FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS

FDC Probation Officer Receives Statewide Award
FDC officer in Gainesville recognized for her commitment
to improving the lives of those in her community

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) is proud to recognize Correctional Probation Senior Officer Teshiana Parker of Circuit 8, following her recent selection as the 2021 Florida Association of Community Corrections (FACC) Professional of the Year Award.

“Each year, the Florida Association of Community Corrections considers hundreds of nominees seeking the perfect candidate who exemplifies the mission of community corrections professionals,” said FDC Assistant Secretary Joe Winkler. “This year, they certainly selected a prime candidate as Officer Parker provides an immense service to the state, the agency and Alachua County. We are proud to celebrate her accomplishment in achieving this award.”

Officer Parker began volunteering with family who work in local law enforcement as a teenager. She now serves the state and her county as an FDC court officer, while maintaining a caseload focused on providing structure and support for offenders on probation for drug-related crimes. Along with a designated team, she also visits incarcerated individuals prior to their release to prepare them to become successful returning citizens.

“Officer Parker is a well-rounded and dedicated community corrections professional,” said Regional Director Tammi Schimming. “Whether it is through her years of involvement as a volunteer in local rehabilitative programming or her steadfast commitment to protecting the community through agency-led planned compliance initiatives, Officer Parker is committed to excelling at any task and is always willing to go above and beyond the call of duty.”

The FACC establishes criteria for nominees such as community involvement, career history, professional organization affiliations, commendations and more. This year’s selection was prompted by community-wide support from members of the local judicial system and county probation staff as well as FDC administration.

For more information about the FACC, visit: www.faccnet.org/.