JAILCON26 Southern Regional Corrections Professionals Awards

On October 15, 2026, the National Institute for Jail Operations (NIJO) proudly honored several outstanding corrections professionals during the Corrections Professionals Awards Luncheon at the JAILCON26 Southern Regional Conference in Chattanooga, Tennessee. These individuals were recognized for their dedication, leadership, and exceptional contributions to the corrections profession, as well as their commitment to serving their agencies, colleagues, and communities.

Tate McCotter, NIJO Executive Director and Melissa Bjergo, NIJO Director of Agency Development & Partnerships, presented the awards and also recognized agencies and individuals who had earned NIJO National Accreditation and Professional Certification.

NIJO wishes to extend our congratulations to the following award recipients.

JAILCON26 Southern Regional
Corrections Professionals Awards

CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR AWARD

Jamie Rogers

Social Worker, Shelby County Sheriff's Office, AL

The Civilian Employee of the Year Award goes to a “non-certified” Detention employee serving in a support section of the Office who provides innovative ideas that enhanced the efficiency of the facility in line with the mission of the Office during the past year.

NIJO proudly recognizes Jamie Rogers of the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (AL) as the recipient of the Civilian Employee of the Year Award for her outstanding dedication to helping individuals rebuild their lives and strengthening her community.

In April 2024, Jamie became the first social worker dedicated to the Shelby County Jail and built its social work program from the ground up. Through partnerships with community organizations, she has connected individuals with rehabilitation facilities, employment opportunities, veterans’ benefits, identification documents, and other essential resources to support successful reentry. From June 2024 through March 2025, Jamie helped place 88 individuals in rehabilitation facilities, providing them with opportunities to begin a new chapter.

Jamie also championed the launch of the National Sheriffs’ Association’s I.G.N.I.T.E. (Inmate Growth Naturally and Intentionally Through Education) program at the jail in April 2025. Since its launch, 32 participants have earned more than 250 certificates, gaining valuable skills and opportunities for personal growth and future employment.

Through her initiative, compassion, and tireless work, Jamie has made a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves and the broader Shelby County community. Her commitment to rehabilitation, personal responsibility, and reducing recidivism makes her an invaluable asset to the Sheriff’s Office.

Congratulations to Jamie Rogers on this well-deserved recognition! Her work demonstrates the powerful impact one dedicated individual can have on people, families, and an entire community.

Congratulations to Jamie Rogers of the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (AL) on this well-deserved recognition!

HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARD

Martha Perez

Director of Nursing, Harrison County Sheriff's Office, MS

The Healthcare Professional of the Year Award is for Detention Center medical staff who set the bar for jail medical programs and best represents the overall spirit of professionalism, caring, and dedication.

NIJO proudly recognizes Martha Perez, RN, Director of Nursing at the Harrison County Adult Detention Center (HCADC), as the recipient of the Health Care Professional of the Year Award. Her dedication to patient care, professional growth, and collaboration with correctional staff exemplifies excellence in correctional health care.

Martha’s journey reflects her commitment to both her profession and the individuals she serves. While working at HCADC as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), she continued her education while maintaining her commitment to the facility. She advanced to Registered Nurse (RN) in 2025 and became Director of Nursing in 2026, demonstrating remarkable perseverance and professional growth.

Known for her compassionate, personable approach, Martha treats everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of their circumstances. She provides guidance on medical concerns, medications, and healthy lifestyle choices, and skillfully assists individuals experiencing difficult or challenging situations. Her fluency in Spanish also allows her to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking inmates, helping them feel understood and at ease. She is a trusted resource for both inmates and correctional staff, consistently demonstrating reliability, sound judgment, and a willingness to help.

Martha’s compassion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to quality care make her an invaluable asset to VitalCore and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office.

Congratulations to Martha Perez on this well-deserved recognition! Her dedication represents the very best of health care professionals serving in corrections.

DETENTION OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Nia Odom

Detention Sergeant, Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office, NC

The Detention Officer of the Year Award is awarded to a Certified Detention Officer, without regard to years in service, who has exhibited professionalism and dedication to the Office and the community during the past year.

NIJO proudly recognizes Nia Odom of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office as this year’s recipient. Since her nomination, Nia has been promoted from Field Training Officer to Detention Sergeant—a testament to her leadership and commitment to the profession. Sergeant Odom exemplifies professionalism, compassion, and dedication through her efforts to develop fellow officers, strengthen team morale, and support the well-being of her colleagues.

As a Field Training Officer and member of MCSO’s Peer Support Team during the nomination period, Sergeant Odom went above and beyond to help officers build essential skills, understand policies, and navigate the challenges of working in corrections. She championed mental health awareness, encouraged staff to seek support when needed, and reminded her colleagues that they never have to “suffer in silence.”

