After 32 years with the Tidewater Regional Group Home Commission, Deputy Director, Dave Hawkins retired on March 31, 2009. Dave will continue to work as a part- time Substance Abuse Counselor with the Chesapeake CSB. Dave wanted to mark the occasion of his retirement by simply going out for a beverage after work. But under the persuasive powers of Jeannie Martin and Cathy Williams he agreed to an informal gathering at Jeannie’s house which was held on April 4. Surrounded by colleagues, friends and family, Dave was given a great send off. Fellow retirees John Matish, Bill Harrell, Mike Connors, Arlene Eyler, Pat Flax-Jankosky, Mike Jankosky, and Ann Philips came out to welcome Dave into their ranks. And his retirement gift? A high tech sleeping bag for his cherished backpacking trips to the mountains. VJJA wishes Dave a long, healthy retirement and many memorable hikes in the hills.
Ebony Toomer, recently completed a Master's Degree in Education at Norfolk State University. A Probation Officer with the Virginia Beach Court Service Unit, Ebony previously worked for the Richmodn Court Service Unit.
Diane Shelton, has come out of retirement to work as local JDAI Coordinator for Virginia Beach JDAI.
Tim Smith, Superintendent of the Shenandoah Center, was featured in the Spring 2009 issue of ETSU Today.
Christina Hawkins, formerly of KidLink, has joined the staff of Psychiatric Solutions, Inc (PSI). PSI offers an extensive continuum of behavioral health programs to critically ill children, adolescents and adults and is the largest operator of owned or leased freestanding psychiatric inpatient facilities with approximately 10,000 beds in 31 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Hawkins will work as the company's Director of Business Development for the state of Virginia.
Patrick Slifka, National Counseling Group, has been selected as faculty for the annual National Association of Social Workers - Virginia Chapter conference in March. The title of the training is "Next Generation Workforce: Ethical and Best Practice Issues for Supervisors". Read more about the event here: www.naswva.org
The Fairfax Juvenile Court welcomed the following new employees and volunteers: Elizabeth Petillo, Intern - Supervised Visitation & Supervised Exchange Program, Alice Shirley, Volunteer Program, Jen Postillico, Intern - Special Services, Roxana Nava, Interpreter, Cristina Lozano, Interpreter, Maria Wright, Interpreter, Madeline Steinman, Intern - Intake/Diversion, and Gerald Kirwin, Court Aide - Special Services. (January 2009)
Sheila Coffin, Fairfax Juvenile Court, is a proud grandmother. Caley was born January 2, 2009. (January 2009)
Pam Holland, JS Counselor II / Outreach, Newport News Juvenile Services, was selected her employer's "Making a Difference" Employee of the Quarter for Fall 2008. Ms. Holland was also selected as the 2008 Making a Difference Employee of the Year.
Lisa Hutzel, Valley District Member, is now a Counselor Supervisor at the VADJJ's Natural Bridge Juvenile Correctional Center (NBJCC). She had most recently been employed as a Probation Officer in the 25th District Court Service Unit's Lexington office. Prior to that time she previously worked at NBJCC as a Counselor. (January 2009)
The National Counseling Group has relcated two offices (Winchester and Newport News) and opened 3 new sites in Warrenton, Fredericksburg and Culpeper. Obtain addresses and learn more at: www.nationalcounselinggroup.com
Nancy Fleming has returned to the Department of Juvenile Justice's Reception & Diagnostic Center. After a few years of commuting long distance to serve as the Assistant Superintendent at the Culpeper Juvenile Correctional Center, Nancy has been appointed as Assistant Superintendent at the Reception & Diagnostic Center. Nancy previously worked in RDC's Special Placement Unit.
Laura Maynard, Blue Ridge District, previously an Intake Officer with the Salem / Roanoke Court Service Unit, has begun employment as an Intake Officer / Probation Officer with the 27th District Court Service unit in Christiansburg. Prior to becoming a Probation Officer in 2005, Ms. Maynard had been a VJCCCA Community Service/Restitution Officer since 2000. (January 2009)
Becky Camache, Tidewater District, has retired from the Department of Juvenile Justice. A career public servant, Camache was employed as a Regional Operations Manager in the agency's tidewater region. Prior to that time she had served as Regional Administrator in the agency's western region.
Ron Johnson, JS Counselor II / Outreach, Newport News Juvenile Services, is the assistant coach of the Phoebus Phantoms varsity football team. Congratulations to him and his team for winning the the Group AAA Division Five Championship at Virginia Tech in December. He is also the head coach for the junior-varsity team, which had an undefeated season. (December 2008)
Probation Officer Rolando Welch (Alexandria CSU) received a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from Bowie State University in Maryland. His thesis, “The Relationship Between Parent Involvement and Student Academic Performance” will be presented at the 12th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Behavioral and Social Sciences in Las Vegas.
Lynn Myers, Blue Ridge District, has retired from the Department of Juvenile Justice. Mr. Myers was employed as a Regional Operations Manager in the agency's western region. (December 2008)
Lillian Brooks – , 18th Court Service Unit, is featured in the following Washington Post article:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/25/AR2008032503721.html
Olymphia Perkins,
Tidewater District, has completed a master's degree. Congratulations.
Dorothy Greer, previously with the Chesterfield Court Service Unit, is now employed by the Richmond Court Service Unit.
Jesus Santos, JS Supervisor, Newport News Juvenile Detention, and his wife Lee Marie celebrated 20 years of marriage. (December 2008)
Jim Nankervis, Capital District, has been promoted to the position of Court Service Unit Director with the Department of Juvenile Justice 's Chesterfield Court Service Unit. Prior to his promotion he served for many years as Probation Supervisor / Intake Supervisor (November 2008).
Gayle Turner, Capital District, has accepted the position of Director of Strategic Planning with the Department of Criminal Justice Services. Prior to accepting her new position Gayle was employed by the Department of Juvenile Justice as the Director of Court Services for the Chesterfield Court Service Unit.
Tom Ticconi, Facility Maintenance Supervisor, Newport News Juvenile Services, was selected for the Making a Difference Employee of the Quarter, Winter 2008.
Regina Hurt, formerly the Assistant Superintendent at the Department of Juvenile Justice's Reception & Diagnostic Center, has been promoted to the position of Program Administration Specialist II with the Division of Institutions.
