Implementation Science: Ohio's Journey of Practical Strategies

SESSION INFO

Wednesday, January 25, 2023
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Session Type: Workshop

The Ohio Adult Parole Authority (APA) has been a leader in the adoption of evidence-based practices. Despite tremendous effort, the APA recognized opportunities for alignment of their policies and practices and the need to build capacity to bring about meaningful and sustainable outcomes. By using an implementation approach, the APA adopted the Five Dynamics of Effective Implementation to identify the implementation gaps that get in the way of our efforts being sustainable. The primary focus has been on building support for supervisors and mid-level managers that encourages effectiveness, efficiency, and high- quality work environments. Join us in this session where we talk about the journey that the APA has been on, their ability to create feedback loops, and their efforts to better align their policies, practices, and programs with their vision. This presentation will focus on the real-world work of alignment and its impact on staff wellbeing and organization culture.

SESSION PRESENTERS

Suzanne Brooks
Parole Program Administrator, OH Department of Rehabilitation and Correction


Suzanne Brooks is a Deputy Superintendent of the Ohio Adult Parole Authority and also serves as the Interstate Compact Deputy Compact Administrator. Suzanne serves on the Executive Committee and the Compliance Committee for the Interstate Commission for Adult Offender Supervision. Additionally, she was appointed Chair of the Deputy Compact Administrator Liaison Committee in 2021. Suzanne started with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction in 2003 as a Parole Officer. During her career, she has been a leader in training, change initiatives, and serving as a liaison to courts.


Jessica Dennis
Superintendent, OH Department of Rehabilitation and Correction


Jessica Dennis currently serves as a Superintendent for the Adult Parole Authority at the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC). In this role, she aims to improve the lives of supervisees by incorporating evidence-based practices and risk reduction strategies into post release supervision. Jessica has over 22 years of experience and has served in many roles at ODRC including- Parole Officer, Investigator, Deputy Warden, and Deputy Director.


Joy Reid
Supervisor, OH Department of Rehabilitation and Correction


Joy Reid has been a Correctional Professional for over 33yrs. She has served the state of Ohio for approximately 22yrs working in the Cleveland Region Adult Parole Authority as a Parole Services Supervisor. Throughout her career, she has remained passionate about staff development as well as training and facilitating programs for returning citizens to have a more successful supervision.


Dr. Alexandra Walker
Director of Community Relations and Strategy, The Alliance for Community & Justice Innovation


Dr. Alexandra Walker has over 20 years of experience in reentry and behavioral health. She offers a diverse background in evidence-based practices, training, program development, implementation science, and treatment. Dr. Walker has managed implementation efforts in both community based and institutional corrections. As the Director of Community Relations and Strategy, Dr. Walker develops organizations, supports research and evaluation on implementation efforts, and coaches leaders.