2026 ACA 156th Congress of Correction Pittsburgh_Program Book

SECRETARY

Asst. Deputy Secretary Gartman began her career as a Correctional Department Officer in 1993. She is a 33-year veteran of the Florida Department of Institutions with a diverse background in programs, operations, and leadership. She supervises the four Institutions Regional Directors overseeing 49 state prisons and 7 content centers, supporting 100% of the 100% of institutional corrections within the Office of Institutions. She is responsible for providing appropriate support, supervision, and direction to over 18,000 staff and 88,000 inmates. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology from Florida State University and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Florida A&M University.

As the Director of the Office of Programs and Re-Entry (OPR), she is responsible for the oversight of the Department’s Bureau of Education, Workplace Development, Re-Entry and Transition and Distance Abiding. As a correctional officer, Ms. Frizzell has advanced through the ranks—from Classification Officer to Warden at three institutions—before being promoted to Director of OPR in 2024. She is an active member of ACA and many professional organizations. Ms. Frizzell is responsible for oversight and oversight from the right resources in place to support and promote successful re entry and rehabilitation.

Deputy Secretary Comerford began his career as a Correctional Officer in 1986 and has dedicated over 39 years to public service with FDC. He has served as an assistant to the Florida Department of Corrections since 1986. He serves as the senior leadership role, including Assistant Deputy Secretary of Institutions. He overses the operational oversight of one of the nation’s largest correctional systems. His high-profile includes a strong track record from the University of Florida and is a graduate of FDC’s Executive Leadership Seminar and Chief Executive Seminar. His expertise includes institutional operations, investigation, and emergency preparedness and response.

FLORIDA’S POPULATION MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES: A PROGRAMMATIC APPROACH TO OPTIMIZING EXISTING FACILITIES FOR DIVERSE INMATE NEEDS

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