Week in Review: October 10, 2025

October 10, 2025

In this October 10 Week in Review, we spotlight CIW’s first bachelor of arts cohort, PBSP visiting Del Norte High School, and CMC hosting ACEs panel.

In Our Institutions

PBSP population raises $8,000 for local charities

The incarcerated population at Pelican Bay State Prison (PBSP) rallied to raise $8,228 through a food sale fundraiser. The proceeds were split and donated to two local charities, the Del Norte Sheriff Search and Rescue and the North Coast Marine Mammal Center. By choosing to support the Del Norte Sheriff Search and Rescue, the population is helping ensure the search for missing persons and critical emergency response services continue to effectively operate. The donation to the North Coast Marine Mammal Center will assist in the rescue and rehabilitation of injured marine animals, a cause resonating deeply within the coastal community.

The generous acts made by the PBSP population is more than just a financial contribution. It reflects a desire to give back and make a meaningful difference. The funds donated enable both charities to continue their essential work, reinforcing the impact that such gestures of goodwill can have on communities. “This initiative from the incarcerated population is a great example of how individuals can contribute positively to their community, no matter their circumstances,” said Warden Stephen Smith. “Their dedication to supporting these vital local charities truly embodies a spirit of giving back and making a meaningful difference.”

PBSP donation to the North Coast Marine Mammal Center — North Coast Marine Mammal Center

PBSP donation to the Del Norte Sheriff Search and Rescue — North Coast Marine Mammal Center

CMC hosts ACEs panel with Compassion Prison Project

The California Men’s Colony (CMC) recently hosted a powerful adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) panel presentation in partnership with the Compassion Prison Project.

CMC's ACEs panel at East Facility Visiting

Held in East Facility Visiting, incarcerated participants shared personal experiences of childhood trauma in front of a large audience of staff and fellow incarcerated individuals.

The panel was part of a broader effort to raise awareness about the long-term impacts of early adversity and toxic stress. ACEs included a wide abuse, neglect, household dysfunction, and exposure to violence. These childhood experiences can significantly affect a person’s physical and mental health throughout life.

During the event, incarcerated persons Shaun Bennett and Raphael Hernandez were among the few who courageously spoke about their lives. Their stories contributed to a meaningful dialogue that centered on healing, empathy, and the importance of trauma-informed approaches.

CHCF raises awareness for suicide prevention

The staff and incarcerated population at California Health Care Facility (CHCF) in Stockton came together to raise awareness for suicide prevention. Throughout the four-day event, participants engaged in a variety of activities designed to promote connection, understanding, and hope.

The week kicked off with an ice cream social for the incarcerated population, followed by heartfelt testimonials and speeches from both staff and residents. Additional activities included a Home Run Derby, a three-point basketball game, a Family Feud competition, and a Unity Circle that encouraged open dialogue and support.

Outside organizations also joined the effort, providing educational talks and resources to further promote suicide prevention awareness among staff and the incarcerated population. To continue spreading positivity throughout the week, inspirational quotes submitted by residents were shared daily on the population’s tablets.

incarcerated booth at CHCF's suicide awareness event

Rehabilitation

CIW celebrates first cohort of Cal State’s bachelor program

Recently, 22 incarcerated students at the California Institution for Women (CIW) in Corona graduated with Bachelor of Arts degrees from California State University, Los Angeles. These graduates are the first women to earn a degree through the Prison Graduation Initiative, a historic collaboration between CDCR and Cal State LA.

“Higher education is key to the transformation and growth that we see today from many of the students graduating,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “I’m proud to see them taking a step in the right direction to contribute positively to our society.”

Each year thousands of incarcerated people are enrolled in programs that meet their educational needs to prepare them with skills for reentry into their communities. At the graduation ceremony, sports icon and Cal State LA alumni Billie Jean King was the keynote speaker.

“Never stop learning and never stop learning how to learn. Be a problem solver and an innovator. Only you graduates understand what it took to earn this degree,” King said. “This can be a turning point. Use your new platform, live your new future. Today is your day. Keep believing in yourself, keep dreaming and keep going for it.”

The Prison Graduation Initiative began in 2016 at California State Prison, Los Angeles County in Lancaster. To date, 73 students have earned bachelor’s degrees while incarcerated, including 21 who seamlessly completed their coursework at Cal State LA after paroling.

“I am proud to be a part of a rehabilitative program that appreciates me for the woman I am today, and the value of my thoughts and inspiration of my voice,” said Cal State LA graduate Jennifer Henderson. “LWOP (life without parole) now means to live with opportunity and purpose. I chose to grow and develop my mind and spirit and empower others to live beyond any label.”

