Michigan Department of Corrections is set to launch the L.E.A.D. Academy this fall, a four-phase leadership development program created with Michigan State University as part of the Safe Prisons Initiative. The program—built around communication, emotional int
LANSING, Mich. — This fall, the Michigan Department of Corrections plans to start training its next leaders long before they’re put in front of the toughest decisions.
The department is launching the L.E.A.D. Academy, a new leadership development program set to begin this fall as part of MDOC’s Safe Prisons Initiative. The program’s name is built into its mission: Learn Today, Empower Tomorrow, Aspire Beyond, Develop a Legacy.
MDOC officials describe L.E.A.D. Academy as a four-phase leadership development pathway designed to support employee growth at every stage of a career. Its goal is to advance training and staff support goals by preparing employees to lead “with skill, integrity and professionalism.”
“We are constantly evolving. and it is more important than ever that we are supporting our emerging leaders in a way that will create change-makers and thought-leaders in the correctional field. ” MDOC Director Heidi E. Washington said. “Well-trained professional staff create safe facilities by stepping above the status quo to challenge themselves. and those around them. to go above and beyond.”.
The curriculum was developed through a partnership with Michigan State University. The program focuses on leadership principles applied specifically to the corrections environment. with an emphasis on daily conduct. communication. presence. and professionalism—factors MDOC says can influence others and contribute to safer facilities.
“The curriculum is designed to help participants develop practical leadership skills rooted in communication. emotional intelligence. professionalism. and ethical decision-making. ” said Vivian Aranda-Hughes. an assistant professor in MSU’s School of Criminal Justice. “We are excited to support a program that invests in people and recognizes that leadership is demonstrated through the choices. actions. and influence individuals bring to their work every day.”.
Applicants for the L.E.A.D. Academy will be selected through a formal review process after applying for the program. To be eligible. applicants must meet specific requirements: one year of MDOC employment. attainment of satisfactory status during the initial probationary period. and full commitment to the program. including assignments outside the classroom.
For MDOC, the program is not meant to sit on a shelf. Officials say it is a key component of Michigan’s Safe Prisons Initiative, which was launched in March to improve safety and security across MDOC’s 26 prisons. More information about MDOC’s Safe Prisons Initiative can be found online.
Michigan Department of Corrections MDOC L.E.A.D. Academy Safe Prisons Initiative leadership development Heidi E. Washington Michigan State University criminal justice
So it’s like a leadership camp? Great… do they still get overtime too?
Safe Prisons Initiative sounds nice but I don’t trust it. They should fix the staffing shortages first not “emotional intelligence” training. Half the stuff in here feels like PR.
Wait, I thought Michigan State University was against prison stuff or whatever, guess not. Also “Learn Today, Empower Tomorrow” sounds like a slogan for a podcast. Does this actually change anything on the units or just make them talk better?
I read “four-phase” and immediately assumed it’s gonna turn into another bureaucracy thing where only the favorites get picked. And emotional intelligence… so they’re gonna be nice to inmates? lol good luck. How are they measuring “integrity and professionalism” anyway? Seems vague.