Warden's Corner

In May of 2018, Rockhurst University brought the program, Companions in Chillicothe to the Chillicothe Correctional Center. Shortly after my appointment to Warden at Chillicothe Correctional Center in July of 2017, I was introduced to then Rockhurst University President, Rev. Thomas Curran, S. J., and Program Director Craig Watz. During the planning phases of this program, Fr. Curran and Dir. Watz ensured that safety and security remained a priority for both staff and residents. The relationship that these men have built with our administration, staff, and residents from day one of this program is a true testament of their compassion for others.

These education opportunities for the residents at Chillicothe Correctional Center has made a positive difference in their lives and the environment in which they live. While the institutional setting for residents is structured in order to maintain control of resident movement within the institution, the self-fulfilling satisfaction of furthering their education in a classroom is what brings confidence to the resident students.

Postsecondary education for the residents gives them better opportunities for employment upon release and less likely that they are to recidivate. Additionally, for those residents being released, the earlier that they find employment, the sooner that they can provide for their themselves as well as their families.

Another positive effect that the Rockhurst program has brought to Chillicothe Correctional Center is the social confidence of the resident students. This is something that is important to all resident students of Rockhurst regardless of their length of sentence. They have learned to communicate better with other residents and staff within the institution while following the rules and maintaining successful institutional adjustment. The ability to navigate the daily life challenges within the institution and be an encouragement to other residents makes for a safer living environment for all. By giving the residents of Chillicothe Correctional Center access to a higher education, Rockhurst gives them the resources they need to change their lives and the lives of others by stopping trends of criminal behavior.

I am truly thankful for what Rockhurst University has brought to the staff and residents at Chillicothe Correctional Center. Their care and compassion for the students here is and always will be greatly appreciated.