The Correctional Training Facility (CTF) at Soledad recognized 24 newly promoted employees during a June 26 promotional ceremony. Held at the CTF Memorial Garden, the ceremony celebrated the dedication, professionalism, and accomplishments of employees representing custody, health care, and administrative classifications. The ceremony also recognized the important role their families, friends and colleagues have played in supporting their careers.
The ceremony opened with the CTF Honor Guard conducting the Raising of the Colors, followed by a stirring rendition of the National Anthem performed by CTF Office Technician Cynthia Gallardo and her sister, Valerie Parker.
CTF Pastor B.D. Min then delivered the invocation before acting Warden Cyndee Rojas welcomed attendees and reflected on the significance of the occasion.
Celebrating achievements
Throughout the ceremony, each promoted staff member was individually recognized and presented with a certificate of promotion.
Newly promoted custody staff also received their promotional rank insignia pins. Meanwhile, newly promoted non-custody and health care staff were presented with CDCR lapel pins commemorating their promotions.
One of the ceremony’s most meaningful moments came when family members, friends, and colleagues were invited to participate in the pinning of the newly promoted custody staff’s rank insignia.
“Their participation served as a reminder that behind every promotion is a strong support system that shares in the sacrifices and successes achieved throughout a career in public service.” said acting Warden C. Rojas.
Rojas then administered the custody oath to the newly promoted custody supervisors and spoke about the responsibility accompanying promotions.
“Today’s ceremony is not only about recognizing your professional achievements, but also about honoring the families, friends, and colleagues who have supported you throughout your journey. A promotion reflects years of dedication, sacrifice, and commitment, both on and off the job,” Rojas said. “As you move forward in your careers, remember your success is shared with those who stood beside you. Continue to lead with integrity, professionalism, and appreciation for the support that helped you get here.”
Leaders inspire others
Acting Chief Deputy Warden Ramon Diaz ended the ceremony by recognizing the dedication required to earn a promotion. He also encouraged employees to continue striving for excellence.
“Today’s ceremony recognizes years of hard work, perseverance, and commitment. Each promotion represents an investment in the future of this institution. Continue to lead with humility, support one another, and remember, great leaders are defined not only by their accomplishments, but by the people they inspire.”
Following the ceremony, the promoted staff and their invited guests attended a reception. Food and beverages were offered in celebration of this important career milestone.
The event was made possible through the efforts of the CTF Employee Action Committee. The group’s members coordinated the reception and provided funding for the food, beverages, decorations and commemorative photo backdrop. Their continued support helped create a memorable experience for the promoted staff and their families.
CTF-Soledad congratulates all 24 employees recognized during this year’s promotional ceremony and thanks them for their continued dedication to CDCR.
Their commitment to public service, leadership, and professionalism strengthens the institution and reflects the department’s mission of providing safety, rehabilitation and excellence in correctional operations.
Non-custody staff promotions
Melissa Gonzalez, Staff Services Manager I
Jasmine Pulido, Procurement & Services Officer II
Albert Graham, Supervisor of Vocational Instruction
Miguel Gallardo. Supervisor of Building Trades, CF
Daisy Rubalcaba, Assistant Correctional Food Manager
Art Vizcarra, Correctional Case Records Manager
Christopher Angelozzi, Supervising Correctional Cook
Angel Cobos, Industrial Supervisor, PI
Juana S. Quian, Public Health Nurse I
Green H. Moonga, Supervising Registered Nurse III
Custody staff promotions
Ana Bonilla, Correctional Counselor II (Sup)
Derek Domingo, Fire Captain, CL
Alfred Zavala, Correctional Sergeant
Carlos Alejo, Correctional Sergeant
Eloy Vasquez, Correctional Sergeant
Haydee Bonilla, Correctional Sergeant
Jose Martinez, Correctional Sergeant
Justin Rea, Correctional Sergeant
Sergio Alvarez, Correctional Sergeant
Edgar Gomez, Correctional Lieutenant
Jair Vallejo, Correctional Lieutenant
Lucio Garcia, Correctional Lieutenant
Zachary Brown, Correctional Lieutenant
Seth Handley, Associate Warden
Submitted by Lt. W. Landrum
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.