Leadership in Corrections: Five Must Have Competencies

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Calvin Burnett, affectionately known as Cal, is an African-American novelist, publisher, screenwriter and motivational speaker from Oakland, California. Cal was raised in a single parent home on the east side of Oakland, California and at an early age strayed down a negative path of violence, drug dealing, and substance abuse. He would spend over ten years (14-25) of his life running the streets, going back and forth to jail, and causing havoc throughout his community. Cal's ultimate goal is to reach back to those still trapped in the matrix and offer his testimony as proof that anyone who commits to change can be delivered from what appears to be an unbreakable cycle. He has partnered with a number of outreach programs and nonprofit organizations sharing his knowledge, skills, and experiences with those in need. Calvin now serves as lead facilitator for Clean Enterprises aspiring leaders and justice-involved individuals to reach their fullest potential.

Diane Campbell brings over three decades of experience in education and youth development, helping individuals overcome barriers and reach their full potential. Known as a transformational leader, she has turned around some of the most challenging schools in Ohio’s largest district by building trust, teamwork, and accountability. Diane’s work centers on helping young people make positive choices, strengthen support systems, and build skills that last well beyond the classroom—goals that closely align with community corrections and reentry work. As the author of Despite Our Circumstances: Stories to Lead Educators Through Adversity, she continues to inspire educators and community leaders to see potential in every person and create environments where change is possible.

Antonio Smith is an author, professional development coach, and community activist who has reached unimaginable heights, simply because he's not afraid to fail. Antonio graduated with a BS in Mechanical Engineering from The Ohio State University, and played football for the Buckeyes, winning a national championship in 2002. Antonio also went on to play three seasons in the NFL for the Colts, Lions and Bengals. Over the last 15 years, Antonio has used the lessons he learned on and off the field to assist leaders, executives and high performing teams, in the corrections industry, reach their fullest potential. Antonio has created and cultivated high level curriculum and programming, including his notable CLEAN program, to serve those in institutional and community corrections.