Correctional leaders from around the country attended the North American Association of Wardens & Superintendents (NAAWS) in Columbus, Ohio (May 29 – June 1, 2013). Approximately 350 participants attended quality presentations, workshops, tours, and exhibits.
Gary Mohr, Director - Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections (DRC) welcomed correctional leaders on behalf of the State of Ohio and staff representing the DRC.
Keynote Speakers
Sheriff Matt Lutz and nationally recognized animal expert Jack Hannah presented, “The Great Animal Escape of 2011” – hosted at the Columbus Zoo. The presentation described events leading up to the escape and capture of 56 exotic animals, including 18 Bengal Tigers, and how the media frenzy was handled.
Judge James Graves, Jr., 5th Circuit Court of Appeals presented “The Role of Corrections in Law and Society” He discussed his experience on the bench, trends being established by the Courts, and leadership in corrections.
Reginald Wilkinson, Former Secretary of Corrections – Ohio DRC, presented “PREA and Administrative Segregation Issues.” He also commented on leadership qualities that are of value to correctional staff.
General Sessions
Christopher Epps, President of the American Correctional Association (ACA), discussed his vision and goals for ACA. As current Commissioner of the Mississippi Department of Corrections, he conveyed the importance of receiving accreditation and maintaining high standards in correctional facilities.
Don Dease, Correctional Advisor, discussed his deployment in Afghanistan during the rebuilding of that nation’s prison system.
Key Workshops and Tour
• Supervision of the Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Offender
• Security Threat Groups – From Prison to the Streets
• Ethics in Government
• Tour – Scioto Juvenile Correctional Facility
Exhibits
Retired Federal Warden Pat Koehane coordinated 50 vendors which displayed the latest in technology and operational products ranging from medical, ministry, training, and reentry software programs. Much interest was directed to the following vendors:
• Prison Fellowship – Pedro Moreno, who serves as Director for the Wardens Prison Fellowship Program, had his National Directors for Training available to discuss the value of faith-based programs in correctional settings.
• Siemens – Nancy Gunther, Becky Werra, and regional staff provided information on medical technology and energy efficiency programs in criminal justice environments.
• Ramsell Corporation – David Manson provided reentry program applications for use in connecting resources for offenders.
Next year’s conference is tentatively planned for Memphis, Tennessee. Additional information will soon be posted on the NAAWS website: www.naaws.com.