Through staff appreciation initiatives, team-building events, training opportunities, and daily messages of encouragement, Sergeant Odom has helped foster a positive workplace culture where officers feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow. Her commitment to staff development, peer support, and employee retention reflects an extraordinary dedication to her colleagues and agency.

Congratulations to Sergeant Nia Odom of the Mecklenburge County Sheriff’s Office (NC) on this well-deserved recognition!

DETENTION SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR AWARD

Melissa Harris

Master Sergeant, Douglas County Sheriff's Office, GA

The Detention Supervisor of the Year Award is presented to a Lieutenant or Sergeant serving in a supervisory capacity who excels in their position and is highly regarded by their staff for consistent leadership, integrity, understanding, and support—both professionally and personally—during the past year.

NIJO proudly recognizes Master Sergeant Melissa Harris as the recipient of the Detention Supervisor of the Year Award for her exceptional leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to her team.

Known for her steady presence under pressure, Master Sergeant Harris leads by example, communicates clearly, and holds her officers accountable with fairness and respect. She consistently prioritizes the safety and security of the facility while ensuring daily operations run smoothly. Her team trusts her judgment, values her guidance, and looks to her as a role model for professionalism and accountability.

What truly sets Master Sergeant Harris apart is her genuine care for the people she leads. Beyond mentoring officers and advocating for her team, she offers personal support during life’s most difficult moments. Whether driving an officer home when their vehicle breaks down, praying with staff during personal struggles, or traveling more than an hour to attend and sing at an officer’s family funeral, she demonstrates that leadership extends far beyond the workplace.

Through her compassion, dependability, and commitment to her team’s success, Master Sergeant Harris has helped foster a positive, supportive, and accountable work environment where officers feel valued and know they are never alone.

Congratulations to Master Sergeant Harris of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (GA) on this well-deserved recognition! Her example reflects the very best of leadership in corrections.

DETENTION ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD

Josh Barber

Lieutenant, DicksonCounty Sheriff's Office, TN

The Detention Administrator of the Year Award recognizes a jail administrator who demonstrates exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to their facility and staff. This award reflects the depth of talent, dedication, and commitment found throughout the corrections profession.

NIJO proudly recognizes Lieutenant Josh Barber of the Dickson County Jail as the recipient of the Administrator of the Year Award for his outstanding leadership, commitment to excellence, and dedication to the corrections profession.

Lieutenant Barber has played a pivotal role in strengthening the jail’s workplace culture by fostering an environment built on accountability, professionalism, integrity, and continuous improvement. Through mentorship, effective communication, and encouragement of professional development, he has strengthened staff morale and inspired his team to take pride in their work.

His commitment to proactive supervision, policy compliance, and operational preparedness has also enhanced the facility’s safety and security. By addressing concerns before they escalate and maintaining high operational standards, Lieutenant Barber helps ensure staff are prepared to meet daily challenges while protecting the well-being of staff, inmates, and visitors.

Beyond daily operations, Lieutenant Barber demonstrates a genuine commitment to the people he serves, supporting correctional staff, ensuring inmates are treated in accordance with policy and constitutional requirements, and reinforcing the trust placed in the agency by the Dickson County community.

Congratulations to Lieutenant Josh Barber on this well-deserved recognition! His leadership, integrity, and dedication have made a lasting impact on the Dickson County Jail and exemplify the highest standards of the corrections profession.

DEDICATION TO EXCELLENCE AWARD

We are proud to recognize two exceptionally deserving individuals with this year’s Dedication to Excellence Award. Both recipients exemplify the highest standards of professionalism, service, and commitment to the corrections profession. Their tireless work and consistent dedication to excellence stood out among an impressive group of nominations.

Captain Susan Black

Cullman County Sheriff's Office, AL

NIJO proudly recognizes Captain Susan Black for her outstanding dedication, organizational excellence, and behind-the-scenes contributions to the corrections profession. Her peers throughout the Alabama Jail Administrators Council (AJAC), a statewide organization of jail administrators and supervisors, describe her as an invaluable asset whose commitment to detail and passion for serving others make a lasting difference.

Known for her exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail, Captain Black manages the many moving parts that keep operations running smoothly—often handling responsibilities that others may never see. Her famously comprehensive, color-coded binders are just one example of the care and enthusiasm she brings to her work!

Beyond her daily responsibilities, Captain Black generously volunteers her time as both Secretary and Treasurer of AJAC, helping ensure correctional officers and administrators throughout Alabama have access to valuable, high-quality training. Her willingness to serve behind the scenes reflects a genuine commitment not only to her own agency but to the broader corrections community.

