2025 NCDAC Employee Recognition Awards

2025 NCDAC Employee Recognition Award Recipients

Above and Beyond

Kenneth Diggs, Warden, Albermarle Correctional Institution
Warden Kenneth Diggs exemplifies compassion, integrity, and humanity in leadership. At Albemarle Correctional Institution, he oversees all aspects of operations with professionalism and care, but it was his extraordinary compassion during the illness and passing of long-time Administrative Associate Tanya Turner that revealed the depth of his character. When Tanya, who had no immediate family, was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, Kenneth became her source of comfort and support, visiting her daily in the hospital, sitting by her bedside during Thanksgiving, and personally driving her to radiation treatments and follow-up appointments. His unwavering presence ensured that she was never alone during her most difficult moments. His empathy also inspired the entire facility to rally around Tanya, with staff volunteering their time to provide meals, companionship, and emotional support. Even in her final days, Kenneth remained by her side, organizing support and ensuring she was surrounded by care and dignity. His actions fostered a profound sense of unity and compassion among his team.

Office of State Development and Training Group (Western Region), Valdese
The Western Training Region OSDT Team -- Elizabeth Tate, Cody Reid, Neal Moody, Nikki Peters, Robin Wellman, Jr., Jane Benfield, Ashley Harrington, Gerrod Brown, Steven Eudy, Robert White, Garrett Robinson, Michael Williams, Christopher Shane Ferrell, and Christopher Brackett -- demonstrated extraordinary dedication, resilience, and compassion in the wake of Hurricane Helene, which struck western North Carolina on Sept. 27, 2024. Despite facing personal hardships such as damaged homes, loss of power and water, and impassable roads, the team’s commitment to service remained consistent and unwavering. Once communication was restored, they were eager to return to duty to ensure the continuation of critical training operations for the department. Beyond resuming Basic and In-Service training at the Valdese site, the team transformed the facility into a shelter and relief hub, providing lodging, supplies, meals, and support to NCDAC staff and their families affected by the storm. Their quick coordination and compassion offered much-needed stability during a crisis, exemplifying teamwork, perseverance, and selfless service. 

Beacon of Hope

Rebecca Jonas, Program Director, Catawba Correctional Center
Program Director Rebecca Jonas played a pivotal role in launching the Furniture Academy at Catawba Correctional Center, an innovative partnership with Catawba Valley Community College that provides offenders with hands-on training in high-end furniture production. The program, which has established 35 partnerships with furniture companies committed to being second-chance employers, equips participants with valuable technical and workplace skills while connecting them directly with local employers eager to hire skilled graduates. With the first cohort set to complete their 13-month program in December, this initiative represents a powerful model of rehabilitation and reentry. Rebecca’s visionary leadership has helped create impactful opportunities and change for offenders.

Tiesta Moore, Programs Supervisor, Anson Correctional Institution
Correctional Programs Supervisor Tiesta Moore has been instrumental in expanding the Anson Cares program, which produces handmade goods for community organizations and shelters. The program’s growth has become so significant, it required relocation to a larger space, offering participants a redemptive and healing experience. In addition, Tiesta supervises the Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous programs, providing critical support and guidance to offenders in recovery as they develop coping strategies for lasting success and rehabilitation. Her dedication goes beyond her regular duties, as she adjusts her schedule to ensure consistent mentorship. Through her leadership, Tiesta fosters accountability, hope, and community service, making her a true model of rehabilitation with her compassionate and innovative approach.

Bravery in Service

Alaina Malcolm, Probation and Parole Officer, Community Supervision District 16
Probation and Parole Officer Alaina Malcolm displayed extraordinary courage and leadership during a life-threatening multi-vehicle collision on June 28, 2024, at Lumbee Homecoming. While assisting the Pembroke Police Department, Alaina quickly took control of the chaotic accident scene, coordinated with first responders to stabilize multiple injured individuals, including a child trapped in a severely damaged vehicle. Demonstrating remarkable bravery, she entered the wreckage, shielded a victim with a white sheet, and personally extricated the child from the cramped back seat to prevent further injury. Afterward, she stayed with two uninjured minors, providing comfort until their guardians arrived. Her decisive crisis management, calm leadership, and compassion not only saved lives but also inspired colleagues to improve emergency response readiness. Alaina’s heroism embodied the highest ideals of NCDAC.

