California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation's video: Parole employees honored at statewide corrections awards ceremony

The California Probation, Parole and Correctional Association (CPPCA) recognized CDCR Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) employees for their work in helping formerly incarcerated people successfully reenter communities and enhancing public safety. DAPO employees were honored in three categories at CPPCA’s annual awards ceremony. DAPO’s South Coast District, led by Parole Administrator Rajesh Talwar, received the John B. Clark award for outstanding contributions to the field of corrections. Staff at DAPO’s South Coast District, which covers Orange County, were recognized for their effective engagement with formerly incarcerated people and connecting them with community partners and resources to help ensure their successful reentry into the community. Parole agent Ricardo Bautista earned the Ruth Rushen Award, which is awarded to a person working in CDCR who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication, and who has significantly contributed to make a difference in the field of corrections. Bautista was honored for his contributions and leadership throughout the unprecedented challenges faced by CDCR during the COVID-19 pandemic. Central District Parole Agent Juan Rendon was named the Parole Agent of the Year, which is awarded to a parole agent, state or county, working with adults or juveniles, who has made a significant contribution to the field of corrections and/or has exhibited exemplary job performance. Rendon's efforts include helping to establish a community partnership with UEI College in Fresno, which has resulted in UEI representatives participating in Parole and Community Team orientation meetings, where they have successfully enrolled recently released paroled individuals into a UEI certification program.