The annual conference of the American Jail Association (AJA) was recently held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida with a record-breaking number of people in attendance. Elected officials, law enforcement executives, and correctional medical and mental health leaders spent several days networking and learning about the challenges and opportunities associated with working in and managing our nation’s jails.
The Award
Each year, one individual is chosen through nomination and awards committee vote to be the “Civilian Employee of the Year” for the AJA. This award is given to one person who gives exceptional support to jail personnel, is considered the “go-to” person, and is indispensable to their facility and the staff employed therein. This year seven candidates were advanced to the final selection process. Each candidate made significant contributions and were outstanding in their own way. In the end, one person – Nurse Jennifer May — stood out and was recognized at the annual awards ceremony.
Nursing Excellence
Jennifer May is a registered nurse employed by the Williams County Sheriff’s Office in Williston, North Dakota. She’s been working with County Corrections since 2015 and is credited with being the primary leader responsible for standing up an entire correctional medical department from scratch. Nurse May developed policies, procedures, and necessary forms. She works with providers, agencies, and programs to ensure individuals receive appropriate care. She places focus on mental health and ensures continuity of care for those returning to the community.
Correctional leadership referred to Nurse May as “bringing lightness to the sometimes darkness of working in a correctional setting” and reported that she “dedicates her patience, heart, and soul” into making a difference for inmates and staff. This is what truly defines excellence in the profession. Nurse May has set an example as a leader, and she earned this recognition.
Making a Difference
While we celebrate the success of Nurse May, we should also look for opportunities to apply her example in our own personal and professional lives. Each of us can impact others and make a difference. Correctional leaders have recognized the significant impacts Nurse May has in the Williams County Correctional Center. It’s clear that medical and custody can achieve great success with the right individuals providing leadership and guidance, with a great team to provide care.
NCCHC Resource’s main mission is to bring together custody and health care to support quality patient care as a team. It’s our pleasure to congratulate Nurse Jennifer May on being nominated and receiving the 2024 AJA “Civilian Employee of the Year” award!
By Fred Meyer, MA, CJM, CCHP