Awards and Appreciation

Mount Tamalpais College thanks CVSP staff

Prison staff and a college president stand beside food trucks.
College President Jody Lewen and Chuckawalla Valley State Prison staff.

Chuckawalla Valley State Prison (CVSP) staff were recently treated to breakfast and lunch, courtesy of Mount Tamalpais College. This event was presented to all CVSP staff in appreciation of their hard work and dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CVSP’s Community Resource Manager Kenny Kalian noted the enthusiasm of college President Jody Lewen, who traveled to meet and personally thank staff.

Food trucks from Phoenix, Arizona, arrived at 4 a.m. They started serving breakfast an hour later, serving staff who were ending first watch, as well as second watch as they showed up for work. This went on throughout the day on the different watches until 9:15 p.m. The effort allowed every CVSP employee on duty during that time frame to receive a breakfast and lunch.

“I just wanted to say I really enjoyed the Food Truck experience. Food was good, easy and convenient getting what you wanted and it really seemed to put all the staff in a good mood. Hope we can have more events in the future,” said Registered Nurse William Hazzard.   

In early March, Lewen returned to oversee the distribution of special care packages to the CVSP population. The packages were also presented by Mount Tamalpais College. The Investigative Services Unit was on hand with K-9 Badger to check the packages for contraband.

Warden David Holbrook and Chief Deputy Warden Christopher Pierce met with Lewen and thanked her on behalf of CVSP staff for their generosity during these trying times.

By Lt. JJ Hernandez

Learn more about the college at their website.

Related story: College thanks staff at PVSP.