Community Engagement 

Graham Atkinson, Commissioner, Post Release Supervision and Parole Commission
Commissioner Graham Atkinson has provided extraordinary, decades-long dedication to Surry County through his leadership of the “Give a Kid a Christmas” foundation. Since founding the program in 1993 as a D.A.R.E. officer, Graham has grown it from helping a single child to providing nearly 600 children in 2024 with approximately $200 worth of gifts, clothing, and food apiece. The foundation’s mission ensures every child has food during the Christmas school break, warm winter clothing, and at least one special gift, bringing joy to families in need. For over 30 years, Graham has personally led all aspects of the annual effort, from organizing volunteers and coordinating donations to packing more than 425 70-pound food boxes. His leadership has strengthened community partnerships and inspired countless volunteers. Following Hurricane Helene, he made multiple trips, sometimes even using his own personal vehicle, to deliver critical supplies and ensure no donation was left behind.

Pender Correctional Institution Day Treatment Program
The Pender Correctional Institution Day Treatment Program (DTP) -- Gail Georgescu, Jonathan Marmorstein, Ethel L. McIntyre, Matthew Klerx, Elizabeth Hawes, Kelli Buxton, Catherine Piermattei, Melanie Nelson, and Marie Lovero -- displays exceptional dedication to rehabilitating cognitively and physically challenged offenders while strengthening community connections. Established in 1993, DTP is the only program of its kind in NCDAC, combining therapeutic education, hands-on work, and community service through its three core areas: 
Horticulture and Landscape Construction, Sewing and Creative Design, and Adult Basic Education. In 2025, participants donated over 3,700 pounds of fresh produce to local food banks and crafted quilts and pet supplies for animal protection organizations, directly benefiting the community while fostering purpose and empathy among offenders. Each participant maintains a personal garden or project, promoting accountability and ownership, while Cape Fear Community College supports literacy and communication development in a supportive environment. With a history of excellence, including the American Correctional Association’s “Exemplary Offender Program Award,” the DTP exemplifies meaningful community engagement through transformative rehabilitation.

Excellence in Leadership

Dwayne Hull, Warden, Randolph Correctional Institution
Under the leadership of Dwayne Hull, Randolph Correctional Institution has achieved outstanding success in every audit over the past year, with the security audit team specifically praising the turnaround from 33 audit exceptions down to just 13 this year, surpassing neighboring institutions’ ACA scores, and earning the region’s best medical audit. Additionally, the facility recorded the highest educational improvement in the region, reflecting the compassionate and innovative culture Dwayne has cultivated. He fosters unity and morale by actively engaging staff through meals, dress-down days, training opportunities, and daily rounds, while supporting recognition programs and personally connecting with staff during hardships. As a general and firearms instructor, he strengthens staff skills and empowers his management team by listening, encouraging innovation, and promoting safety. Through his dedication, compassion, and hands-on leadership, Dwayne has created a workplace culture of accountability, pride, and excellence.

Protection and Security

Sharon Williams, Correction Officer, Sanford Correctional Center
Lead Correction Officer Sharon Williams exemplifies professionalism, vigilance, and dedication to safety within the Department of Adult Correction. With 17 years of service, including 12 years as a CDL transport officer, she has maintained a clean safety record free of accidents, violations, or disciplinary actions. Her commitment to security and quick decision making are best demonstrated through her swift response to a medical emergency, where she provided immediate aid to an offender suffering a heart attack and ensured life-saving care was delivered without compromising safety. In another instance, her attentiveness prevented a large quantity of contraband from entering the facility, directly protecting staff and offenders. Through reliability, composure, and unwavering dedication, Sharon has proven herself an outstanding professional.