Phyllis Carleton, JS Counselor II, Newport News Juvenile Detention, is the proud grandmother of a beautiful new baby granddaughter named Nevaeh Michelle Ruffin.
Congratulations to Capital District Officer Stephan Stark and his wife Rebecca who welcomed a son, Hayden, during the month of September. He joined big sister Mina at home. Stephan is employed by Intercept Youth Services.
Newport News Juvenile Services Community Programs Administrator Reginald Williams was installed as Pastor of Second Mount Olive Church on November 16, 2008. (November 2008)
James Austin, Chesterfield Court Service Unit. recently tied the knot. (October 2008)
Jessica Isaacs, Blue Ridge District Member, has accepted a position with as an Adult Probation and Pretrial Officer with LynchburgCommunity Corrections and Pretrial Services. She is a 2007 graduate of Radford University.
The Walmart Foundation has awarded $50,000 grant to Pathways Youth Build, a program that helps students earn their GED or high school diploma, develop job skills and build affordable housing for low-income families in Petersburg. The money is part of a larger grant of $5 million from the Wal-mart Foundation.
On October 7, Governor Timothy M. Kaine announced the appointment of the Honorable Judge Jerrauld C. Jones, to fill a vacancy in the Norfolk Circuit Court. Judge Jones has served the Norfolk Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court since 2005. Jones previously served as Director of the Department of Juvenile Justice. He also represented the 89th District in the Virginia House of Delegates from 1988-2002. A Tidewater VJJA Member, Jones serves on the Governor’s Advisory Committee on Juvenile Justice.
On Friday 10/24/08, I will retire after 30 years of service. It has been a pleasure working with, beside, and learning from so many of you. Though I often worked to the beat of my own drummer, I have many fond memories of your work with our kids. I wish all of you the best and you don’t have to answer this. Fondly, Cassandra Dodson
Betty Migliaccio,
Capital District, has returned to employment with the Department of Juvenile Justice. Previously employed at Beaumont Juvenile Correctional Center, she is now a Probation Officer Senior with the Richmond Court Service Unit.
Beth Stinnett was among the speakers at the 16th Annual National Juvenile Detention Alternative Initiative Inter-Site Conference. More than 500 juvenile justice professionals gathered in Indianapolis to discuss major accomplishments and review best practices and outcomes (September 2008).
Probation Officer Joseph Regotti (Alexandria CSU) and his wife Ana celebrated the birth of their first child, a son, Nicolas. (September 2008)
Long time member Diane (Floyd) Shelton has retired as a Probation Supervisor with the Virginia Beach Court Service Unit. She had worked for the CSU since 1976. Shelton began her work as a Probation Officer and later became a Group Coordinator. She developed and implemented the “Street Law” program for the CSU. In 1989, she was named the association’s Probation Officer of the Year. Shelton has been an active VJJA member for 33 years, serving in numerous leadership capacities. For several years she served as Editor of a regional newsletter the “Court Jester” and as State Conference Chair. For more than two decades she organized Tidewater “Spring Fling” (a training event that included an annual volleyball tournament). She served as Chair of the Tidewater District Spring Institute for 15 years.
J. Kevin Curling a Probation Officer Senior with the Chesapeake CSU was named the Department of Juvenile Justice's Probation Officer of the Year. (August 2008)
Shawn Deel, Juvenile Correctional Offier Senior with the Reception and Diagnostic Center, was named the Department of Juvenile Justice's Juvenile Correctional Officer of the Year. (August 2008)
Tonya Marshall, Program Support Technician with the Norfolk Court Service Unit, was named the Department of Juvenile Justice's Administrative Support Person of the Year. (August 2008)
Lisa White, Food Service Manager with the Norfolk Court Service Unit, was named the Department of Juvenile Justice's Support Person of the Year. (August 2008)
James Harper, Rehabilitation Counselor, with the Natural Bridge Juvenile Correctional Center, was named the Department of Juvenile Justice's Treatment Practitioner of the Year. (August 2008)
Renee Tillery, Licensed Practical Nurse with the Hanover Juvenile Correctional Center, was named the Department of Juvenile Justice's Support Person of the Year. (August 2008)
Bobbie Krohn, was presented with the Department of Juvenile Justice's Director's Award for Excellence. (August 2008)
Wanda Parris, Chesterfield Court Service Unit. is now Wanda Parris-Flanagan. She was married on August 7, 2008. (August 2008)
Charlotte Powell-Harper is to be congratulated on her new position as Executive Secretary Senior to the Department of Juvenile Justice’s Division of Institutions. She will support Ed Murray, John Coble, and George Wakefield. Charlotte previously worked for DJJ’s health services section. (August 2008)
The film, Recover Me, developed from a screenplay by Dahsheen Amin, a psychologist associate at Bon Air JCC, was shown at Richmond's Byrd Theatre on Saturday, August 30, 2008 at 1 p.m. Recover Me, is a drama about a single mother battling drug addiction, while trying to uplift both herself and her
teenage son from a crime-ridden, impoverished neighborhood set in Richmond. Some of the film was shot at Barrett JCC and a few Department of Juvenile Justice employees (Art Mayer, Raelanda Johnson and Shenika Whitaker to name a few) appear as extras in the drama. See movie poster or learn more at: http://www.goodnewsproductions.net/Films1.html.
The National Counseling Group Newport News Office has moved. On August 15th, 2008, NCG Newport News moved into new quarters at 733 Thimble Shoals Blvd, Suite 100, Newport News. The phone numbers and fax numbers remained the same. (August 2008)
Erin Kotowski, was promoted to Probation Supervisor after working as a Probation Officer in the Charlottesville Court Service Unit for two years. Prior to her employment with the Department of Juvenile Justice, Erin worked as a Youth Day Treatment Clinician in the East End of Richmond. She has a Master's degree in Forensic Psychology and is engaged to be married.
Jenna Easton, Valley District, has been hired by the 16th District Court Service Unit - Charlottesville, as a Probation Supervisor. Most recently Easton had been employed as a School Social Worker with Greene County Schools. She previously served as a Probation Officer with the Culpeper Court Service Unit. Prior to that time she completed internships with the 16th and 25th Court Service Units. Jenna and her husband are the proud parents of a two year old son.
Alexandria Probation Officer Carlos Mendieta (18th CSU) and his new bride Patricia were married at the Carlyle House. Alexandria Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Judge Constance Frogale presided over the ceremony (August 2008).
