Week in Review: March 27, 2026

March 27, 2026

In this March 27 week in review, DAPO supports children at childhood cancer event, CTF hosts a fundraiser for crime victims’ services, and SCC expands fire academy training for career pathways.

In Our Institutions

SQRC holds first sergeant promotion ceremony

San Quentin held its first promotional ceremony for 11 newly promoted correctional sergeants. Family and friends filled the In-Service Training Building for the event.

Warden Chance Andes recognized the milestone and the support behind it. Andes encouraged the new sergeants to train their teams and understand policies that protect staff. “You are the future,” he said.

He thanked families, noting their role in supporting staff through long hours and stress.

Chief Deputy Warden Eric Patao shared advice from his experience:

“Over 20 years and I’ve seen a lot. My best advice would be to do what’s right, make trustworthy decisions and reach out to your peers.

There are two things that I think about when making a decision. Is it safe to do and is it the right thing to do.”

Each sergeant received chevrons during a formal pinning ceremony. The event concluded with refreshments and a group photo. Congratulations to the March BCOA for sergeants.

Kings County Grand Jury observes rehabilitative programs at ASP

Group of people stand and listen to firefighter speaker

The Kings County Grand Jury toured Avenal State Prison (ASP) to evaluate rehabilitation programs. During the visit, members observed vocational and personal development efforts for incarcerated individuals.

The tour included the welding shop, furniture factory, skateboard program and auto body facility. Each program provides practical skills, structured training and opportunities for personal growth. The Grand Jury noted these efforts promote responsibility, discipline and employability.

Members also visited the facility’s fire house. There, they learned how the Fire Chief, Fire Captain and incarcerated individuals respond to emergencies, including vehicle crashes and fires. The program highlights teamwork, preparedness and critical response skills.

Overall, the visit underscored ASP’s commitment to rehabilitation and successful reintegration.

CTF hosts Hartnell and Gavilan college students for career tour

Many students and staff standing together inside CTF

The Correctional Training Facility (CTF) hosted students from Hartnell College and Gavilan College enrolled in Administration of Justice programs. The visit provided firsthand exposure to careers in corrections.

During the visit, students toured key areas of the institution and learned about custody operations, safety protocols and rehabilitative programming. Staff engaged with students to discuss career pathways within CDCR, including roles in custody and support services.

The tour connected classroom instruction with real-world application. As a result, students gained a clearer understanding of correctional professionals’ role in public safety and rehabilitation.

“This partnership is about giving students a real look into the profession and showing them the impact they can make through a career in corrections and public service,”

Correctional Lieutenant Wil Landrum

SVSP Students reach ISUDT milestone

Large group of incarcerated graduates throw their graduation caps in the air

ISUDT graduate shakes hands with staff member, other staff member stand in background

Students at Salinas Valley State Prison (SVSP) recently reached a significant milestone, as more than 20 participants successfully graduated from Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment (ISUDT) program Cognitive Behavioral Interventions.

Facility A hosted an appreciation and completion ceremony on March 17, 2026, bringing together graduates, fellow participants, staff, and family members to recognize the dedication and perseverance required to complete the program.

Special guests attended the ceremony, including SVSP Associate Warden Jovita Barchacky, who delivered remarks commending the graduates for their accomplishments. ISUDT counselors also addressed the group, highlighting the commitment of participants who overcame personal challenges to complete the program.

Several graduates shared personal reflections, expressing gratitude to their peers and staff for the encouragement and support that guided them throughout their journey.

SCC program turns training into fire service careers

Large group of people in fire uniform holding hoses for training exercise

Sierra Conservation Center (SCC) has hosted the Columbia College Fire Academy (CCFA) since 2005, supporting spring and fall academies. Each class includes 30 to 40 college students.

In 2018, SCC expanded the program to include incarcerated firefighters. Participants can complete state-certified Firefighter 1 and 2 training. They also complete Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) written and skills testing.

Since then, 26 SCC Fire Department incarcerated firefighters have completed the program. Many have gone on to successful careers within the fire service.

The program continues to provide training opportunities while supporting workforce development in fire service careers.