Her colleagues say it best: Captain Black’s dedication is unmatched, she is deeply appreciated, and there is an abundance of admiration for her throughout the profession.

Congratulations, Captain Susan Black of Cullman County Sheriff’s Office, AL! Your hard work, selfless service, and commitment to excellence are appreciated more than you know!

William Cope

Superintendent, Rutherford County Correctional Work Center, TN

NIJO proudly recognizes Superintendent William C. Cope, CJM, of the Rutherford County Correctional Work Center (TN) as the second recipient of the Dedication to Excellence Award for his outstanding leadership, innovative vision, and nearly three decades of service in corrections.

Since joining Rutherford County Government in 1999, Superintendent Cope has championed evidence-based programming, education, rehabilitation, and successful reentry. Under his leadership, countless programs have been developed and implemented to help individuals build essential skills, reduce recidivism, and prepare for productive lives after incarceration. His commitment to operational excellence was further demonstrated in 2018, when he led the Rutherford County Correctional Work Center to achieve a 100% score during its American Correctional Association accreditation process.

A respected leader and advocate for the corrections profession, Superintendent Cope has earned numerous honors, including the 2021 Tennessee Corrections Institute Jail Administrator of the Year Award and the 2024 National Association of Reentry Professionals Leadership Award. He also dedicates his time to community partnerships, mental health initiatives, homelessness prevention, and reentry collaborations at the local, state, and federal levels.

Through his collaborative leadership, commitment to staff development, and dedication to improving outcomes for those in his care, he has helped establish a model for correctional excellence in Tennessee.

Congratulations to Superintendent William C. Cope on this well-deserved recognition!

DISTINGUISHED VALOR AWARD

Charleston Tensley

Detention Sergeant, Fulton County Sheriff's Office, GA

The National Institute for Jail Operations (NIJO) proudly recognizes Sergeant Charleston Tensley of the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office (GA) as the recipient of the Distinguished Valor Award for his extraordinary courage, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to protecting others.

On October 7, 2025, Sergeant Tensley responded to a call for assistance involving a fellow officer threatened by an armed inmate at the Fulton County Jail. Without hesitation, he rushed to help and attempted to de-escalate the situation. The inmate attacked him, stabbing him seven times in the neck, head, face, and chest. Despite his severe injuries, Sergeant Tensley continued to fight back, helping prevent further harm to fellow officers, inmates, and others in the facility.

His bravery reflects a long-standing record of dedication and professionalism. Known for his reliability, sound judgment, and ability to manage volatile situations, Sergeant Tensley is a trusted leader whom colleagues and supervisors rely on when challenges arise. Even while receiving emergency medical treatment following the attack, his concern remained focused on the well-being of his fellow officers. Remarkably, he returned to duty the same week.

Sergeant Tensley’s actions demonstrate the courage, sacrifice, and selfless service that define the very best of the corrections profession. His willingness to place himself in harm’s way to protect others is a powerful example of the commitment detention professionals demonstrate every day.

Congratulations to Sergeant Charleston Tensley of the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office (GA) on this well-deserved recognition. His extraordinary valor and dedication to duty exemplify the highest ideals of service and honor the professionals who work tirelessly to keep our correctional facilities safe.

O. LANE McCOTTER
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AWARD

Sheriff Ron Freeman

Forsyth County, GA

Some people have a unique ability to make things happen. In sports, they’re called playmakers—the people who lead with integrity, intelligence, and passion, turning challenges into opportunities and making their entire team better. Sheriff Ron Freeman of the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office in Georgia is one of those leaders.

Since taking office in 2017, Sheriff Freeman has made a remarkable impact on jail operations, transforming the culture and elevating the role of detention professionals. He challenged the perception that jail officers are second-class citizens by creating career advancement opportunities, prioritizing training, investing in staff recognition, and ensuring detention personnel receive the respect and support they deserve. His commitment extends beyond words: he regularly visits staff, provides meals and apparel specifically for jail personnel, and has even arranged for road deputies and supervisors to work alongside detention staff to strengthen understanding, teamwork, and operational support.

Sheriff Freeman’s vision also extends to improving outcomes for those in custody. Under his leadership, the facility launched a Residential Substance Abuse Treatment program, expanded staffing to support specialized housing for individuals with mental health and medical needs, and introduced the Pups with Purpose program, which allows inmates to train dogs for adoption and potential therapy or service work. He also championed NIJO accreditation, making the Forsyth County Jail the first—and, at the time of this recognition, the only—facility in Georgia to achieve it.

Beyond his own agency, Sheriff Freeman has contributed to the broader corrections profession. As President of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association, he established a committee to update and rewrite the state’s Basic Jail School curriculum, helping advance training standards for agencies across Georgia. His personal commitment to those in his care is equally evident, from preparing Thanksgiving meals for inmates to providing pizza during the challenges of COVID-19.