Darrick Philemon, Captain, Anson Correctional Institution
Darrick Philemon serves as the Special Operations and Field Intelligence Officer Captain at Anson Correctional Institution, the largest female housing facility in North Carolina with approximately 1,300 offenders, where he provides exceptional leadership, vigilance, and dedication to safety and security. He oversees shift operations, supervises lieutenants and custody staff, and ensures full compliance with departmental security policies and emergency procedures. Darrick develops and refines emergency response plans, post orders, and operational protocols to maintain a high state of readiness across the facility. In addition to his leadership at Anson CI, he serves as a key member of the South-Central Region Prison Emergency Response Team (PERT), where his expertise in anti-gang and anti-drug strategies enhances safety across multiple institutions. His professionalism, adaptability, and proactive approach to staff development and security operations exemplify the department’s mission.

Rising Star

Laura Hartley, Probation and Parole Officer, Community Supervision District 30
Since joining the department in June 2024, Probation and Parole Officer Laura Hartley has quickly distinguished herself as dedicated and proactive. Despite her short tenure, she is one of only two officers currently serving in the Haywood County Adult Accountability & Recovery Court. She volunteered to take on this role when no one else did. In this position, she works closely with offenders, treatment providers, and court officials to promote recovery and accountability. Her professionalism, integrity, and willingness to take on challenging responsibilities have earned praise from judges, court staff, and colleagues.

Kelly Killough Speas, Healthcare Recruiter, Central Human Resources
Since joining NCDAC in 2024, Kelly Killough Speas has led major improvements in statewide healthcare recruitment through innovation and leadership. She launched the Temporary Solutions Nursing Initiative in January 2025, introducing a Smartsheet system that streamlined sourcing and screening. This resulted in 144 hires (93 still active) and nearly $3 million in savings by reducing reliance on travel nurses. In addition to managing multiple specialized healthcare postings, Kelly expanded regional hiring events from two to eight, sourced over 4,000 candidates, and engaged with over 300 students and alumni. Her data-driven strategies, collaboration with partners, and marketing efforts for nursing, dental, and physician recruitment have made her a standout employee.

Team Impact

Nursing Education Team (Nurse Consultants, Educators), Comprehensive Health Services, Raleigh
The NCDAC Comprehensive Health Services Nursing Education Team – Lucille Rivas, James Menke, Karla DeHaven, Christina Fox, Lisa Mathes, Deborah Grippaldi, Vera Jane DeVera, and Valerie Trexler-- displayed exceptional contributions to staff development, patient care, and offender rehabilitation. Since January 2024, this dedicated team has developed and implemented 10 new continuing nursing education programs, including specialized training like chest tube and ACLS instruction at Central Prison, Brixadi injection care at NCCIW, and the expansion of the Dremel Foot Care program to the Western Region. They also launched the 2-day HERO for Nurses program to enhance electronic health record documentation and expanded the Offender Care Assistant and Offender Bystander CPR programs, which directly contributed to an offender saving a life during a cardiac emergency. Providing weekly onboarding using Microsoft Teams, the team supports uninterrupted learning for over 550 staff annually and offers training to custody personnel in medication administration, Narcan use, and phone triage. Their collaboration, adaptability, and commitment create a supportive learning environment that boosts staff competency, retention, and rehabilitation efforts.

