Sarah Smith, Ombudsman Chief with CDCR Headquarters, has seen many changes over her career. Excited about retirement and her future, she takes a moment to reflect on nearly three decades of service.
Beginning her career as a limited term office technician, one year turned into two, and so on. She saw CDCR as an organization full of opportunities for upward mobility, and a place full of family.
“As I look back on this amazing career with CDCR, I know it has been fueled by support, leadership, mentorship, and friendship,” she said. “I wasn’t able to do it all on my own. It required everyone I’ve encountered along the way to help me.”
Smith was first assigned to California State Prison, Corcoran as the state was depopulating mental health institutions. It was also the days of overcrowded institutions. She saw the department shift from corrections to begin focusing on rehabilitation and mental health.
“I didn’t realize then what was going on,” she recalls.
She was later assigned to Kern Valley State Prison and Pleasant Valley State Prison. Then she made her way to headquarters.
Chief Ombudsman Smith on lessons learned
A typical day for her as an Ombudsman required maneuvering – juggling the review of current policies and procedures, touring facilities throughout California, and communicating with staff, incarcerated persons, and families. While some might find the job overwhelming, Smith said she enjoyed it.
“I had to take the time to observe and listen from a boots-on-the-ground perspective to make policy recommendations,” she explained.
Now heading into retirement, she said she is excited for this next chapter in life.
“I was really bad at work-life balance during my career,” she laughs.
She felt to do her job correctly and with her whole heart, she had to give it her all. When eligible for retirement, she grappled with the idea of leaving.
“People looking to retire – you always want to look forward to where you want to go and why,” Smith said. “It’s equally important to look back and see who is behind you.”
She believes when we all reach the end of our careers, we have more steps behind us than in front of us.
Smith plans to spend her retirement years with her dad, who was recently diagnosed with cancer.
She is also looking forward to spending more time with her kids who are also having kids of their own.
Grateful for her own good health and spirits, Smith will be enjoying these years with her family.
Story by Emily Idleman, associate governmental program analyst
Office of Public and Employee Communications
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