New Jersey Department of Corrections

New Jersey Department of Corrections staff attended the 31st Annual Blue Mass in Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart earlier this month. The mass welcomed law enforcement employees of all faiths representing federal, state, county, and municipal agencies. This year’s Blue Mass paid tribute to nine local police officers who died in the line of duty within the past few years, including many who succumbed to 9/11-related illnesses. The NJDOC’s Pipe Band and Honor Guard helped to pay homage to those who dedicated their lives to their communities. For more photos from the event, check out our official Flickr page: https://lnkd.in/gdGbKreU

The NJDOC reopened the Mates Inn Coffee House on Central Office grounds following recent renovations. The café is staffed by students of the Department’s barista-training program, which is a valuable opportunity for participants to learn marketable skills in the industry. In addition to practicing barista skills, participants learn customer services, teamwork, and transferable skills like résumé writing and job interviewing. Participants also are connected to employers prior to release to assist them in finding viable employment.

This week at the Correctional Staff Training Academy, recruits delve into the skills and techniques of unarmed defensive tactics. CSTA instructors provide expert training and knowledge on these controlled movements derived from several disciplines, which help officers build the confidence and skills to protect themselves and others in various situations.

Check out where our recruitment team will be this upcoming week. For more information about beginning a career as a New Jersey State correctional police officer, visit JoinNJDOC.gov.

The Department is looking for talented and motivated individuals to join our team. If you're ready to contribute to impactful projects and thrive in a dynamic environment, apply today by visiting https://lnkd.in/edV9hBfU.

The New Jersey Department of Corrections Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion hosted a Men’s Health Summit for departmental staff earlier this week. The event highlighted the importance of prioritizing mental and physical health. It provided workshops, educational seminars, and health screenings for attendees. Commissioner Victoria L. Kuhn, Esq., and Executive Director Dr. Herbert Kaldany, Healthcare Compliance Unit, provided remarks, emphasizing their support of staff. Guest speakers Ellis Allen and Officer Michael Drybread shared stories of their health journeys, encouraging attendees to maintain practices and lifestyles that promote their wellbeing.

Northern State Prison Sergeant Ernesto Hernandez recently was recognized with a commendation for his exemplary response to an emergency situation. Last month, Sgt. Hernandez responded to a fellow officer’s call for assistance, where he observed his colleague experiencing a medical emergency. Sgt. Hernandez acted quickly to administer aid, potentially saving the officer’s life. Sgt. Hernandez’s swift and decisive actions exemplify his expert training as well as his professionalism and dedication to his colleagues, this department, and the State of New Jersey.

Garden State Correctional Facility hosted a Veterans Day Ceremony earlier this month to honor those who served in the United States Armed Forces. The event featured remarks from Assistant Superintendent Collins, Officer Caruso, and Reverend Gosnell as well as a flag-folding demonstration by Officers Vilayphanh and Joseph. GSCF also welcomed a special guest speaker, retired New Jersey Army National Guard Colonel Jeffrey Eget, who serves as lieutenant with the New Jersey State Parole Board’s Veterans Initiative & Wellness Unit.

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide and the THIRD-leading cause of cancer death globally, with a five-year survival rate in the single digits. The goal of World Pancreatic Cancer Day is to raise awareness by sharing the facts about this disease, survivor stories, and what you can do to make an impact. Organizations, such as the National Institute of Health and the CDC, offer valuable information and resources that can help to save lives.

During Week 7 at the NJDOC Correctional Staff Training Academy, recruits participated in the assessment run. Visit the Department’s Flickr page for more photos from the run and to cheer your loved ones on! https://lnkd.in/eg3etssV