Community Supervision Internship Curriculum Team
The Community Supervision Internship Curriculum Team -- Nicole Patterson, Joshua Mounce, Juanita Crandall, Kelly Harding, John Hegger, Nicole Adjare Sandani, Michael Eisch, Crystal Bunch, Michelle Isenhour, LaTanga Lynch, and Felicia Eppshas -- standardized and enhanced the Probation and Parole Internship Program across all judicial divisions. While previously inconsistent with varying requirements and limited structure, this team collaborated with coordinators, mentors, human resources staff, and field training officers to create a comprehensive program featuring a detailed Intern Guidebook, structured evaluations, coordinator checklists, final projects, and intern partnerships with PPO recruiters. Originally presented at the January 2025 Judicial District Managers’ Training Institute, the revised program launched last spring and then was fully rolled out last summer. This teams’ efforts have greatly improved intern mentorship and professional development, doubling the PPO intern-to-hire rate from 12% to 26%, further strengthening the pipeline of prepared and engaged officers.

Workplace Improvement

Kevin Rich, Deputy Budget Director
Deputy Budget Director Kevin Rich is a proven leader whose expertise and professionalism have greatly strengthened the department’s financial operations. With nine years of state service, he has provided critical leadership in planning, managing, and analyzing the department’s budgets while delivering exceptional customer service to staff and partners. Following the implementation of the new North Carolina Financial System, Kevin played a key role in ensuring a smooth transition by refining and expanding the accounting platforms he originally developed. This effort enhanced the accuracy, consistency, and efficiency of the new system across the agency. As graduate of the Correctional Leadership Development Program, he continues to utilize lessons learned to improve processes, teach budget classes, and share knowledge that fosters collaboration and operational excellence.

Tymeka Dawson, Lieutenant, Maury Correctional Institution 
Tymeka Dawson serves as the Support Services Lieutenant at Maury Correctional Institution, where her leadership and initiative have made a significant impact on both staff morale and operational success. As the facility’s ALL IN Ambassador for the past year, she has collaborated with leadership to boost morale, strengthen recruitment and retention, and lead monthly committee meetings that recognize employees, organize fundraisers, and support community initiatives like local school supply drives. Through her active involvement in recruitment events, job fairs, and outreach, Tymeka helped reduce Correctional Officer III vacancies from around 60 to just 14. In addition, she has long served as the facility’s State Employees Combined Campaign captain, demonstrating her deep commitment to service and community engagement.

Correctional Officer of the Year

Michael George, Richmond Correctional Institution
Officer Michael George has shown exceptional service, dedication, and selfless heroism. On July 29, 2025, while transporting two minimum custody offenders to Scotland Correctional Institution, Michael spotted an overturned vehicle emitting smoke. Acting with extraordinary courage and quick thinking, he helped two women safely exit the vehicle, preventing further injury, and stayed on scene alongside the offenders until emergency personnel arrived. This heroic act exemplifies going above and beyond the call of duty and reflects the highest ideals of public service. Beyond this incident, Michael has demonstrated consistent professionalism throughout his 17-year career, including his role on the special projects team in 2024, where he led operational improvements, facility beautification efforts, and various initiatives to enhance safety and staff morale.

James Phillips, Mountain View Correctional Institution - Honorable Mention
Officer James Phillips has shown outstanding dedication, versatility, and service to both the department and his community. Since starting at Mountain View Correctional Institution in 2010, he has worked across all facility areas, including SMHU, transportation, operations, and currently the warehouse, where he also covers laundry duties as needed. As an active member of the Prison Emergency Response Team, James has shown leadership and courage during critical incidents, notably helping identify and apprehend an escaped offender in Rutherford County. Beyond his professional role, he has dedicated over 13 years to coaching youth football and mentoring young people in his community. Following Hurricane Helene, James tirelessly supported recovery efforts, from clearing debris to assisting staff with flood-damaged belongings and stepping up during staff shortages by reporting without complaint to Craggy Correctional Center when Mountain View was inoperable. Additionally, he volunteered at Mountain View and Avery-Mitchell’s Halloween events, helping bring joy to local children despite challenging circumstances. 

