Awards and Appreciation, Beyond the Badge

Centinela hosts weeklong staff appreciation

May 13, 2026

Centinela State Prison held weeklong staff appreciation events featuring various themes each day.

Administrators and managers from all areas cooked and provided meals for staff, thanking them for their hard work. California Correctional Peace Officers Association and California Correctional Supervisors Organization were also active participants and contributors in the festivities.

Leaders at Centinela State Prison group photo. — From left are Correctional Food Manager II R. Salcido, Assistant Food Manager J. Cruz, Warden A. Green, Correctional Business Manager T. Cardenaz, Capt. T. Soriano, IPO A. Hernandez. Chief Psychologist Y. Servin and CEO M. Nasir.

Monday, May 4, featured chicken and ribs while the day boasted a Star Wars theme.

Tuesday’s menu was tacos and the theme was Cinco de Mayo.

Wednesday staff participated in a chili cookoff and the theme was Western.

Thursday’s menu was hamburgers and hotdogs. The theme was Jersey Day with staff wearing their favorite sports team jerseys.

Friday was loaded pulled pork baked potatoes while the theme was Twin Day, where staff paired up to be twins for the day.

People get food during the staff appreciation day at Centinela State Prison. — *Behind the table, from left, are Associate Warden R. Zavala, Correctional Counselor III L. Santana.*

Administrators and managers participated on all shifts and on Friday to close off the event they volunteered in the dunk tank, bringing lots of joy and laughs.

Three people at Centinela State Prison staff appreciation event. — *Correctional Supervising Cook J. Lovell receives his prizes after winning the chili cook-off.*

Staff said the food and weeklong event made it memorable. One staff member said during his 32 years of service, he had never seen an appreciation like this. The event recognized staff for their hard work while also fostering team building.

Photos and story by Lt. M. Ramos