Two DOC Managers Receive Governor’s Leadership Award

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                     May 21, 2009

Two Department of Corrections managers are among the 16 state leaders who were recognized by Governor Chris Gregoire for their outstanding leadership. 

Human Resources Director Donna Haley and Washington State Penitentiary Superintendent Stephen Sinclair received the Governor’s Leadership in Management Award May 19 at the executive mansion.

Haley oversees Human Resources for the Department. She is a key leader for the Department and belongs to the executive staff group and the Extended Leadership Team. She has more than 25 years of experience in administrative and executive leadership roles and was nominated for her innovative strategies for changing the culture of HR. She recently revamped the hiring process in order to meet hiring targets for a major prison expansion in 2007. The new process resulted in 204 officers being hired at Washington State Penitentiary where previously an average of 45 officers were hired each year.

“Donna is moving HR operations from an enforcement-oriented culture to a culture of accountability, collaboration and consultation,” said Denise Doty, DOC Assistant Secretary. “She exemplifies the highest standards of integrity, ethics, and professional conduct.” 

Sinclair joined the Department in 1988. He was promoted through the ranks and became Superintendent of the Penitentiary in August 2008. Sinclair was nominated for his development and implementation of several processes for reducing violence at the Penitentiary. His violence-tracking and prevention processes have resulted in a measurable reduction of violent incidents.

“People may not realize the enormity of what we asked Steve Sinclair to accomplish,” said Deputy Prisons Directory Dan Pacholke. “We asked him to drastically change the culture and management of one of the most challenging prisons in the state. He has succeeded in this venture using his incredible leadership skills, his innovation and his determination.” 

The Governor’s Award for Leadership in Management was created in 1985 to recognize state government leaders who demonstrate excellent performance. Agencies nominate leaders for the award, which are voted on by a selection committee.


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Contact:  Maria Peterson, Communications Department, (360) 725-8804


 


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