Probation Officer of the Year

Kathleen “KiKi” Hampton, District 3 (Carteret County)
Probation and Parole Officer Kathleen “KiKi” Hampton displays exceptional professionalism, dedication, and compassion toward both staff and offenders. Since joining the department in April 2010, she has consistently gone above and beyond, mentoring new staff, supporting coworkers through personal challenges, and providing guidance whenever needed. In Carteret County, she launched innovative programs such as “Probationer of the Month” and the “Unlock Your Goals” locker, encouraging offenders to set and achieve personal goals while fostering accountability and motivation. Serving as the sex offender officer, she makes herself available after hours and on weekends, even stepping in on her day off to deescalate offenders in crisis, personally ensuring their safety and completing necessary interventions such as drug screenings. Her commitment extends to community engagement and departmental initiatives, including creating homeless care packages, deploying twice to assist with Hurricane Helene relief at a major food distribution center, and contributing to the Violation Workgroup Committee to improve OPUS processes. She also played a pivotal role in the Carteret/Pamlico correctional institutions’ art show by organizing the event, gathering supplies, helping raise over $4,500 for charity, and a recognition banquet for art show participants. Through her creativity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to both the department and the community, “KiKi” exemplifies the highest standards of public service.

Brach Walker, District 17 (Rockingham County) – Honorable Mention
Probation and Parole Officer Branch Walker displays exceptional dedication, professionalism, and life-saving actions within Rockingham County Probation and Parole. Since joining the department in June 2021, after serving honorably in the U.S. Army and the Rockingham Sheriff’s Office, he has consistently demonstrated excellence, supporting colleagues during high-risk field arrests and responding with calm, decisive action in volatile situations. In January 2023, he joined the Division 3 Emergency Response Team, where he earned recognition for his adaptability, leadership, and readiness in critical incidents. He has repeatedly stepped-up during emergencies, including three rounds of deployment for Hurricane Helene relief in September 2024 to provide essential support in the presence of challenging conditions. Brach’s life-saving commitment is equally notable as on March 23, 2025, while on call for the Electronic House Arrest Response Team (EHART), he located an unresponsive offender inside a locked vehicle. He immediately summoned emergency services and ensured the individual survived a potentially fatal overdose. Additionally, he volunteered extensively during the emotional search for 7-year-old Liam King in September 2025, working all available overnight shifts to help safely locate the child. 

The Governor's Awards for Excellence Nominees

Human Relations

Crystal Allen, Critical Incident Peer Support Manager, S.H.I.E.L.D.
Throughout 2024 — a year marked by immense tragedy and disaster — Crystal rose far above her role expectations, becoming a steady source of hope, comfort, and support. She was among the first responders at the hospital following the loss of probation and parole officers Sam Poloche and Alden Elliot and has remained by the families’ sides ever since — coordinating logistics, attending memorials, and offering heartfelt, hands-on support every step of the way. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Crystal was again on the front lines, setting up at Marion Camp to assist impacted staff — listening, comforting, and helping with anything they needed. Known for taking late-night calls and starting again at sunrise, Crystal’s commitment is tireless and deeply human.

George Pettigrew, Senior Deputy Secretary for Rehabilitation and Reentry
Senior Deputy Secretary Pettigrew has devoted his career to transforming lives and strengthening communities across North Carolina since 1992. His leadership and passion for reentry and second chances have made a profound impact both within the Department of Adult Correction and throughout the state. As a driving force behind reentry, he played a vital role in advancing the Justice Reinvestment Act, helping shift the system toward rehabilitation while maintaining public safety. His efforts were instrumental in establishing the Confinement in Response to Violation (CRV) centers, which provide targeted, short-term interventions to reduce unnecessary incarceration and promote fair, effective accountability. Beyond policy, Senior Deputy Secretary Pettigrew has remained deeply engaged in the field — supporting local reentry councils, building authentic relationships with community partners, and leading the creation of the Reentry Probation and Parole Officer (Reentry PPO) initiative to help individuals successfully reintegrate. His humble, collaborative leadership and unwavering belief in second chances have strengthened programs, partnerships, and lives across the state. For him, this work is more than a role, it’s a calling. 

