Awards and Appreciation, Inside CDCR Video, Prison Health Care

Jasinda Muhammad honored with CalHR Award

November 7, 2025

The California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) honored Jasinda Muhammad, Deputy Director of Human Resources for California Correctional Health Care Services (CCHCS), with the 2025 CalHR Robert L. Negri Human Resources Achievement Award. The award, presented at the CalHR Conference in Sacramento, recognizes outstanding leadership, innovation, and excellence in the field of human resources.

Muhammad has more than 30 years of state service, including 12 in executive leadership, and oversees a $49 million budget and a team of nearly 400 staff supporting more than 15,000 employees statewide. Her department has transformed the recruitment landscape by hosting large-scale recruitment events that streamline the process for candidates.

“She started hosting hiring events to recruit administrative and clinical staff to serve our patient population,” said Lara Saich, CCHCS Director of Health Care Policy and Administration. “We’ve had over 5,000 attendees at these one-day events. Candidates can take an exam, have an interview, and leave with a tentative job offer.

“It’s nothing that’s been done in state government to date.”

Under Muhammad’s leadership, CCHCS HR has also embraced technology-driven improvements and expanded professional development programs.

“Right now, I’m really focused on foundational HR automation and other initiatives that both help my HR staff in their work and support employees across the state,” Muhammad said.

Her approach to leadership is defined by collaboration and gratitude

“I will be the first to always say I cannot do it without my staff,” she said. “I have a tremendous amount of support and talent behind me.”

Muhammad began her state career at Pleasant Valley State Prison as an office assistant and steadily advanced through the human resources ranks.

“I went into payroll as a personnel specialist and worked my way up through that series to supervisor,” she said. “I always raised my hand for additional opportunities and assignments, just to fill the time and learn something new.”

“Don’t be afraid to raise your hand, utilize your resources and ask questions.”

For Muhammad, the award represents more than personal achievement. It’s a reflection of perseverance and service.

“After 30 years, I still love my job. I love my staff,” she said. “I appreciate the benefits that the stability of state service brings and the opportunities it provides.”

CalHR Acting Director Monica Erickson commends Muhammed

“Congratulations once again to Jasinda Muhammad for her exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence in human resources,” she said. “Your work truly embodies this year’s conference theme, ‘Embracing Change with Purpose,’ inspiring all of us to approach challenges with vision, courage, and intentional action.”

The CalHR Robert L. Negri Human Resources Achievement Award was established in memory of Robert “Bob” Negri, a pioneer in labor relations. Since its inception in 1993, only 23 recipients have received this distinguished recognition.

Video created by Bernadette Durley, TV Specialist

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