Bredesen Proclaims Corrections Professionals Week

NASHVILLE - Governor Phil Bredesen has proclaimed May 2-8, 2010 as Corrections Professionals Week in Tennessee.  More than 5,000 men and women work in state correctional facilities in various positions including officers, teachers, counselors and food service employees.

In issuing the proclamation, Governor Bredesen said the state of Tennessee is proud to honor the daily work of these professionals who are responsible for the safety of the citizens of Tennessee by maintaining custody and control of more than 20,000 inmates.

"Corrections Professionals are the unsung heroes in the criminal justice arena.  The work they do in security and rehabilitation helps make our communities safer through both incapacitation and helping offenders to gain the skills needed to be successful when they leave prison," said Commissioner Gayle Ray.

Correctional professionals are required to co-exist, work and protect inmates from violence while encouraging them to develop skills and attitudes that can help them become productive, responsible members of society following their release.