Outstanding State Government Service

Robert VanGorder, Warden, Sampson Correctional Institution
Warden VanGorder has led Sampson Correctional Institution since 2019, bringing decades of experience and a deep commitment to corrections and community service. A Clinton native, he began his career at Sampson CI in 1991 and steadily rose through the ranks, becoming warden after serving in multiple leadership roles. Throughout his career, Warden VanGorder has prioritized staff development and offender rehabilitation. He has served as an instructor in key safety and training areas and played a pivotal role in expanding offender education, including a partnership with Campbell University and the creation of Parent Day to support reentry efforts. Warden VanGorder also actively promotes the mission of corrections through outreach to federal, state, and local partners. His leadership is guided by his belief that “Anyone, anywhere, can make a positive difference.” He is also dedicated to his family and church, serving in the Men’s Fellowship Group and supporting technology needs at Charity Baptist Church.

Kevin Rich, Deputy Budget Director
Kevin Rich is a standout leader and trusted resource known for his exceptional customer service and strategic expertise. With nine years in North Carolina state government and a graduate of the Correctional Leadership Development Program, Kevin has played a critical role in shaping the department’s financial future. He led the complex transition to separate Adult Correction’s budget from the Department of Public Safety, coordinating across multiple agencies to ensure a seamless transfer of budget items and personnel. He also created a comprehensive crosswalk to guide staff through this shift and later enhanced it for the launch of the new North Carolina Financial System. Beyond his operational excellence, Kevin teaches budget classes, presents at department conferences, and supports everyone from frontline officers to executive leaders with clarity, professionalism, and care. 

Public Service

Charlotte Doran, Probation and Parole Officer (Division I, District 4), Clinton 
Charlotte was instrumental in organizing multiple fundraisers to support Ashley Singley, a fellow probation and parole officer battling pancreatic cancer, including a softball tournament, BBQ plate sale, and Boston Butt fundraiser. In honor of her late son, “Crash,” Charlotte created Crash’s Gift, an annual initiative that donates toys, books, and care packages to children and families in need, including those at Falcon’s Children’s Home and the NICU at Maynard’s Children’s Hospital. She also coordinated a district-wide donation drive to support western North Carolina during a critical time, participated in various community events like National Night Out, Candy and Cars in Raleigh, and local Halloween festivities in Clinton. Additionally, she supported Sampson County Schools during the first week of classes and led a donation drive of clothing and hygiene products for the Fountain of Youth housing facility in Mount Olive.

Safety and Heroism

Robin Beach, LPN, Sanford Correctional Center
While flying back from London with her kids, Robin stepped up during a serious medical emergency mid-flight. She was the only medically trained person onboard and ended up helping a woman who was having a diabetic crisis. Robin assessed her, monitored her for the rest of the 8-hour flight, and helped stabilize her condition — which ultimately prevented an emergency landing. The pilot and the woman’s family were incredibly grateful.   

Mike Slagle, Warden, Mountain View Correctional Institution
After Hurricane Helene, Warden Slagle immediately stepped in to support his staff and community. He organized deliveries of essential supplies, including food, water, generators, heating fuel, and even livestock feed, and helped secure RVs and temporary housing for displaced families. He went a step further by coordinating certified electricians to safely connect power and arranging debris removal so families could access their homes. Despite facing damage in his own home, Warden Slagle used his personal time and resources to bring relief and comfort to others

Spirit of North Carolina

Logan T. Butler, Probation and Parole Officer (Division 2, District 13), Shallotte 
Logan was nominated for his exceptional dedication, bravery and service. He goes above and beyond in supervising individuals in treatment, manages an increased caseload, and ensures treatment plans run smoothly. Butler consistently upholds state policies, improving efficiency and reducing waste. He has shown remarkable courage in dangerous situations, including apprehending offenders and risking his safety to protect the community. During Hurricane Helene, he volunteered to assist displaced citizens, taking on tasks outside his role.