2026 ACA 156th Congress of Correction Pittsburgh_Program Book

FRIDAY, JULY 31

2–3:30 P.M.

Moderator: Thomas Faust , Director, District of Columbia Department of Corrections, Washington, D.C. Speakers: Joan Gillece , Director for Center for Innovation in Behavioral Health Policy and Practice, National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD), Alexandria, Virginia; Michelle Wilson , Deputy Director of Administration, D.C. Department of Corrections, Washington, D.C.; Charryse Wright , Organizational Wellness Consultant, Just Wright Community Solutions, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Expanded Programming Reach, Improved Staff Experiences: Peer–Staff Co-Facilitation in Corrections Room 315 Primary Community of Focus: Adult Corrections Overview: This session examines what happens when correctional programming shifts from limited, program-specific use of peers to a structured model where peers and staff co-facilitate across programming and program assignment. We present on the operational, cultural and staff-level changes that emerge as peers are more fully integrated into programmatic operations and delivery. We discuss practical strategies for integrating peers alongside staff in correctional settings. Using implementation of the 5-Key Model for Reentry and Well-Being Development™ as a case example, we examine how peers and staff co-facilitate across multiple programs within a coordinated system of assessment, monitoring, and program delivery, rather than as a single initiative. Preliminary findings suggest this shift contributed to increased program engagement, improved group dynamics and more effective staff–resident interactions day-to-day in facilities. Facilities also observed broader impacts, including reductions in behavioral incidents and shifts in staff workload and overall positive job experiences reported by staff. Participants will learn key components of the implementation approach, including how peers were selected and trained, how co-facilitation roles were structured across assessment and programs,

Corrections Connections: The Engine Behind Strategic Communications Room 318 Primary Community of Focus: Strategic Communications Overview: This workshop explains how the Florida Department of Corrections built a high‑output communications team to improve accuracy, transparency and public understanding. Presenters will outline why communications capacity was expanded, how roles were defined, how staff were selected and trained and how modern workflows increased quality and volume. The session will offer practical strategies for building efficient systems, strengthening agency credibility and improving storytelling across large correctional environments. Moderator: Jordan Kirkland , Director of Communications, Florida Department of Corrections, Tallahassee, Florida Speakers: Indira Linval , Strategic Communications Manager, Florida Department of Corrections, Tallahassee, Florida; Paul Walker , Deputy Communications Director, Florida Department of Corrections, Tallahassee, Florida D.C. Jail: Before the Badge Gets Heavy Room 319 Primary Community of Focus: Jails Overview: As correctional environments shift, staff are entering systems marked by increased acuity, violence and complexity. This session explores how the District of Columbia Department of Corrections is responding proactively, before burnout, injury and disconnection take hold. Through the Violence Prevention Response Program (VPRP), we outline a staged approach that includes extensive TAMAR training, staff development for new hires and supervisors, and the planned implementation of peer support for residents and officers. This session centers on early intervention, equipping staff to carry the weight of the badge with clarity, support and sustainability.

WORKSHOPS

Friday, July 31 ▼ 2–4:30 p.m.

ACA 156 th Congress of Correction | Pittsburgh — 117