In the Community

CHCF donates back-to-school supplies

Staff from the California Health Care Facility (CHCF) came together to deliver back to school supplies to Cleveland Elementary School in Stockton.

CHCF staff donating backpack to local boy

Through generous donations from staff, the incarcerated population, and Victory Praise Church, the facility was able to donate over 600 backpacks filled with essential supplies.

The incarcerated population and staff worked together to fill backpacks to ensure each grade level received what they needed to start the school year. Teachers also received classroom essentials such as tissues, sanitizing wipes, and stationery items.

“The smiles on all the students’ faces were incredibly heartwarming. A small community contribution like this can really make a difference in a student’s journey toward a brighter future,” said acting Chief Deputy Warden Michael Brown. “It is an opportunity to make sure a lack of supplies doesn’t hinder student learning and inspires them to aim high.”

CHCF staff also adopted 20 students in need, providing them with special gifts and new clothing to help them continue the school year with confidence and joy.

PBSP lieutenant inspires high school students

Pelican Bay State Prison (PBSP) Correctional Lt. Robyn Fillippa visited students at Del Norte High School to talk about the rewarding career opportunities within CDCR. Fillippa is a 19-year veteran of the department with a long CDCR family history. Both of her parents were officers who rose through the ranks, as is her husband.

When Fillippa joined CDCR, her goal was to secure a good-paying job. Her perspective has since evolved into a deep appreciation for the work and a drive to advance her career.

“The most rewarding aspects of this career are the people I work with daily, the jobs available, and the stability it provides for me and my family,” Fillippa told the students.

She emphasized the relationships forged with her co-workers often felt like family, given the years she’s spent working alongside the same individuals.

For students interested in pursuing a CDCR career, Fillippa outlined the application requirements, the process of becoming a correctional officer, and life at the academy. She also spoke about non-custody and medical field CDCR career opportunities available after graduating high school. These positions would get students into state service and when they were old enough, and still interested in custody positions, they could apply as an officer. Fillippa touched on topics ranging from accumulating service time toward retirement to touring correctional facilities.

“Lt. Fillippa’s career path is just one of many available paths within CDCR,” said Chief Deputy Warden Michael Betzinger. “Her commitment to sharing her experience with the next generation is a true representation of the model and professionalism we strive for every day.”

Overall, it was a successful presentation and a strong representation of the department from Lt. Fillippa.

CDCR, CCHCS employees attend Tip-A-Cop event

CDCR employees from the Division of Adult Institutions (DAI) and the California Transportation Hub joined law enforcement agencies in the Sacramento area at the annual Top Golf Tip-A-Cop event in Roseville. Agencies volunteered their time to serve tables and collect tips, all benefiting Northern California Special Olympics athletes.

Tip-A-Cop events are part of a year-long Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) campaign to raise awareness and funds to provide children and adults with intellectual disabilities education, health, sports, and leadership programs. These programs and funds are essential to providing a positive impact to the lives of Special Olympic athletes, allowing them to participate at no cost to them or their families.

Officer Urrea serving food at Tip A Cop event at Top Golf in Roseville

Officer Urrea and family at Top Golf, Roseville

Recruitment

Recruitment events are happening near you!

Oct. 18 – Sac State Football Game, California State University, Sacramento*
Oct. 20 – Sac State Criminal Justice Dept. Tabling, California State University, Sacramento*
Oct. 22 – Virtual Career Fair
Oct. 23 – YoloWorks! Job Fair, 1110 W Capitol Ave, West Sacramento*
Oct. 24 – Sac State Football Game, California State University, Sacramento*
Oct. 31 – Delta College Public Safety Career Fair, San Joaquin Delta College Quad*

*Registration for these recruitment events is not required.

In the Media

decorative image: source, Google Street View

California Enacts Restitution First Act to Prioritize Financial Recovery of Crime Victims

In a move signifying a shift toward victim-centered justice, California has enacted the Restitution First Act, positioning the financial recovery of crime victims at the forefront of the justice system’s responsibilities.

The Prison Graduation Initiative's inaugural cohort at the California Institution for Women in Chino celebrates Commencement with Cal State LA President Berenecea Johnson Eanes and tennis icon and equality champion Billie Jean King. (Credit: J. Emilio Flores/Cal State LA)

Cal State LA’s Prison Graduation Initiative graduates first women’s cohort, opening new paths at California Institution for Women

Cal State LA’s Prison Graduation Initiative (PGI) was well grounded by the time the university introduced the program to the California Institution for Women (CIW) in Chino in 2022.