The Outstanding Corrections Professional Award honors a county or state corrections professional whose innovation, leadership, service, and commitment have made a meaningful and measurable impact within their department or the broader corrections system. Nominees may be executive leaders — such as directors, executive directors, or sheriffs — or frontline staff, administrators, program personnel and other corrections or detention employees. 

The award recognizes professionals whose contributions improve safety, security, operational efficiency, resilience, health, wellness, or performance in public safety environments; strengthen outcomes for the people in their care; or help build a culture of safety and success for all.

Eligibility 

Nominees must be actively employed by a county or state corrections, detention, or justice agency and demonstrate a sustained record of excellence in leadership, operations, administration, planning, program delivery, or another area that advances their department’s mission. 

Selection Process 

Nominees will be evaluated according to the following criteria: 

• Leadership and Operational Excellence: Proven ability to lead teams, manage complex environments and drive performance within correctional settings 
• Commitment to Safety and Outcomes: Contributions that enhance facility safety, staff effectiveness and outcomes for incarcerated populations 
• Innovation in Practice: Implementation of new programs, policies or operational strategies that improve efficiency or effectiveness 
• Professional Integrity and Service: Demonstrated commitment to ethical standards, accountability and public service 
• Influence and Mentorship: Positive impact on colleagues, staff development and organizational culture 

How to Nominate 

The nominations period closed Sept. 30.

Announcing the Winners 

Winners will be announced at the Corrections Summit in 2026 and recognized in a future issue of Correctional News.