Tidewater District Member, Kimberly Jennings, was promoted to Parole Supervisor at the Portsmouth Court Service Unit. She previously held the position of Senior Probation Officer. Kimberly began her employment 12 years ago in Farmville and later transferred to Portsmouth. A Tidewater native, she graduated from Old Dominion University. Kimberly is active in her community volunteering with numerous other organizations. She has also actively campaigned for Barrack Obama and was delighted to shake his hand during a recent campaign stop in Chesapeake.
Southwest District Member, Karen Anders, accepted a position with New River Valley Community Services. Karen will work as a counselor for the group. She will also be pursuing licensure. Prior to accepting her new position, Karen was employed as a Probation Officer by the 27th District Court Service Unit’s Christiansburg office. (Her other claim to fame is that she and dance partner Dave Lively, 3rd CSU, came in 1st runner up in a twist contest at the 31st Fall Juvenile Justice Institute.)
Tidewater District Member, James (Jim) Gordon, was promoted to CSU Director at the Suffolk Court Service Unit. He previously held the position of Probation Supervisor. Jim began his employment in the 5th District Court Service Unit’s Franklin office in 1974 and was promoted to Probation Supervisor in 1981. Jim graduated from John Yeates High School and the University of Richmond. A Suffolk native, he continues to reside there with his wife Elizabeth and their cat, Buddy. (August 2008)
Northern District Member, Thaddeus Aubry, Regional Operations Manager for the VADJJ’s Northern Regional Office, was honored with the establishment of the Thaddeus Aubry and Leon LeBuffe Scholarship for students of African descent at the Catholic University of America. The scholarship was established in honor of Thaddeus Aubry and Leon LeBuffe for their work in establishing a minority scholarship effort that began in 1969 to benefit promising young students from the Washington, D.C.
After a more than 25 year career in juvenile justice, O. Wayne Jones, retired from his position with the 13th District Court Service Unit - Richmond. (July 2008)
Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced appointments to the following boards and commissions: Board of Juvenile Justice - Kecia N. Brothers. Ms. Brothers works for the City of Chesapeake's Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, Youth and Family Services section as a Youth Services Coordinator. (July 2008)
After 34 years in the field of juvenile justice for both local and state government, Dennis Gilbert, has retired from the Williamsburg Court Service Unit, where he was employed as a Probation Supervisor. Dennis should be a familiar face to those even outside of Williamsburg as he has served as faculty for VJJA and non-VJJA conferences and other training events throughout the state. Congratiulations and best wishes Dennis!
Congratulations also goes out to Bob Smith, Assistant Director of Fairfax County's Center County Probation Unit, who retired after more than 30 years. He started work in 1977 as a volunteer with the Fairfax Girls' Probation House. In August 1979, he started working in outreach and then joined the probation unit as a Probation Officer II in 1984. Best wishes Bob! Have fun firing up that new grill you received as a retirement gift.
Congratulations to the following employees of the Department of Juvenile Justice celebrating career milestones: 25 Years - Thaddeus Aubry, Northern Regional Office, Robin Barwick, Cedar Lodge Training Unit, Marilyn Crute, Powhatan Court Service Unit, Sharon Duer, Accomac Court Service Unit, Patricia Edge, Natural Bridge Juvenile Correctional Center, Wanda Eller, Christiansburg Court Service Unit, William Ford, Hampton Place, Nora Grantz, RDC - Behavioral Service Unit, Gloria Howard, Newport News Court Service Unit, Harriett Kelly, Hampton Court Service Unit, Cheryl McGhee, Culpeper JCC, Kathy Mowrey, Hanover JCC, Bruce Mowry, Waynesboro Court Service Unit, Jon Salotti, Reception & Diagnostic Center, Cathy Sterling, Williamsburg Court Service Unit, Sandy Surface, Abraxas House, Webb Thomas, Abraxas House, Teresa Trapani, Eastern Regional Office, Teresa Volosevich, Beamont JCC and Lewis Wright, Henrico Court Service Unit.
30 Years - Gary Conway, Staunton Court Service Unit, Patrick Delauder, Portsmouth Court Service Unit, Henry Evans, Norfolk Court Service Unit, Barbara Flythe, Suffolk Court Service Unit, Jon Gilbert, Covington Court Service Unit, Ronnie Johnson, Reception & Diagnostic Center, Gregory Kiskinis, Chesapeake Court Court Service Unit, Michael Locke, Alexandria Court Service Unit, Janice Moore, Reception & Diagnostic Center, Debbie Paulus, Reception & Diagnostic Center, Kenneth Robinson, Cedar Lodge, Joyce Stinson, Norfolk Court Service Unit, and William Sturtevant, Stafford Court Service Unit.
35 Years - Patricia Atkins, Roanoke Court Service Unit, Karen Jancaitis, Manassas Court Service Unit, David Lively, Portsmouth Court Service Unit, Avon Miles, Hopewell Court Service Unit, Gregory Raines, Newport News Court Service Unit, Imogene Smith, Reception & Diagnostic Center, David Smith, Harrisonburg Court Service Unit, and John Weigel, Court Service Unit.
40 Years - Mike Lazzuri, Western Regional Office, Ron Belay, 29th Court Service Unit - Pearisburg, David Davis, Salem Court Service Unit, and Dollie Lewis, Hampton Court Service Unit. Thanks to each of these colleagues for their dedicated service working with children in the juvenile justice system.
Way to go Katherine Farmer! Katherine has been promoted to a Program Contract Monitor with the Department of Juvenile Justice's Division of Community Programs. She was previously a Probation Officer with the Henrico Court Service Unit. A long time member of the VJJA Board of Directors, Katherine has also been employed by the Richmond Court Service Unit, the Beaumont Juvenile Correctional Center, the Oak Ridge Juvenile Correctional Center, and the Department of Correctional Education (July 2008).
Northern District Member, Thomas Minnick, president and CEO of the National Counseling Group, is featured on the cover of the June / July 2008 issue of MyBUSINESS magazine. He is also quoted in an article, “The Power of Small Business”. MyBUSINESS is a publication of the National Federation of Independent Business. View the online version of the publication and read the article in its entirety here: www.mybusinessmag.com/fullstory.php3?sid=1806
Josephine Burch an Outreach Counselor II with Newport News Juvenile Services is to be congratulated on her upcoming career milestone of 34 years of service (August 2008). Josephine is a long time VJJA member and a past award winner. She was honored before her peers in 1997 when she was presented with VJJA's Meritorious Award in the Area of Community Service.
