional organizations and is deeply committed to public safety. She is married with one son. 

EAB.Myrick

Larome Myrick, Ph.D | Executive Director, Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth, & Families

Dr. Larome Myrick is a transformational leader with over 20 years of experience in criminal justice, public health, and human services. He currently serves as the Executive Director of Juvenile Justice for the State of Rhode Island, where he oversees the Rhode Island Training School and the Juvenile Probation Division. Dr. Myrick has led groundbreaking reforms, achieving a 60% reduction in admissions to the Training School and advancing community-based alternatives. A champion of equity and inclusion, he has implemented race equity plans to ensure fair and just service delivery. 

At the national level, Dr. Myrick serves as the Northeast Regional Director and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Chair for the Council of Juvenile Justice Administrators, collaborating with peers to drive juvenile justice reform. He is also an active member of organizations like the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice and serves on the Rhode Island for Community and Justice Board. 

Dr. Myrick holds a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from Capella University, with research focused on desistance among formerly incarcerated women. He also has a Master’s in Organizational Leadership and a Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration and Social Sciences. A sought-after speaker, he has lectured at institutions including Harvard University and Bowling Green State University. 

EAB.Oliver

Tyrone Oliver | Commissioner, Georgia Department of Corrections

Tyrone Oliver was appointed Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Corrections in 2022 by Governor Brian Kemp. Previously, he served as Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice, bringing over two decades of law enforcement and leadership experience to his role. 

Commissioner Oliver began his career in 1999 as a Detention Officer with the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, later advancing to Deputy Sheriff, Sergeant, and Lieutenant. During his tenure, he served in diverse roles, including Uniform Patrol, Community Outreach, Drug Enforcement, Special Investigations, and Public Information Officer. In 2013, he became one of the first officers hired for the newly formed Brookhaven Police Department, where he served as Assistant Commander of Internal Affairs and Criminal Investigations. In 2016, Oliver was appointed Chief of Police for the City of Social Circle and later designated Deputy City Manager in 2018. 

Nationally recognized, Oliver was elected Vice President of the American Correctional Association in 2022 and serves on the Board of Directors for the Council of Juvenile Justice Administrators. He also sits on multiple state boards and executive committees, including the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council. 

A graduate of Columbus State University’s Law Enforcement Professional Management Program, Oliver has completed prestigious leadership programs, including the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Program and the Georgia International Law Enforcement Exchange to Israel. 

EAB.Salisbury

Wayne Salisbury | Director, Rhode Island Department of Corrections

Wayne began his career in 1987 as a Law Enforcement Specialist in the United States Air Force, where he worked in patrol and corrections. After six years of active duty, he transitioned to become a Correctional Officer and advanced through the ranks to Warden at a municipal ACA-accredited facility in Rhode Island. With over 35 years of experience in jails and prisons, Wayne has served as a practitioner, auditor, and administrator. 

In March 2016, Wayne joined the Rhode Island Department of Corrections, where he has held multiple leadership roles. He served as Deputy Warden and Warden of the department’s Intake Service Center, as well as Deputy Warden overseeing the Training Academy for over three years. Most recently, he held the position of Assistant Director of Administration for two years. 

Wayne holds bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice and cybersecurity, along with a master’s degree in public administration. He is also a Certified Corrections Executive (CCE), demonstrating his commitment to professional excellence in the field. With a career dedicated to advancing corrections operations and training, Wayne brings extensive expertise and leadership to every role he undertakes. 

EAB.Salzillo

Cory Salzillo | Managing Partner, WPSS Group

Cory Salzillo is a Managing Partner of WPSS Group, where he provides public policy analysis, legislative advocacy, and strategic business consulting for clients navigating California’s Governor’s Office, State Legislature, and various administrative agencies. With over 26 years of experience in and around the California State Legislature, Cory is a seasoned expert in public policy and legislative affairs. 

Prior to joining WPSS Group more than a decade ago, Cory served as the Director of Legislation for the California District Attorneys Association, representing nearly 3,000 prosecutors statewide. He also worked as a Consultant to the Senate Committee on Public Safety, where he analyzed legislation on law enforcement, corrections, firearms, and other criminal justice topics, advising the Senate on key policy decisions. Additionally, Cory served as a Consultant to the Assembly Committee on Transportation and worked in the offices of Senators Dick Ackerman and Dick Rainey. 

Cory earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of California, Davis, in 1998. Outside of his professional pursuits, he enjoys spending time with his wife and son, traveling, wine tasting, and cooking. Cory’s deep legislative expertise and strategic insight make him a trusted advisor in California’s political and policy landscape. 

