San Quentin Rehabilitation Center has launched the Shining Star Awards program, a new initiative recognizing staff contributions.
The program was spearheaded by Rhonda Litt, chief executive officer (CEO) over Health Care Services at San Quentin. Boosting staff morale while recognizing outstanding achievements, the initiative aims to foster a culture of appreciation.
The recent inaugural Shining Star Awards ceremony celebrated the first nominees. According to San Quentin leadership, the Shining Star program was so popular, it will probably be adopted by CDCR headquarters to recognize excellence in prisons across the state.
Nominations were made by the incarcerated population for their outstanding contributions. The nominations recognized staff members from various departments including custody, medical, non-custody and education.
Certificates were awarded in five categories:
- Mentorship and Support
- Positive Role Model
- Outstanding Communication
- Compassionate Peer
- and Exceptional Problem Solving.
Those recognized at the first ceremony are Correctional Officer S. Stribling, Librarian G. Loiderman, Education Teacher A. Stanciu, Painter III P. Simmons and Correctional Lt. B. Haub.
Litt congratulated the recipients for their efforts in building positive connections with the incarcerated population and breaking down barriers within San Quentin.
Warden Andes expressed his enthusiasm for the program.
“This was such a great idea that the state adopted it,” he said. “I look forward to seeing this program grow into something truly amazing.”
The Shining Star Program at San Quentin is a testament to the commitment of the staff to work together, regardless of their roles, to create a supportive and positive environment within the institution.
Submitted by Lt. Guim’Mara Berry
San Quentin Rehabilitation Center
See more awards and appreciation stories.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
Avenal State Prison shows staff appreciation
Avenal State Prison recognized and celebrated its dedicated staff with a variety of special appreciation events for an entire week.…
LAC hosts staff appreciation week
California State Prison, Los Angeles County (LAC), dedicated the week of June 15–19 to staff appreciation, honoring their hard work,…
CTF‑Soledad hosts annual Staff Appreciation Day
The Correctional Training Facility (CTF) at Soledad, in partnership with the CTF Employee Action Committee, recently hosted its annual Staff…
Grilling Up Gratitude: Calipatria State Prison celebrates staff
Calipatria State Prison hosted Grilling Up Gratitude, a staff appreciation event recognizing their dedication, professionalism and commitment. The July 1…
RJD celebrates 2026 staff appreciation week
Richard J Donovan (RJD) Correctional Facility celebrated employees with a vintage-themed 2026 staff appreciation week. The vibrant staff celebration ran…
Governor honors 13 CDCR staff at State Employee Medal of Valor
At the State Employee Medal of Valor ceremony held June 12, there were 13 CDCR staff members honored for their…