Best Wishes Sherry Pilson! Sherry will retire from the 22nd District Court Service Unit on August 1 after 40 years of service. She worked for a short period of time in Mecklenberg County, but served most of her time as a Probation Supervisor supervising in Franklin and Pittsylvania Counties. During her career Sherry was active in many local and statewide efforts, most recently participating in a drug court effort in Franklin County. During her retirement Sherry will continue to work part-time as an in-home counselor for Family Preservation Services.
Tidewater Member, Willie A. Smith, a Senior Counselor with the Newport News Juvenile Services, was selected as the City of Newport News' Employee of the Month. He is the 4th Juvenile Services employee to receive the award. (June 2008)
The Fairfax County Juvenile Court welcomes the following new employees: Lisandra Garcia and Maria Scwab have both joined the staff as volunteers (July 2008).
The Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice welcomed a new class of Probation Officers. Recent graduated of Basic Skills for New Proation Officers include: Diana Graves, Danville, Francesca Walker, Loudoun, Tammy Archibald, Manassas, Brenton Hopkins, Manassas, Nicole Ayers, Manassas, Maximillion Press, Eastern Shore, Garry Brown, Loudoun, and Christopher Romans, Abingdon (July 2008).
Congratulations to Northern District members, Jim Rankin, Lynn Dotson, Ellen Patterson, the Manassas Court Service Unit, and co-creator of the Manassas CSU Food Basket Program Lester Leonard. The group’s annual basket program was the recipient of one of two community service awards presented by the National Counseling Group at their 2nd Annual Public / Private Partnership Conference.
Go Courtney Bryant Wynn! Courtney just completed a Master of Science degree in Public Administration through Strayer Universirty. Courtney is a Tidewater District Member employed as Counselor II with the Newport News Juvenile Services.
Congratulations to Capital District member Charisa Smith on being published in the New Jersey Family Law Journal. Read her piece, "Don't Wait Up", here. Charisa is an attorney with the Legal Aid Justice Center in Richmond.
Kudos to the following colleagues from the Newport News Juvenile Services on their recent career milestones: Peggy Howard, Assistant Director, 7 years, Mangenious Jackson, Counselor, 6 years, Laura Mickens, Counselor II, 10 years, Sheena Christian-Howard, Detention Superintendent, 23 years, Dean Collins, Supervisor, 7 years, Beryl Massie-Brown, Counselor, 8 years, James Mason, Counselor, 7 years, Melanie Roberts, Senior Cook, 23 years, Malik Brice, Program Manager, 6 years, Pam Holland, Outreach Counselor, 20 years, Venus Jones, Counselor, 12 years, Charles Little, Counselor II, 10 years, Larry Powell, Senior Counselor, 9 years, Arthur Reynolds, Stock Clerk, 9 years, Lorenzo Sellars, Progrjam Administrator, 5+ years, Brenda Smith, Laudress, 9 years, and Josephine Burch, Outreach Counselor, 34 years.
The following colleagues from National Counseling Group recently celebrated milestones with the company: Sam Gray, 15 years, George Young 13 years, Debbie Sikes, 13 years, Sean Blair,10 years, Patrick Slifka, 9 years, Gretchen Abell, 8 years, Stephanie Ney, 8 years, Leslie Martin, 7 years, Holly Duggan, 7 years, Christopher Baham, 7 years, Oliver Agee, 5 years, and Frank Valentine, 5 years.
The Capital District welcomes Joy Lugar. The former Blue Ridge district member has moved to Richmond to accept the position of Executive Secretary to the Deputy Director of Community Programs for the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice. (July 2008).
The staff of the Alexandria Court Service Unit participated in Alexandria Community Services Day by providing painting, repair work, gardening and clean up services to the Sheltercare Program of Northern Virginia. The event was coordinated by Probation Officer Tasha Palmer.
Capital District Member CeCe Smith has been named Executive Director of Kids in Focus. She is responsible for oversight of the KIF program which employees a staff of 95 and includes 5 assessment and diagnostic homes serving children age 5 - 18. CeCe has previously been employed as the CSA Director for the City of Richmond and Director of the Bedford Youth & Family Services.
Capital District Member Trisha Batley is to be congratulated on her new position with the Supreme Court of Virginia. After six years serving as the Data & Systems Specialist with the Department of Juvenile Justice’s Division of Community Programs, Trisha has assumed a position with the Supreme Court. She will be primarily responsible for developing a new case management system for the agency’s foster care / neglect division. (July 2008)
Valley District Member and 2007 VJJA Scholarship Winner, Anne Clifford, a Senior Probation / Parole Officer with the Culpeper Court Service Unit, has completed a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice through the University of Cincinnati. Anne has been employed in the probation field, working in Chesapeake and Culpeper, for more than 20 years. Her thesis was entitled, "Why are so many Americans Experiencing Prison?" (June 2008).
Capital District Member Tammy Johnson has been promoted to Expeditor / Senior Probation Officer at the Richmond Court Service Unit. She will have a lead role with the Richmond Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI). Tammy has been with the Richmond Court Service Unit as a Probation Officer since 2006 and received certification as her unit’s Gang Specialist. Prior to beginning her work in probation, Tammy was employed by Beaumont Juvenile Correctional Center as a Counselor and later a Counselor Supervisor. She also worked at the Chesterfield Juvenile Detention Center as a Counselor Supervisor. Tammy completed a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Fairfax Volunteer Coordinator Johanna Balascio-Russell's colleagues report that her reason for keeping a low profile at the 2007 Fall Institute in Roanoke was because she was expected and recently welcomed baby Alivia Catherine Russell. Congratulations! (May 2008)
Charlene Ward, Capital District member, has earned a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree and launched directly into a course of study leading to a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at Virginia Commonwealth University. As part of her undergraduate studies, Charlene volunteered at United Methodist Family Services. Charlene is currently employed as the Executive Secretary Senior to the Department of Juvenile Justice’s Division of Institutions. (May 2008).
