Awards and Appreciation, Beyond the Badge

Calipatria salutes administrative professionals

April 29, 2024

Calipatria leadership serves food during Administrative Professionals Day.

On Wednesday, April 24, Calipatria State Prison (CAL) hosted a spring picnic themed lunch to honor the prison’s administrative professionals.

Administrative Professionals Day allows the CAL Management Team to show their appreciation and gratitude for the hard work and dedication of their CDCR and CCHCS administrative staff.

Did you know? In 1952, Secretaries Day was created to recognize the efforts of receptionists, assistants, and secretaries. Over the years, “secretaries” no longer reflected the jobs being honored so it evolved to become Administrative Professionals Day.

On the morning of the 24th, all hands were on deck as managers transformed the A Visiting Room into a daisy-filled picnic area. Tables were set, decorations were placed, and a food assembly line was established.

At 11:30 a.m., the honorees began to arrive to the picnic site with multiple arrays of flower bouquets, gingham table coverings and picnic baskets filling the room. As they entered, they were greeted by managers who thanked them for their hard work and dedication.

Then they proceeded to serve them a well-earned meal. The celebrated staff enjoyed pulled pork, grilled chicken with vegetables, a variety of salads, drinks and deserts. Each person being recognized also received a gift following the picnic. They said they were grateful for prison leadership hosting the event.

“It was a very nice and thoughtful event,” said Melissa Peña.

Deborah Shehan agreed.

“The food was delicious, it was decorated very nicely, it was great and awesome event,” she said.

Omar Hurtado said he felt appreciated and enjoyed bonding with others.

“I had a great time spending time with my coworkers and feeling appreciated for my efforts,” he said.

The warden and CEO expressed their appreciation to their administrative professionals by thanking them for their commitment, dedication and, above all, their professionalism.

Submitted by Lt. Efren Uribe