Wisconsin Jail Association

03/07/2026

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Blessed and grateful for the opportunity to speak at the 2026 Wisconsin Jail Association Conference this March in Stevens Point, Wisconsin.

I’ll be delivering the opening keynote, a second keynote session, and the closing wrap-up for the day. My presentations will focus on the human side of working inside the walls — the culture, stress, and realities correctional staff face every day but rarely talk about.

Corrections is one of the toughest professions there is, and it’s encouraging to see organizations like the Wisconsin Jail Association investing in education, leadership, and the wellness of their staff.

If you’ll be attending the conference, I look forward to seeing you there.

I’m always grateful for opportunities to speak with correctional professionals about wellness, culture, and surviving the job.

11/12/2025

To all veterans—your sacrifice is the reason freedom rings across America. || https://merrychristmas-happynewyear.com/happy-veterans-day-2025-gif-images-wishes/

11/11/2025

The Wisconsin Jail Association would like to thank everyone who attended our Fall Workshop in River Falls on November 4th. Those who attended had the opportunity to hear Rob Yantis from National Institute for Jail Operations (NIJO) speak on several important topics: Leadership, Use of Force, Grievances and more. Turnkey hosted and allowed attendees to take a tour of their facility and Skillet Kitchens provided a wonderful lunch. We truly value our relationship with amazing companies/vendors and appreciate their continued support.

07/31/2025

01/07/2025

WJA award nomination information for 2025 WJA conference. More instructions can be found on the WJA website: www.wjawi.org

Jail Officer of the Year

Recognizes the jail officer who engenders credit and honor to their facility and career. Displaying leadership and involvement in facility and community activities.

Jail Manager of the Year

Recognizes the jail manager, (i.e. supervisor, administrator, etc.) who has displayed progressive vision to their staff and career- demonstrating a documented history of service and leadership in the field of corrections.

Jail Support Personnel of the Year

Recognizes those support personnel that by way of their daily activity, or singular meritorious action, have advanced that which is best in the field of corrections. The recipient could be a clerk, counselor, food service worker, medical professional, volunteer, academic, or law enforcement official.

Motivator Award

The motivator award describes the dynamic individual who takes initiative daily to lead their team, boost morale, and remain dedicated to navigating their team through every day. They continuously and consistently show up and effortlessly integrate positivity into everyday operations despite the challenging environment in a jail. This dedicated individual is a true driving force amongst their peers that inspires us all to continue to show up in the best way possible not only at work but in life.
Motivator Nominee Demonstrates:
· Teamwork
· Reliability
· Positivity
· Consistency
· Dedication
· Motivation
· Inspiration

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS JANUARY 31, 2025

12/30/2024

On December 24th, 2024 the Dunn County Sheriff’s Office lost one of its own. Correctional Officer Jeff Reynolds was Westbound on US Hwy 12/ State Hwy 29 at 02:44 a.m. enroute to fill a shift at the Jail when his vehicle was struck by a Northbound vehicle on Cth E that failed to stop at the posted stop sign. Jeff began his career with the Sheriff’s Office in 2007 and was a valued member who will be missed greatly. The operator of the striking vehicle, 40 year old Mark A. Sokolowski of Eau Claire, has been charged with Homicide by Intoxicated Use of a Vehicle and is currently being held at the Eau Claire County Jail. Three other passengers in his vehicle, including his wife, were also injured in the crash. Sokolowski had his initial appearance today and Dunn County Judge Wagner issued a $75,000 Cash bond. The crash investigation is being conducted by the Wisconsin State Patrol. The Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Wisconsin State Patrol, Menomonie Fire Department and Menomonie Police Department for their support and assistance.

10/02/2024

Stop by WJA booth at the Wisconsin Jail Administrators Conference!