Tidewater Distrcit member, Marcella Williams, Training Coordinator with Newport News Juvenile Services, and her husband Daniel, just celebrated their 7 year wedding anniversary. (May 2008)
Members Andy Cohen, roboCUFF, and Todd Porter, BI Incorporated, announce a recent agreement through which BI will sell, service and support roboCUFF Voice Supervision Services under the BI brand names: BI VoiceID(R) powered by roboCUFF Voice Curfew Monitoring and BI Self Report(TM) powered by roboCUFF Voice Self Reporting. The agreement creates new opportunities for both BI and AnyTransactions to accelerate growth and provide innovative,
cost-effective, high-value services to community supervision agencies. AnyTransactions and BI continue to operate as independent companies, each serving customers directly, and VA DJJ Court Service Units can continue to order roboCUFF services under existing contracts. View Press Release: BI Announces Agreement with AnyTransactions, Inc. for roboCUFF Voice
Supervision Services, June 9, 2008, at:
www.robocuff.com/brochures (June 2008)
Debbie Ackerman, Family Therapist, and Elaine M. Butkiewicz, Probation Supervisor, of the Alexandria Court Service Unit presented at the Fifth Annual Parent Educators Symposium held in Richmond on May 8, 2008.
Kyle McMahon, Capital District, has moved from a residential to a community-based position with Intercept Youth Services. A former group home Program Manager, Kyle has accepted the position of In-Home Services Supervisor. The new position is part of Intercept’s new LifeBridge continuum of community based services, which is designed to cover the full spectrum of needs of youth and to coordinate the movement of youth through services until successful re-integration into the community is achieved. Prior to joining the Intercept team Kyle was employed by Family Focus, the Richmond Court Service Unit and the Roanoke Court Service Unit.
Eric Hopkins, an investigator in the Department of Juvenile Justice’s Inspector General’s Office, made state history late last year when he became the first person outside of the Virginia State Police Department’s 75 year history to attend and graduate from its prestigious State Police Training Academy. Eric’s attendance in the 18-week training allows him during the course of his duties with the DJJ to have law enforcement powers, including the power to arrest persons violating the law on DJJ property, as well as to conduct criminal investigations.
The 11th Court Service Unit and the City of Petersburg welcome Tracey Mason as their new Trial Release Officer (Expeditor). Prior to her position as the Trial Release Officer, Tracey worked as the Truancy Coordinator with the 11th CSU. She also completed an internship with the Richmond Drug Court and began work with the City of Petersburg as a part time surveillance officer with the Petersburg Juvenile Crime Control Program with the Evening Reporting Program in 2006. Tracey has an associate’s degree in human services and is currently seeking a degree in management and leadership.
Congratulations to Anthony J. Triplin of Norfolk, a student at Norfolk State University, on his appointment to the Governor’s Advisory Committee on Juvenile Justice. (7-2008).
Congratulations to DJJ Detention Specialist, Marilyn Brown and her husband on the arrival of a beautiful baby girl. Read more about Marilyn in the VADJJ’s March 2008 newsletter under “Vocal Sensation”
http://www.djj.virginia.gov/Resources/DJJ%20Partnership%20
Newsletter/volume4_issue1/Frontpage.pdf (June 2008)
Tidewater District Member, Antonio Sutton, has been named to the Governor's Advisory Committee on Juvenile Justice (Virginia's State Advisory Group - SAG). Antonio is the Deputy Director of the Norfolk Juvenile Court Service Unit.
The Honorable Jerrauld Jones, Tidewater District, has been named Virginia's representative to the Federal Advisory Committee on Juvenile Justice (FACJJ). Jones is presides in the Norfolk J & DR Court.
Kudos to Norfolk CSU Director Claudette Overton and Norfolk CSU Deputy Director Antonio Sutton who have each been tapped for the inaugural class of the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s Applied Leadership Network (ALN). Their selection was as a result of their significant leadership in Norfolk's Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI), Claudette and Antonio were selected from among juvenile justice leaders from throughout the country. Leadership teams in only seven localities were chosen for the the honor.
Kudos to long time member Betty Dixon on her recent milestone birthday and on her new position. After more than 15 years with Family Preservation Services / Providence, Betty has joined the management team of the National Counseling Group. (April 2008)
Congratulations to long time Tidewater District Member, Bill Harrell, on the occasion of his retirement from the Department of Justice. After a more than 40 year career in social services and juvenile justice, Bill recently retired as the Director of the Suffolk Court Service Unit. Learn more about Bill here.
VJJA President, Beth Stinnett, was among the speakers at the 2008 National Coalition of Juvenile Justice Conference, "Investing in Our Children: Emerging Reforms in Juvenile Justice", led in April in Washington, DC. Together with judges from the states of New Hampshire and Minnesota she delivered a workshop entitled, "State Advisory Group Leadership in Detention Reform". The workshop discussed the role of state advisory groups in detention reform and the importance of building detention reform into the state 3-year plan. Outcomes from grant-funded day and evening reporting centers and expeditor programs in Virginia's JDAI Sites were shared.
Congratulations to our colleagues in the City of Petersburg -- to include VJJA Capital District Members Frances Brown, Petersburg Court Service unit Director, The Honorable Judge James Hume, Petersburg J&DR Court, and Eric Campell, former Petersburg Assistant City Manager (now Assistant City Manager in Charlotte, NC). Their leadership has led to the Supported Alternatives for Our Valued Youth (SAVY), an initiative of the City of Petersburg, has been recognized by the national group the Alliance for Innovation. Each year the group presents awards for outstanding achievement in local government innovation. The 2008 awards will be officially presented in a ceremony at the 2008 Transforming Local Government Conference, scheduled for Greenville, SC, in June. Petersburg Court Service Unit Director Frances Brown serves as SAVY Chair and will travel to the event to accept the award on behalf of the SAVY team. SAVY, which is a second generation effort that grew out of the city's involvement with the Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI) was selected for the honor from a competative field of more than 80 entries. (April 2008)
Congratulations to Lloyd Merchant and his wife on the birth of their second child, Josiah. Josiah joined proud big sister Janiah. Lloyd is a Senior Probation Office with the Roanoke Court Service Unit. (April 2008)
The Honorable Teena Grodner, The Honorable Jay Dugger, Retired Judge Kimberly O'Donnell, Lelia Hopper, John Tuell, Beth Stinnett, Robert Bermingham, Jr., and Kim Koeppen are among the esteemed faculty announced for the 71st Annual Conference of the National Council of Juvenile & Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ).