Sheriff Freeman regularly attends JAILCON to support his team, celebrate their achievements, and watch them receive the recognition they deserve. This year, however, he arrived expecting to celebrate others—and instead, the opportunity came to recognize him.

Congratulations, Sheriff Ron Freeman! Your leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to detention professionals and the corrections profession have made a lasting difference.

NIJO National Accreditation Recognition

NIJO National Accreditation provides correctional administrators with an established process for verifying and recognizing compliance with the legal requirements for operating a constitutionally safe facility. NIJO’s accreditation program is built around more than 600 state-specific Legal-Based Guidelines, designed to help detention and correctional facilities address applicable legal requirements, court rulings, and statutes. Achieving accreditation requires more than simply meeting standards—it requires legally based policies and procedures, thorough documentation, and consistent implementation throughout the facility.

Baldwin County Sheriff's Office, AL

Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office (GA) has completed their 3rd year of their 3rd cycle for national accreditation through NIJO. The accreditation team continues to set the bar high, maintaining their Level I Accreditation. Through their continued hard work and dedication, we are pleased to award them with a Level I Accreditation!

Congratulations to Sheriff Anthony Lowery, Accreditation Manager Lieutenant Kendrick McNeal, and the entire Baldwin County team for maintaining Level I National Accreditation.

Shelby County Sheriff's Office, AL

Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (AL) has recently completed their 1st year of their 4th cycle for national accreditation through NIJO. The accreditation team continues their dedication to maintaining and operating a legally sound facility and through their hard work, we are pleased to award them with a Level I Accreditation!

Congratulations to Sheriff John Samaniego, Accreditation Manager Lieutenant Josh Forrest, and the entire Shelby County accreditation team for achieving Level I National Accreditation.

Harrison County Sheriff's Office, MS

Harrison County Sheriff’s Office (MS) has completed their 3rd year of their 2nd cycle for national accreditation through NIJO. The accreditation team has demonstrated a continued dedication and motivation to maintain the highest level of recognition, and through their hard work, we are pleased to award them with a Level I Accreditation!

Congratulations to Sheriff Matt Haley, Captain Elaine Lege, Accreditation Manager Yvernee Washington, and the entire Harrison County team for maintaining Level I National Accreditation.

Forsyth County Sheriff's Office, GA

Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office (GA) has completed their 2nd year of their 2nd cycle for national accreditation through NIJO. Their dedication to maintaining and operating at the highest level is incredible, and through their hard work, we are pleased to award them with a Level I Accreditation!

Congratulations to Sheriff Ron H. Freeman, Captain Mark Flowers, and the entire Forsyth County accreditation team for maintaining Level I National Accreditation.

Tuscaloosa County Sheriff's Office, AL

Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office (AL) has recently completed their 2nd year of their 1st cycle for national accreditation through NIJO. Through their commitment to the Alabama Legal-Based Jail Guidelines and the accreditation process, they have demonstrated their resolve to operating a legally defensible facility, and we are pleased to award them with a Level II Accreditation.

Congratulations to Sheriff Ron Abernathy, Accreditation Managers Sergeant Brandon Truitt and John Dorreity, and the entire Tuscaloosa County team for maintaining Level II National Accreditation.

Scott County Sheriff's Office, IN

The Scott County Sheriff’s Office (IN) has successfully completed the first year of its first accreditation cycle through NIJO’s National Accreditation Program. Through their commitment to implementing the Indiana Legal-Based Jail Guidelines and completing the accreditation process, the Scott County team has demonstrated a strong commitment to operating a safe, effective, and legally defensible facility. In recognition of this achievement, we are pleased to award the Scott County Sheriff’s Office with Level I National Accreditation.

Congratulations to Sheriff Jerry Goodin, Jail Administrator Doug Herald, Assistant Jail Administrator Patti Coombs, and the entire Scott County Sheriff’s Office team on this significant accomplishment. Their dedication to continuous improvement and excellence in jail operations is commendable.

NIJO Professional Certification

Professional Certification through the National Institute for Jail Operations (NIJO) was created to offer a highly respected national certification to individuals seeking a curriculum rooted in legal principles. This certification is not simply issued, it is earned, demonstrating the expertise and competency of jail and detention officers, supervisors, administrators, and sheriffs. NIJO offers three distinct levels of certification for those aiming for career growth and progression in the field.

National Certified Corrections Executive (NCCE)

The following individuals were recognized for earning the designation of National Certified Corrections Executive (NCCE), a credential that requires the successful completion of 115 hours of legal-based training and the achievement of a 100% score on all certification examinations.