CLA to Lead the Nation’s Probation & Parole Chiefs Network Beginning in 2026
TheCorrectional Leaders Association(CLA) is excited to announce that beginning in2026, CLA will lead theNation’s Probation & Parole Chiefs Network, bringing the leaders of probation and parole agencies across the country into the CLA family.
“This is a game-changer,” saidRob Jeffreys, Director of theNebraska Department of Correctional Servicesand current CLA President. “Having the leaders of Probation and Parole as part of our CLA family strengthens our mission. P&P Chiefs play a critical role in helping our communities achieve public safety while providing individuals with opportunities to change and successfully reenter society.”
As part of this transition, CLA will launch its firstProbation & Parole Chiefs Conference in March 2026, followed by a second meeting inSeptember 2026. Beginning in 2026, the P&P Chiefs will meetat the same location as the CLA Deputy Directors, creating new opportunities for collaboration, shared learning, and leadership development across correctional systems.
CLA looks forward to supporting and strengthening the Probation & Parole Chiefs Network and expanding collaboration across the correctional leadership community.
2025 Award Recipients
2025 Michael Francke Career Achievement Award Secretary Ricky D. Dixon
Congratulations to Secretary Ricky D. Dixon with the Florida Department of Corrections, recipient of the 2025 Michael Francke Career Achievement Award. Well Deserved!
This award honors the memory of Michael Francke, and recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service.
2025 Tom Clements Innovation and Achievement Award Director Rob Jeffreys
Congratulations to Director Rob Jeffreys of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, the 2025 recipient of the Tom Clements Innovation and Achievement Award. His outstanding leadership and impact on the corrections profession truly reflect the values of this prestigious award.
This award was created in 2015 to honor the memory of Tom Clements, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Corrections. This award was established to identify one CLA member who displays innovation and achievement, two of Clements qualities before his life was taken from us.
2025 Tom Clements Innovation and Achievement Award Former Secretary Kellie Wasko
Congratulations to Former South Dakota Department of Corrections, Secretary Kellie Wasko, the 2025 recipient of the Tom Clements Innovation and Achievement Award! Her great achievements and efforts greatly reflect the values of this honored award.
This award was created in 2015 to honor the memory of Tom Clements, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Corrections. This award was established to identify one CLA member who displays innovation and achievement, two of Clements qualities before his life was taken from us.
2025 Louie L. Wainwright Award Jeffrey Beard
Congratulations to Former California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Secretary, Jeffrey Beard, the 2025 recipient of the Louie L. Wainwright Award! His remarkable achievements and continued dedication to the profession embody the excellence and commitment exemplified by Louie Wainwright.
Created in 2004, the Louie L. Wainwright Award recognizes a former Director of corrections who, as an Associate member, has continued to make significant contributions to the field and to the Association, reflecting the professional standards of one of the most respected correctional leaders in American history.