Congratulations to long time member Natalie Dalton on her new position with Psychiatric Solutions Inc. She will serve in a business development role. Natalie joins the private sector after more than 10 years with the Department of Juvenile Justice, where she most recently worked for the Division of Community Programs at the VADJJ's Central Headquarters in Richmond..
Go Julie Truitt!! Julie, (Virginia Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Sevices ), has been selected to participate in the Class of 2008 Minority Political Leadership Institute (MPLI). Through her participation Julie will be connected with esteemed members of our elected local, state and federal governments, particularly the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus Foundation. She will also be exposed to the operational dynamics of campaigning, fundraising, lobbying, and the significance of the impact the media has in political life. (March 2008)
Congratulations to Patricia Davis on her promotion to Probation Supervisor in the 28th Court Service Unit (Abingdon, Bristol, Marion). Prior to her promotion Patricia was a Probation Officer in Bristol and a Senior Probation Officer in Washington County. (In fact -- hired in September 1973, she was Bristol's first female Probation Officer). A Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) Patricia holds a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice.
Congratulations to Beth Stinnett on the professional milestone of 15 years employment with the Commonwealth of Virginia. Beth has been employed by the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice for nearly 13 years. Prior to that time she was employed by the Department of Corrections.
Welcome to the following new Probation Officers with the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice: Cecelia Brown, Alexandria, Deanna Bunton, Accomac, Dorothy Greer, Chesterfield, Damaris Feleke, Arlington, Deshaun Foster, Hampton, Susan Funk, Virginia Beach, Mia Moore, Hampton, Katrina Oates, Fredericksburg, Jeremy Patterson, Norfolk, Detrina Pendarvis, Richmond, Hao Pera, Arlington, Jeffrey Renner, Chesterfield, Erik Wiggins, Fredericksburg.
Congratulations to Deshaun Foster, Hampton Probation Officer, on the completion of his Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Troy University. Robert_Hiatt_3-2008.jpg
Kudos to Vickie Jennings who was promoted to Probation Supervisor in the Lynchburg Court Service Unit. Prior to that time Vickie was a Probation Officer.
Karen Rice, Roanoke Probation Officer, had an editorial, "Don't Let Medication Replace Parenting", published in the Roanoke Times. Read the article online:
http://www.roanoke.com/editorials/commentary/wb/154233
(March 2008)
Robert Hiatt is to be congratulated on his recent promotion to Probation Supervisor at the Martinsville Court Service Unit.
Congratulations to Kevin Curling, Tidewater Member, who has been named the VA Department of Juvenile Justice's Eastern Region Probation Officer of the Year. Kevin is employed as a Probation Officer in the agency's Chesapeake Court Service Unit. (March 2008)
Congratulations to the following new officers of the Virginia Detention Association of Post-Disposition Programs (VDAPP): Melinda Jarvis, President, Sara Jones, Vice President; Tammy Kruger, Secretary; and Pam Jeffries, Treasurer.
Rebecca (Moore) Stuart, Roanoke County Court Service Unit / VJCCCA, and her husband Jacob, welcomed their first child, a son, Andre'. (February 2008)
Elizabeth Williams McClure has accepted a position as an Adult Probation Officer with the Department of Corrections' Probation & Parole District #17 in Abingdon.
Kudos to Blue Ridge member Brian Henry, Roanoke Valley Juvenile Detention Home, on his recent promotion to Treatment Program Manager.
Special thanks to Thomas Minnick President and CEO of the National Counseling Group and his staff for their support and many contributions to the 31st Fall Juvenile Justice Instititute. NCG served as the event's Platinum Partner. Thanks as well to our Silver Level sponsor Stepping Stone Family Services and to Bronze Level sponsors Family Preservation Services, the Hughes Center for Exceptional Children, the Judge Rontenberg Center, Kidlink Referral Network (Keystone), and Liberty Point Health Care.
Probation Officer and Northern District member Christy Tribett Brown welcomed baby girl Payton Alexandra Brown on January 16, 2008. (January 2008)
Go Gayle Turner! Correction ... Gayle L. Turner, MBA! In addition to serving as the Director of the Chesterfield Court Service Unit, Gayle found time this year to complete a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree through the University of Phoenix.
Congratulations to Darcy Janson on her recent promotion to Probation Officer Senior. Darcy is employed by the 28th District Court Service Unit - Washington County.
Joanne Smith is to be congratulated on the occasion of her retirement from the position of Executive Director at the Middle Peninsula Juvenile Detention Commission / Merrimac Center in Williamsburg. Joanne is also stepping down after many years of exceptional leadership as the President of the Virginia Council on Juvenile Detention (VCJD). Prior to her retirement, Joanne was honored before her peers at the 31st Fall Juvenile Justice Institute and presented VJJA's 2007 Meritorious Award in the Area of Residential Services.
Congratulations to Peterbsurg CSU Director, Frances Hayes Brown, on her most recent educational milestone. Frances completed a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice thorugh the University of Cincinnati.
Congratulations to Tom Gooding, Williamsburg CSU Director, and Frances Brown, Petersburg CSU Director, for strutting their stuff and winning the TWIST CONTEST at the 31st Fall Institute Dance Social. Congrats as well to FLAT FOOTIN' Champion Sheila Parker, Rockbridge CSA, and runners up Shirley Thompson, Samantha Higgins, and Amy Darby alll from the 25th District CSU.
Past VJJA Scholarship Winner, Julie Truitt, Department of Mental Health,. Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Servises (DMHMRSAS), is to be congratulated on the completion of a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree through the University of Central Michigan.
Karen Rice, formerly of Blue Ridge Behavioral Healtcare and the Blue Ridge Juvenile Detention Home, has joined the staff of the Roanoke Court Servcie Unit. She completed Basic Skills for New Probation Officers in January.
After working in the private sector, Jason Bickmore, has returned to the Loudoun Court Service Unit as a Probation Officer. He completed Basic Skills for New Probation Officers in January.
Previously employed at the Culpeper JCC, Clinton White has joined the staff of the Charlottesville CSU. He completed Basic Skills for New Probation Officers in January.
