Devotion at Its Best.

Dedication, integrity and ambition have been three characteristics Janis Jones has displayed during her 21 years in corrections. She began her career in 1979 at the Hartford Correctional Center in Connecticut as a clerk typist in the records department. "I was looking for a job that was challenging with career opportunities," Jones says. She made the right decision, for she has been presented a variety of opportunities and challenges since the start of her career.

Jones began to climb the ladder of success in 1984, when she became a correctional officer at the Hartford Correctional Center. In 1985, she was transferred to the new, all-male Morgan Street Detention Center, where she was assigned as a booking officer. She then transferred back to the Hartford Correctional Center in 1993, where she has performed nearly every task assigned to correctional officers. Jones became a facility disciplinary investigator in 1995, a position she continues to hold today. According to Warden Mary Johnson, Jones' past supervisor, Jones' leadership qualities have been an asset to the Connecticut Department of Corrections (DOC) since day one. "Officer Jones has always displayed exemplary integrity, devotion, dedication and professionalism, both on and off the job," says Johnson.

Among the many crucial skills required of correctional officers, Jones feels teamwork is most important. "Correctional officers must respect and support one another at all times." According to Johnson, Jones is a true team player and shows constant support for and respect toward her fellow employees. "She always makes time for anyone in need and, at times, assists others with different responsibilities to fully understand and/or become well-versed in all aspects of their duties," says Johnson. "Staff do not hesitate to approach her for guidance because they have confidence in her and know she will not mislead them."

To show her appreciation, Johnson, along with the entire staff of the Hartford Correctional Center, recommended Jones for Correctional Officer of the Year. Jones, who received the award in 1999, was honored and surprised. "I certainly never expected to receive such an award," she says. "Just knowing that the people you work with appreciate your efforts and contributions is an honor in itself."

Among the obstacles she has faced throughout her career, Jones says the most challenging were the demanding off-shift assignments, double shifts, working weekends and holidays, and raising a family at the same time. "It was always a challenge ensuring I spent quality time with my family in spite of the difficult work schedules," she says.

Although Morgan Street Detention Center was another big challenge, Jones says it was her most rewarding experience and that she is proud she accomplished the challenge of being the only female officer. "Jones' desire to strive forward has not slowed down or halted in any way during her career," says Johnson.

By overcoming obstacles, along with everyday stressful and chaotic assignments, Jones has, according to Johnson, proved that the PRIDE (Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Dignity and Excellence) model of the Connecticut DOC is still alive and well. "I have always given my very best effort to any job that I have been assigned and have always made time to help my fellow staff," says Jones. "To have Mary Johnson describe me as an example for the department motto is the greatest compliment anyone could receive."

Elizabeth Klug is assistant editor of Corrections Today.