Secretary's Message

The first week in May has been designated by Governor Jeb Bush as Correctional Employee Week.

I look forward to attending some and hearing about many of the employee events that happen each year at this time. These events are important because with them you acknowledge your debt and loyalty to one another. I know that some supervisors give out free donuts and for others there will be barbecues and luncheons to acknowledge the dedication and performance of our employees across the state.

As I thought about what more to write about our employees, Deputy Secretary Denman's resignation letter came to mind. Starting in 1973 at the Florida Correctional Institution as a Vocational Instructor Denman rose through the ranks to his current position. He held positions of teacher, supervisor, bureau chief, warden, regional director and finally Deputy Secretary for the department. In his letter he wrote:

"I have been honored and humbled to work with some of the most sincere and dedicated staff in any profession. The department has afforded me the privilege and opportunity that I never envisioned when I began my career. The experiences have been rich and rewarding. I will treasure these and take great pleasure in reliving the memories. " C. George Denman.

There are now more than 24,000 state correctional employees. You are doing a hard job and you are doing it well. I salute you all.

April is traditionally volunteer appreciation month and this month we have published "Helping Hands" a brochure outlining the tremendous community service performed by the Department of Corrections each year. "Helping Hands" outlines all the community service that correctional employees perform from mentoring and coaching to disaster relief and financial support for local community organizations. As I reviewed the text I was humbled at the efforts of all of you, who work so hard everyday and yet go beyond your formal duties to contribute to much to our beautiful state.

Secretary Crosby

Find out more about the Helping Hands brochure in the Kudos section of the Correctional Compass and the online copy of the Helping Hands Brochure.