The Department of Juvenile Justice welcomed the following new Probation Officers: Ebony Davis, Chesapeake CSU, Dana Barnett, Nikia Williams and Kayla Wolford, Virginia Beach CSU, John Konkel, Accomac CSU, Terrell Jackson, Petersburg CSU, Antoinette Sherman and Angela Williams, Richmond CSU, Clinton White, Charlottesville CSU, Leiilani Page and Caitlin Tracy, Arlington CSU, Jason Bickmore and Wendy Pineda, Loudoun CSU, Brady Buckles, Amanda Harmon and DeMarcus Wood, Manassas CSU, Karen Rice, Roanoke CSU, and Bradford Johnson, Grundy CSU.
Blue Ridge District member Rhianna Price, Salem Court Service Unit, and her husband Randy welcomed their first child, a son Dylan Scott.
Happy Retriement Jim! VJJA Board Member Jim Woolf, retired on January 1, 2008, from the Virginia Beach Court Service Unit. Jim also stepped down from his post as VJJA Vice President after more than a decade. We wish him well in his retirement.
Tidewater Member Shauna Franklin Epps has retired from the Department of Juvenile Justice. Shauna worked for the Hampton Court Service Unit for many years, but was most recently the VADJJ's statewide Disproportionate Minority Contact (DMC) Coordinator. Though retired from the VADJJ, Shauna will not be leaving the juvenile justice field, but rather beginning employment with the Center for Children's Law and Policy as their DMC Policy Specialist, located in their Washington, DC, office. Her work will be supported through a grant from the MacArthur Foundation's Models for Change initiative. She will be focusing on DMC issues in Louisiana and Pittsburg.
Members Scott Reiner (VADJJ Division of Community Programs) and Jared Miller (VADJJ Research & Evaluation), together with colleague Tripti Gangal, authored an article entitled, "Public Safety Outcomes of Virginia's Detention Assessment Instrument". The article was published in the Juvenile & Family Court Judge Journal, Summer 2007 edition.
Congratulations to members Alan Hullette (Superintendent, Roanoke Valley Juvenile Detention), Colleen French (Superintendent, New River Valley Juvenile Detention), and Tim Smith (Superintendent, Shenandoah Valley Juvenile Detention), who have been elected to leadership posts with the Virginia Council on Juvenile Detention (VCJD).
Go Mike Sawyer! (Tidewater District) Mike was just named the Deputy Director of the 2nd Court Service Unit - Virginia Beach. Previously Mike was employed by the Tidewater Regional Group Home Commission. Mike is a former member of the VJJA Board of Directors.
Kudos to Greg Sampson, (Tidewater District), on his recent promotion. Greg just accepted the position of Probation Supervisor with the 13th District CSU - Richmond. Previously he was a Probation Officer with the 9th CSU - Yorktown.
Congratulations to Olymphia Perkins (Tidewater District). Olymphia has been selected Director of the 2nd Court Service Unit in Virginia Beach. Previously Olymphia was a Probation Supervisor in the VA Beach office. She has also worked for the 7th District CSU in Newport News and has more than 21 years experience in juvenile justice.
Tidewater District Officer, Patrick DeLauder, Portsmouth CSU, just celebrated the careeer milestone of 30 years with the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Congratulations to Capital District Member, Caroel Selby, of the Department of Juvenile Justice's Certification Unit (a former State Officer and VJJA Board of Directors Member) on his impending retirement. Caroel will retire on 1/1/2008 after more than 35 years of employment with the Commonwealth of Virginia. We wish him well.
Kudos to Tina Kilby on her recent promotion. Previously with the Norfolk Court Service Unit, Tina is now an Intake Supervisor with the Virginia Beach Court Service Unit.
Kudos to Julie Truitt (Virginia Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Sevices ) and Anne Clifford (Culpeper CSU) who each won $500 professional development scholarships during the 31st Fall Juvenile Justice Institute.
Go Katharine Hunter! Katharine has accepted a position with the Virginia Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Sevices (DMHMRSAS) and will focus her efforts on Mental Health programming in Virginia's Secure Detention facilities. She will be leaving her position as an Expeditor with the Richmond Juvenile Court / Children's Justice Center.
Demian Futterman is to be congratulated on his new position as Grant Monitor with the Department of Criminal Justice Services. Demian until recently was employed in the North Carolina Juvenile Justice system. He also previously worked as the Census Manager at the Norfolk Detention Home. Congrats and welcome back to Virginia!
Capital District member Kyle McMahon has a new job. He will be working as a Program Manager for Intercept Youth Services. Kyle was until recently employed by Family Focus. Prior to that he was a Probation Officer in the cities of Roanoke and Richmond.
Past President Tom Currier's son Aaron was married to Mandy Kehl in September. The marriage took place in Hellertown, PA on the 18th green of the Silver Creek Country Club. The couple will make their home in Wilmington, NC.
Capital District member Bryan Carver has been promoted to Assistant Director Field Investigations (SWVA), with the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation's Compliance and Investigations Division.
One of the most influential defenders of children in the U.S. lives in Virginia. So why haven't you heard of him? Read The Quiet Advocate to learn more.
Tidewater District Vice Chair Katherine Grimm, a Portsmouth CSU Supervisor, has a new guy in her life -- see photo
Not to be outdone by Ms. Grimm, Blue Ridge District Chair Susan Farmer reports that she recently found and rescued the love of her life on the 15th hole of Hanging Rock Golf Course. Meet Callaway.
Congratulations to Tidewater District member Sarah Wray and her husband David who just welcomed their first child, Grace Elizabeth Wray. Sarah is a Parole Officer with the Portsmouth Court Service Unit.
The warmest of wishes to longtime Tidewater District member and VJJA Board of Directors member Jim Woolf, a CSU Deputy Director in VA Beach, on the occasion of his 65th Birthday!
Congratulations to Northern district member, Kaye Wallace, on her recent promotion. Formerly the Family Abuse Officer at the Loudoun Court Service Unit, Kaye recently assumed the position of Criminal Justice Analyst for Loudoun County. Ms. Wallace also serves as the Domestic Abuse Response Team (DART) Coordinator for Loudoun Co.
VJJA President Beth Stinnett and Tidewater District members the Honorable Judge Jerrauld Jones and Dotty Kello (Norfolk CSU Deputy Director) were among the presenters at the mandatory Statewide Judicial Conference held in Virginia Beach.
Congratulations to Tidewater District member and state Board of Directors member Diane Floyd (now Diane Shelton), a Virginia Beach CSU Supervisor, on her recent nupituals.
