Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) recently hosted its first Clover Awards Ceremony, recognizing staff who lead with integrity, courage, and humanity.
The Clover Award was created to formally recognize and honor staff who consistently rise above expectations as leaders and role models.
“Our Warden recognizes the importance of staff wellness, and we created the Clover Award to celebrate staff members who are always doing the right thing, even when no one is watching,” CCWF Public Information Officer, Lieutenant Monique Williams said.
The incarcerated population submitted anonymous ballots, voting for staff members they felt were positive role models, mentors, communicated well, provided compassionate care, and excellent problem-solving skills. All nominees were thoughtfully recognized.
The 15 staff members who received the Top Finalist Clover Awards were:
- Plant Operations Painter N. Bibb
- Officer I. Mendoza
- Officer B. Bruffett
- Officer G. Cortina
- Officer A. Izmaylov
- Officer F. Naranjo
- Officer L. Patton
- Officer M. Phipps
- Officer S. Rossotti
- Officer J. Sahagun
- Officer L. Sanchez
- Officer E. Smith
- Officer Y. Xiong
- Officer T. Yang
- Officer J. Corona
As honorees were announced, staff and the incarcerated population loudly cheered, celebrating those who have impacted them.
“The last time I was recognized was in the third grade,” Plant Operations Painter Bibb said. “It felt really good to be recognized.”
The awards category also featured a Fallen Clover, honoring fallen staff who had been Clover-worthy in their time with the department and CCWF.
Warden Anissa De La Cruz spoke at the event, highlighting the pride she felt of the incarcerated population recognizing the institution’s staff and providing a voice to the population.
Retired Chief Deputy Warden Velda Dobson Davis worked alongside incarcerated leaders and the Community Resource Management Office to create and fund the award ceremony.
In attendance were Division of Adult Institutions (DAI) Director Gena Jones, Deputy Director Jennifer Benavidez, Associate Director Kathleen Ratliff, Retired Annuitant Kathleen Allison, and Emcee of the event, Deputy Director of the California Correctional Training Authority (CALCTRA), Michele Kane.
Submitted by Lt. Monique Williams. See more photos from the event below.