EAB.Tapia

Nneka Jones Tapia, Psy.D | Managing Director for Justice Initiative, Chicago Beyond

Dr. Nneka Jones Tapia is the Managing Director for Justice Initiatives at Chicago Beyond, a national philanthropic organization addressing systemic inequity through catalytic funding and community-driven solutions. Since its inception, Chicago Beyond has invested over $65 million in initiatives spanning justice, health, and systemic reform, amplifying grassroots leaders and influencing national policy. 

A clinical psychologist and former Warden of Cook County Jail, Dr. Jones Tapia is a leading advocate for mental wellness, criminal justice reform, and trauma-informed care for those impacted by America’s carceral system. As one of the first clinical psychologists to lead a correctional facility, she implemented bold strategies to promote wellness and reduce recidivism, including the Cook County Mental Health Transition Center, which has supported thousands of successful reentries and is now a national model. 

At Chicago Beyond, she collaborates with individuals impacted by incarceration to reduce incarceration and foster holistic safety in correctional systems. She led the publication of Do I Have the Right to Feel Safe?, a vision for engaging incarcerated individuals, correctional staff, and survivors of crime to improve safety and wellness. Dr. Jones Tapia continues to partner with correctional systems nationwide to implement holistic safety strategies that prioritize well-being for all involved.

EAB.Tewalt

Josh Tewalt | Director, Idaho Department of Corrections

Josh serves as the Director of the Idaho Department of Correction (IDOC), overseeing operations across nine prisons, five community reentry centers, and seven probation and parole districts. With an annual budget of $313 million and nearly 2,000 employees, IDOC is responsible for the incarceration and supervision of 25,000 individuals convicted of felonies. 

A lifelong advocate for public safety, Josh believes true safety comes when individuals transform their lives to become law-abiding citizens. Under his leadership, IDOC has implemented evidence-based programs aimed at equipping individuals in its care with the skills needed to succeed in their communities. Josh is equally dedicated to empowering IDOC’s frontline professionals, enhancing their tools, training, and compensation to improve effectiveness and safety. 

On the national stage, Josh has been a driving force in re-envisioning corrections. He is an active member of the Correctional Leaders Association (CLA), where he chairs the Program and Training Committee and previously led the Reentry and Community Corrections Committee. In 2022, he was elected CLA’s treasurer. 

An Idaho native, Josh previously held leadership roles in public service, including staff positions for two governors and a U.S. congressman. He and his wife, Chanel, run a livestock operation in Meridian, Idaho, where they live with their two children. 

EAB.Upton

Felice Upton | Assistant Secretary of Juvenile Rehabilitation, Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families

Felice Upton is a distinguished government leader and public policy expert serving as Assistant Secretary at the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) in Olympia. With over two decades of experience in juvenile justice and community engagement, she leads a team of more than 1,000 Juvenile Justice Professionals, overseeing strategic initiatives to enhance public safety and youth outcomes. 

Upton’s career reflects a deep commitment to innovation and equity. As a former Superintendent at DCYF and Associate Superintendent of Programs at the Department of Corrections, she developed inclusive, evidence-based programs that strengthened community partnerships and improved service delivery. Her leadership has had a lasting impact on juvenile justice practices in Washington State. 

A recognized thought leader, Upton is Vice-Chair of the Council for Juvenile Justice Administrators and serves on the boards of Seattle University’s School of Criminal Justice and the Governor’s Partnership for Juvenile Justice Council. She also contributes to the Governor’s Reentry Council, focusing on reintegration and systemic reform. 

An advocate for education and research, Upton has been published in the Sage Journal and regularly presents at forums like the Lens of Equity Summit. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies and Sociology from the University of Washington and remains committed to advancing equitable juvenile justice practices. 

EAB.Ward

Tim Ward | Former Commissioner, Georgia Department of Corrections; Member, Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles

Timothy C. Ward dedicated over 30 years to public service in Georgia, beginning his career in 1992 as a Correctional Officer with the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC). He progressed through the ranks, holding positions such as Counselor, Chief Counselor, Superintendent, Warden, Director of Facilities Operations, and Assistant Commissioner of Facilities. In 2016, he was promoted to Chief of Staff, and in 2018, Governor Brian Kemp appointed him as Commissioner of the GDC. 

In January 2023, Ward transitioned to the State Board of Pardons and Paroles, where he served until his retirement from state government in March 2024. Throughout his career, Ward played an integral role in advancing correctional practices and leadership in Georgia. 

Ward has been an influential voice nationally, serving as a Commissioner on the American Correctional Association’s Commission on Accreditation for Corrections. He is also an active member of professional organizations, including the Southern States Correctional Association, the Georgia Professional Association of Community Supervision, and the Correctional Leaders Association. 

Ward holds Executive and Correctional Officer certifications from the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council and completed Executive Leadership Development through the Georgia Leadership Institute. His legacy reflects a commitment to excellence and innovation in corrections and public safety.