Portsmouth Probation Supervisor Katherine Grimm, who serves as VJJA’s Tidewater District Chair went to jail to help fight muscular disease.
VJJA Director of Membership Samantha Higgins is sporting a new hairdo after donating several inches of hair to the "Locks of Love" program while participating in a Relay for Life event in Rockbridge County.
Longtime member Rodney Hubbard and wife Debbie have a new grandchild. The parents of 5 sons -- the Hubbard 5 – they welcomed their third granddaughter.
Way to go Kevin Sutton! (Capital District member) Kevin has been named one of two new Probation Supervisors at the 12th District Court Service Unit - Chesterfield.
Congratulations to Valley District member Anne Clifford on her recent promotion to Senior Probation Officer for the 16th Court Service Unit - Charlottesville.
Always the entrepreneur, Tidewater district member, Don Willis, has launched a new business - Village Events LTD. Check out his latest venture here: www.villageevents.org
Capital District member Jennifer Julian is to be congratulated on her recent promotion to Probation Supervisor in the 12th District Court Service Unit - Chesterfield.
VJJA President Beth Stinnett recently spoke at the National Association of Counties (NaCO) annual conference. She presented a workshop entitled, "Breaking the Cycle of Recidivism Before It Starts". She was joined in her presentation by the Honorable Judge Jay Dugger, Hampton J&DR Court.
Congratulations to Tidewater District member Sean Milner who was named Director of the 2A Court Service Unit - Accomac.
Having trouble keeping up with the upwardly mobile, Amy Morgan (Blue Ridge District Member)? Amy is to be congratulated once more after being named Assistant Superintendent at the Roanoke Valley Juvenile Detention Center. Prior to her recent appointment, Amy was the Director of Sanctuary Crisis Intervention Center.
Go Blue Ridge Member Aileen Lewis! A past winner of the VJJA Scholarship, Aileen completed a Master of Arts degree in Human Relations Counseling at Liberty University.
Tidewater District member John Curl retired after more than 30 years in juvenile justice on the Eastern Shore.
Kudos to colleague Marilyn Miller (now Marilyn Brown) and her husband Stephen on their recent nuptials in Stowe, Vermont.
Godspeed Booster! VJJA members (particularly those from the Valley District) will recognize the name Johnny "Booster" Wheeler. Sadly, Mr. Wheeler passed away on June 27, 2007, after a long illness. He was 60. While employed at Natural Bridge JCC, Mr. Wheeler was long active in VJJA. This photograph of Booster was taken at VJJA's 2002 Fall Juvenile Justice Institute, the last he attended. The family requests that any memorial contributions be made to Rockbridge Area Hospice, P.O. Box 948, Lexington, VA 24450. Booster's name will be added to the VJJA Memorial Plague.
Congratulations to Tidewater District member Michelle Burroughs (now Michelle Burroughs-Vanhook) and her husband Dex who tied the knot on May 26. And best wishes to Dex who is on active duty in Hawaii.
Way to Go Bruce! Long time Tidewater district member Bruce Bright celebrated 40 years as an employee of the Commonwealth of Virginia. He is employed as the Director of the 2nd District Court Service Unit in Virginia Beach.
DJJ Employees Reach Career Milestones! Congrats to the following DJJ employees who were recognized for their career milestones at a recent luncheon 25 years - Grace A. Allison, Lou Anne Bennet, Gloria R. Bonner, Syliva G. Boston, Noel Brown, James L. Brown, Stephen Charlson, Diane T. Clemins, Diana J. Counts, Julius N. Day, Thomas J. Deane, Sharon P. Dearing, Charles E. Dockery, Carole J. Dunn, Linda B. Fain, Donnell Flanagan, Sharrell W. Fowler, Judith L. Fulgham, Diane Gittman, Robert Hash, Michelle D. Jenkins, Glenn A. Lavoie, Katherine K. McAloose, Samuel J. Moore, Bryan S. Mullins, Byrne L. Nelson, Richard G. Patrick, Deloras H. Puett, Douglas Robinson, Patricia Ruffin, Sylvia E. Smithers, Elizabeth F. St. John, Rosa Stevens, Thomas V. Taylor, Elliott J. Thompson, Teresa Trapani, Gregory Whittaker; 30 Years - Linda A. Anderson, Gloria P. Bartley, George H. Beane, Larry A. Bell, Denis Boudreau, Robert C. Carpenter, Martha D. Carroll, Angela Christopher, Lylas Cooper, Genie Crawford, Kathryn B. Dickerson, Robert C. Douglas, Shauna F. Epps, Diane Floyd, Willie M. Green, Alfredda K. Griffin, Barbara M. Gwin, Deobrah D. Hatfield, Malcolm W. Hite, Jr., Susan V. Inman, Frank O. Johnson, Bobbie L. Krohn, Ronald Lassiter, Ronald D. Marshall, Eunice W. May, Robert C. Nace, Claudette R. Overton, Stephen T. Pierce, W. Stephen Pullen; 35 Years – William J. Sharkey, Chyrl K. Sheffey, Gurney F. Smith, Jr., Glenda Taylor Snead, Angela M. Valentine, Samuel White, Joyce Wingate; 30 Years – James V. Caffrey, John E. Curl, Donald W. Driscoll, Sharon Holloway, Thomas Gooding, David Jones, Carolyn C. Leftwich, Sonja Manning, Nancy Jane B. McClure, Edward Murray, Mary M. Neal, Cathy C. Plunkett, William Schoof, Caroel L. Selby, Thomas A. Young.
Congratulations to colleague Andy Block on receiving the 2007 Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year in Virginia. Mr. Block also recently testified at a crime summit on Capitol Hill that policies promoting the transfer of youth to the adult criminal justice system are harmful and counterproductive. The crime summit was hosted by Virginia Congressman Robert (Bobby) Scott who chairs the House Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security. Block was a speaker at VJJA’s 30th Fall Juvenile Justice Institute and in his role as Co-Chair of the Virginia Coalition for Juvenile Justice partnered with VJJA to successfully champion HB 3007 (changes to the transfer bill). Andy is the founder and Legal Director of JustChildren and a graduate of Yale and the Northwestern University School of Law. Before law school, he spent a year teaching in a rural Kenyan village and two years leading wilderness trips for young people in New Mexico’s juvenile justice and mental health systems.
James Rankin, Northern District Member, was named President of the Court Service Unit Director's Association.