New chapter begins at SQRC Learning Center

San Quentin Rehabilitation Center (SQRC) executive staff held their first morning meeting in Building B’s staff suite, marking the opening of the new Learning Center. Coffee and refreshments were provided for staff in attendance.

Warden Chance Andes hosted a topping-out ceremony in front of Building D’s sallyport. As the flag was raised by attending staff, participants stood in tribute while Whitney Houston’s rendition of the “Star-Spangled Banner” played.

The event marked the completion of a two-year project and the end of a major structural phase. Business Services Associate Warden Orlando Ponce also conducted a Q&A for staff and program providers. “Do’s and Don’ts” were discussed and distributed to the incarcerated population through institutional tablets.

The opening signals a new chapter for SQRC and its ongoing rehabilitation efforts.

CTF hosts fundraiser supporting National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

staff members runs on baseball field for fundraising event

The Correctional Training Facility (CTF) brought staff and incarcerated individuals together on B Yard for a fundraiser supporting National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.

Organized by Freedom Through Liberation, the event raised funds for the Community Justice Center Victim Services nonprofit.

The fundraiser supports survivor guest speakers scheduled for upcoming events. Funds will help cover travel and meal expenses.

A kickball game between support teams and incarcerated participants from Facilities A and B served as the centerpiece. Participants included the Peer Support Specialist Program (PSSP) and Peer Literacy Mentor Program (PLMP).

The event provided a structured opportunity to support victim-centered services while reinforcing restorative practices.

The fundraiser concluded with a formal check presentation of $2,177 to the nonprofit.

“Providing structured opportunities for accountability while supporting victim services remains an important part of these efforts,”

Isela Fletes, Correctional Counselor III

Staff Spotlight

3 Questions with Stephanie Neumann, Region II, Mental Health Administrator

Across Region II, Stephanie Neumann supports mental health teams to improve the quality of mental health care for incarcerated persons while providing support to institutions’ mental health leadership.

Woman smiling with dark hair standing in front of wall of greenery

What motivates your work?
I am motivated by the desire to help improve the quality of mental health services offered to the incarcerated population region wide. Supporting the institutions so that they can exceed community standards for care, for an underserved population, is encouraging. The day-to-day challenges faced in the correctional healthcare system require teamwork and collaboration which leads to innovative solutions for the mental health treatment provided to a very complex population. I am inspired by brainstorming complex patient care with the whole team and finding solutions that promote patient wellness.

What does your role look like day to day?
My work centers on overseeing all aspects of the Mental Health Services Delivery System in Region II, which provides mental health treatment to incarcerated persons across multiple institutions. I collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during case conferences to strengthen treatment planning and identify the right interventions. I conduct site visits and audits, followed by reports that help leadership focus on quality improvement. In addition, I review performance metrics with institutions to identify trends and ensure patients receive timely, appropriate care.

What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of seeing institutions improve patient care through effective treatment interventions supported by the regional team. My team and I are able to support all of the institutions in Region II by providing consultation, supervision, training, and guidance to create a successful mental health program. For example, we have provided clinical trainings to over 350 staff members who provide patient care in the Region II institutions.

Division of Adult Parole Operations

6 DAPO staff stand in front of sign for Childhood Cancer Foundation with Easter themed props

DAPO supports childhood cancer Easter extravaganza

The Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) joined the Childhood Cancer Foundation Easter Extravaganza, supporting children with cancer and their families. The event featured games, prizes and activities designed to create an uplifting and memorable experience.

This effort was proudly supported by agents from the Tri-City Parole District, whose participation exemplified DAPO’s commitment to community engagement. Those in attendance included Parole Administrator Robert Wagner, Parole Agent III (A) Martin Hardy, Parole Agent III (A) Xavio Tong, Parole Agent I Rocio Cobian, Parole Agent I Lilia Sanchez, and Parole Agent I Rosalina Santillan.

Throughout the event, agents engaged with families and assisted with activities. They led games and helped create a welcoming, positive environment.

Their involvement reflects a genuine commitment to service, compassion and community connection beyond public safety duties. Events like this highlight DAPO’s dedication to outreach and support for vulnerable populations. The department continues fostering trust, building partnerships and promoting hope, resilience and well-being within the community.

