The second Shining Star awards ceremony, honoring staff nominated by the population, was held at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center.
This ceremony, inspired by the California Model initiative, offers the incarcerated population a unique opportunity to recognize and celebrate custody, non-custody, and medical staff who have made a positive difference in their lives.
The Shining Star awards ceremony, now in its second month, allows incarcerated individuals to nominate staff who have demonstrated exceptional care, understanding, and support.
This month, one of the standout honorees was Dr. Pachinski, one of San Quentin’s medical executives. Pachinski was recognized for her medical expertise as well as her compassionate approach to incarcerated health care.
The California Model initiative aims to transform the correctional environment by fostering rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. By empowering incarcerated to acknowledge the positive influences in their lives, the Shining Star awards embodies the spirit of this initiative.
During the ceremony, the population shared personal stories of how the nominated staff members, particularly Pachinski, have impacted their journeys.
One person recounted how Pachinski took the time to listen and address his health concerns, making a significant difference in his overall well-being. The doctor thanked them for the recognition, emphasizing the importance of building trust and rapport in a correctional setting.
San Quentin staff nominations
Other staff who were nominated include:
- Sgt. L. Perez
- Correctional officers A. Lara, A. Brooks, R. Cruz, J. Damien, S. Hoggan, J. Rios, M. Payton, M. Wallis, and L. Romero
- Coding Class Facilitator K. Gilbert
- California Prison Industry Authority Coding Supervisor J. Gripshover
- Vocational Instructor M. Valdez
- Peer Literatcy Mentor M. Washington
- Physician and Surgeons J. Clark, E. Ojukwu, E. Tootell, and S. Pajong
- Supervising Registered Nurse II K. Dunevant.
The ceremony was attended by various correctional administration, correctional officers, health care professionals, education staff, vocational staff, and all of whom celebrated the nominees’ contributions to creating a more humane correctional environment.
As the Shining Star ceremony continues to grow, it reflects a vital shift in how correctional facilities engage with their populations.
The acknowledgment of positive behaviors and contributions fosters a culture of respect and understanding, paving the way for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Submitted by Lt. G. Berry
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