Winning Nomination
Administration Award 2005

Our candidate for the 2005 VJJA Meritorious Award for Administration began his career in juvenile justice over three decades ago.  This candidate grew up in New Market, Virginia a small rural community in the Shenandoah Valley.  He attended Blue Ridge Community College graduating with an Associate of Arts degree in 1969, then attended and graduated from Madison College (now James Madison University) in Harrisonburg, in 1971 with a Bachelor’s of Social Work degree.  One week later upon graduation this candidate began his employment as a juvenile probation officer for Prince William County, Virginia.  After serving in many different capacities, this candidate was promoted in 1982 to Assistant Director.  While working fulltime, he attended graduate school and in 1980 received a Master’s degree in Administration of Justice and Public Safety from Virginia Commonwealth University.  In 1992, he was promoted to the position of Director of the 31st District Court Service Unit a position that he currently holds.  This candidate continues to provide positive leadership and direction to a unit of 55 + employees.  In addition, since Prince William County is one of the fastest growing communities in the nation, this candidate has effectively assisted in securing innovative programs for our community.  These programs include a Day Reporting Center, two group homes, juvenile detention center, less secure shelter facility, diversion programs in the intake department, Intensive Probation Services, Drug Court, volunteer opportunities, and specialized sex offender programming.  This candidate promotes spirited teamwork among his staff and is a positive and well respected leader at the 31st Court Service Unit.  Not only is this candidate a cornerstone in the workplace, his spirit extends to the community.  This candidate is a loving husband to his wife, Saranna, father to three sons and special father to a daughter.  He is the grandfather of four biological children and two special grandsons.  Through the years, he has coached many youth soccer teams, been an active participant in community sports leagues and is actively involved in the First Baptist Church, where he currently serves as Chair of the Deacon Board.  He is an avid Redskin fan.  Not only giving of his time, but of himself, he was instrumental in beginning the 31st CSU Food Basket Project held every Christmas.  This endeavor began approximately 30 years ago and now provides groceries for over 60 families in our community.

In summary, our candidate exhibits all of the qualities of not only an effective Court Service Unit Director, but a caring, giving leader in the community in which he resides.  We feel honored to nominate, James David Rankin, Jr. for this award.