Life‑saving era: CDCR expands naloxone access

A naloxone dispenser in a CDCR prison with a quote from the head of nursing.

To decrease overdose deaths in California prisons, CDCR has expanded unprecedented access to naloxone. Commonly known by its brand name, Narcan, the life-saving medication rapidly reverses opioid overdoses.

Amid a shifting national overdose landscape driven by synthetic opioids, CDCR has implemented a systemwide harm-reduction framework prioritizing rapid overdose response, broad naloxone access, and the Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment (ISUDT) Program’s Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). Data shows naloxone is a critical life-saving intervention bridging individuals from overdose crisis to treatment engagement and recovery support.

Read the FULL STORY ON INSIDE CDCR

Observances

Women’s History Month

CCHCS staff reflect on mentorship during Women’s History Month

Jane Moses holds up printed cut out photo of her mentor

During Women’s History Month, CCHCS staff are reflecting on the women who helped shape their careers, highlighting how mentorship from influential women helped them step into leadership, speak up and grow in their roles. Those moments started with a mentor.

That influence still shows up in their day-to-day work.

Jane Moses, associate director of the Compliance and Reporting Unit (CRU), has been with CCHCS for 14 years. She reflects on the lasting influence of her mentor, Cathy Jefferson, who has worked for the department for 18 years in various roles across CCHCS and CDCR. Jefferson’s high expectations and steady guidance pushed Moses beyond her comfort zone and helped shape her professional growth. Jefferson’s advice continues to resonate: “Never stop learning — every experience, good or bad, is an opportunity to grow.”

Read the full story on inside cdcr

Governor Newsom proclaims Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

Governor Gavin Newsom issued a proclamation declaring March 2026 as “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

Graphic banner with visual icons for developmental disabilities awareness month

PROCLAMATION

California is proud to join states around the country, raising awareness about the many ways in which people with intellectual and developmental disabilities contribute to strong, diverse communities across our state.

This March, we shine a light on the work underway to drive the inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and reaffirm our collective commitment to breaking down the barriers they face in connecting to the communities where they live…

REAd the FULL proclamation

Upward Mobility

Ernesto Bustamante was assigned as acting Warden at Calipatria State Prison (CAL)

Recruitment

Female staff member speaks virtually on computer creen

Virtual sessions expand CCHCS recruitment reach

CCHCS has expanded recruitment efforts with virtual information sessions. The sessions connect health care professionals to career opportunities beyond geographic limits. They also guide candidates through setting up a CalCareers account and explain what it’s like to work in correctional health care.

Attendees can join from any location, ask questions in real time and connect with department leaders. At the same time, recruiters can share resources instantly and engage large groups more efficiently.

The sessions focus on high-need roles, including registered nurses, psychologists and licensed vocational nurses. The format also reaches candidates nationwide, including rural and out-of-state applicants.

Results show strong engagement. Attendance reached 44 percent of registrants in 2025, with similar trends continuing into early 2026.

As one attendee noted, the sessions revealed a wide range of opportunities and strong support for professional development.

Students get inside look at CDCR through COP tours

Students and staff stand in front of RJD entry

The College Outreach Program (COP) is bringing students beyond the classroom and inside CDCR institutions. Recruitment teams recently hosted tours for students from Chabot College, San Diego State University and the University of the Pacific.

Students visited San Quentin Rehabilitation Center (SQRC), Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD) and Folsom State Prison (FSP). Along the way, they participated in candid Q&A sessions with custody and non-custody staff, gaining insight into daily operations and career pathways.

Lt. Adam Garvey, RJD public information officer and recruitment lead, said the program highlights transparency and professional growth. “These tours allow us to identify future leaders and show them where they fit into the CDCR mission,” he said.

At FSP, Sgt. Kenny Meadows led what is expected to be his final tour before retirement. “This career is about the people you serve with and the lives you impact,” Meadows said.

The program continues to build interest in careers rooted in public safety and rehabilitation.

In the Media

Two men in front of large CDCR backdrop lock hands together

CDCR Job Fair | FOX40 News

Over 30 public safety agencies from across California will be represented at this exciting event such as CDCR, Sac Sheriffs, CAL FIRE, SF Sheriff’s Office, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife.