USU to Graduate First Cohort of New Leadership Training Program for Corrections Officers

TAYLORSVILLE — Utah State University, in partnership with the Utah Department of Corrections, is set to graduate the first cohort of participants from its newly developed leadership training program.

A ceremony will take place on Dec. 13 to honor 30 UDC supervisors and managers who have successfully completed the new training offered through USU’s Criminal Justice Program.

“After a few short months of crucial leadership learning, I feel more prepared than ever to take back the skills and knowledge I need to build and lead great teams where I work,” participant Sgt. Luke Batchelor said. “The class has been monumental in my personal leadership development, and I can't wait to pass this information on.”

Designed to enhance the skills of corrections professionals and foster effective leadership within the department, the program has seen participants undergo a rigorous course focused on strengthening their ability to manage teams, communicate effectively, and make critical decisions in high-pressure environments. The program aims to develop the next generation of leaders in the correctional system by blending academic learning with practical application.

"The successful completion of the first Utah State University and Utah Department of Corrections Leadership Development Program marks a significant milestone in advancing leadership excellence within the field of corrections,” said course instructor criminal justice Professional Practice Assistant Professor Glen Haas, reflecting on the program’s success and future potential.

The ceremony will celebrate the achievements of the first group of graduates, who have completed several months of training and development. Local media are invited to attend the event to learn more about the program’s impact and hear directly from the participants and program leaders.

“I have greatly valued the opportunity to engage with others in the department who are navigating similar challenges. The class has reaffirmed my passion for leadership and provided me with enhanced knowledge and skills to better lead and motivate my team,” said Lt. Melissa Maxwell, a student in the course.

The inaugural graduation event will take place at USU Salt Lake, located at 920 W Levoy Dr., Taylorsville, Utah, on Friday, Dec. 13, 2024, beginning at 12:30 p.m. For media inquiries or for information on attending, please contact Haas, who is also the Correctional Leadership Development Program director in the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice: glen.haas@usu.edu.

"I’m very proud to have been a part of this program, and I’m excited by the direction the university is headed in partnering with the Utah Department of Corrections and others,” Haas said. “I’m confident these partnerships will serve the communities in Utah very well."