2026 ACA Winter Conference Long Beach CA_Program Book

WORKSHOPS

challenges that correctional facilities face during large-scale weather emergencies, including staff safety, offender care, facility infrastructure, logistics, continuity of operations and the monitoring and management of probation and parole offenders. The session will highlight reporting methods used to capture impacts, assess needs and inform decision-making at both facility and state levels. Speakers: LaDonna Browning , Region Director, North Carolina Department of Adult Corrections, Valdese, North Carolina; Bret Bullis , Warden, North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, Spruce Pine, North Carolina; Stacie Crabtree , Operations Specialist, North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, Raleigh, North Carolina; Latasha White , Assistant Judicial Division Director, North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, Asheville, North Carolina Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges: Language Access and Messages of Hope in Corrections Room 102 A TRACK: Programming & Communication Overview: Many correctional systems are facing challenges in addressing language barriers that prevent meaningful engagement, family connection and reentry readiness. Combining a compliance framework (language access) with a human-centered communications campaign (Messages of Hope & Second Chances) demonstrates how policy and strategic communication can reinforce one another. This all supports rehabilitation, equity and second chances, which are all key themes of ACA values.

THURSDAY, FEB. 5

10–11:30 A.M.

Motivation in Action: Recognizing Opportunities, Managing Attitudes and Avoiding Complacency in Correctional Leadership Room 101 B TRACK: Operations Overview: This presentation focuses on the principles of leadership and the concept that correctional officials in leadership roles must be chief motivators. Topics covered include opportunities to motivate others, improving satisfaction in the workplace, the importance of attitude and avoiding complacency. The key is to recognize opportunities and capitalize on them, inspiring others to reach their full potential and operate with an attitude of perpetual optimism. Concepts of integrity, character, teamwork, servant leadership and selfless service are also discussed. Speakers: John Palmer , Regional Director of Institutions, Florida Department of Corrections, Lake Butler, Florida; Brian Riedl , Regional Director of Institutions, Florida Department of Corrections, Clermont, Florida Hurricane Helene and NCDAC Challenges, Response and Recovery Room 102 B TRACK: Emergency Preparedness Overview: This workshop will provide a comprehensive review of the effects of Hurricane Helene on the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, with a focus on response, recovery and lessons learned. Participants will gain insight into the unique

WORKSHOPS Thursday, Feb. 5 ▼ 10–11:30 a.m.

70 — ACA 2026 Winter Conference | Long Beach, CA