Awards and Appreciation, Beyond the Badge

CIM hosts 2026 staff recognition event

Staff pick up food at CIM.

California Institution for Men (CIM) in Chino acknowledged Public Service Recognition Week by hosting its annual staff appreciation event. This May 8 celebration thanked staff for the commitment and professionalism they display each day.

The CIM administration team worked throughout the day and night. Those working first watch were given a festive treat in the form of tamales. The CIM executive team was on hand walking the beat and personally thanking the team for keeping the public safe during the midnight hours.

CIM warden walks with staff at night.

Warden Mejia and the CIM Executive Team encouraged everyone on hand to take a moment to thank one another and acknowledge the dedication and spirit staff exhibits throughout the year.

Held in front of the Administration Building’s lounge area, this year’s event created a welcoming atmosphere for all staff.

Warden shakes hands with staff at CIM.

Second and third watch staff were provided with a taco plate and to satisfy their thirst on a warm southern California day they were given iced aguas frescas. Staff enjoyed lawn games, music and a photo booth.

“The CIM executive team enjoyed personally serving staff hot plates of delicious food,” organizers said.

Submitted by Lt. O. Ramirez

In photos: CIM salutes staff


Follow CDCR on YouTubeFacebookX (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.

See more awards and appreciation stories.

Related content

SCC Chief Deputy Warden presents Officer of Year Award to Masterson for actions taken late last year to assist a car crash victim.

SCC Officer Masterson named Angels‑Murphys Officer of Year

Sierra Conservation Center (SCC) Correctional Officer Masterson was named the Angels-Murphys Rotary Club of California Officer of the Year. The…

Heather Duarte, the Community Resources Manager (CRM) at Calipatria State Prison, earned a CIF award for coaching a local swimming team.

CRM Heather Duarte earns CIF coaching honor

Calipatria State Prison Community Resources Manager (CRM) Heather Duarte has devoted over three decades to coaching, mentoring, and inspiring student-athletes.…

LAC acting fire captain Diaz was honored after saving a child's life while attending his daughter's cheerleading event.

LAC acting Fire Captain Diaz honored for saving child’s life

California State Prison-Los Angeles County (LAC) acting Fire Captain Jose Diaz was honored during a recent ceremony after saving a…

kern Valley State Prison leadership at the Nurses Week 2026 celebration. Shown in the photo are the Warden, CEO, Associate Warden of Health Care Access, the Health Care Access captain, Director of Nursing, and Chief Nurse Executive.

Kern Valley State Prison celebrates Nurses Week 2026

Kern Valley State Prison (KVSP) in Delano recently celebrated Nurses Week 2026 with food, fun and entertainment. According to organizers,…

Two maintenance mechanics enjoy the lunch during National Skilled Trades Day 2026.

Kern Valley State Prison celebrates Skilled Trades Day

Kern Valley State Prison staff celebrated National Skilled Trades Day, recognizing all staff who keep Plant Operations going. The correctional…

A group of professionals, including two CDCR agents, were recognized at the annual law enforcement awards ceremony.

CDCR special agents recognized at Law Enforcement Awards ceremony

After taking part in a major multi-agency investigation, two special agents in CDCR’s Office of Correctional Safety, Special Service Unit…