Measuring Program Effectiveness

SESSION INFO

Tuesday, February 27, 2024
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Session Type: Workshop

Measuring Program Effectiveness – it's no secret that one of the most significant challenges in the reentry field is implementing programs that produce positive results. The presenters will take you through their experience with monitoring and ensuring that programs are being conducted with fidelity and delivering positive outcomes. We will explore avenues such as recidivism, intermediate outcomes, and adherence to evidence-based practices. Learn how your agency can begin measuring program effectiveness today!

SESSION PRESENTERS

Whitney Ascuena-Bolt
Project Manager, ID Department of Correction


Whitney is a seasoned professional with over two decades of dedicated service to the Idaho Department of Correction (IDOC). With a robust background spanning 16 years within the Division of Probation and Parole, she excelled as a presentence investigator and program manager, showcasing exceptional skills in case management and rehabilitation. Currently serving as the agency’s Strategic Initiatives Manager, Whitney leads a dynamic team tasked with implementing large-scale initiatives across IDOC. Her expertise in project and change management is evident in her diverse portfolio, which includes initiatives aimed at improving data accessibility and decision-making in community corrections, adopting gender-responsive approaches, enhancing staff culture, and addressing the correctional staffing crisis.


Rachel Kienzler
Regional Director, Partnership Development, GEO Care


Ms. Kienzler coordinates with GEO Reentry’s government partners to develop tailored solutions to support their criminal justice stakeholder needs for in-custody, residential and community-based programs and services. Ms. Kienzler has 25 years of industry experience, including 17 years in operations management. In her current role, Ms. Kienzler has applied her operational knowledge to collaborate with internal and external experts in the development of programs and services in multiple states and jurisdictions throughout the western United States, including Idaho, California, Nevada, Texas and Wyoming, serving County, State and Federal agencies. Ms. Kienzler holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Social Work.


Amanda Lightfoote
Director, Outcomes, Fidelity & Innovation, Geo Group


Ms. Lightfoote supports GEO Reentry’s non-residential facilities and programs by ensuring program adherence to EBP and developing program design innovations that align with evolving agency needs. She also focuses on program outcomes and helps programs make data-driven decisions in order to improve participant success rates. Ms. Lightfoote has more than 20 years of management experience and has been with GEO Reentry for 15 years operating programs in the community and in custody. Prior to her current position, she served as Area Manager of our GEO’s non-residential reentry programs in Northern California; as Program Manager for our Napa County DRC; and as Aftercare Coordinator for our San Diego DRC. As a result, she is highly experienced in working with diverse populations and criminal justice agencies across the country. Ms. Lightfoote holds a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration and a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology.


Evette Navedo
Statewide Manager, Idaho Connection and Intervention Stations, Geo Group


Evette Navedo serves as the Statewide Manager, bearing responsibility for the comprehensive oversight of all operations, programs, and personnel across the Connection and Intervention Stations (CIS) throughout Idaho. With over 13 years of extensive leadership experience in reentry and community corrections programs, encompassing both residential and non-residential settings, including roles such as Quality Assurance Manager for GEO’s Continuum of Care Division and previously as an Assistant Facility Director of a residential reentry center, she manifests a dedication to achieving impactful outcomes. Driven by a commitment to effecting substantial change, she takes great pride in guiding teams toward the delivery of exceptionally high-quality services. In her capacity as Statewide Manager, her primary objectives revolve around reducing recidivism rates within Idaho and fostering positive transformations in individuals' lives.