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Preserving the Spirit of the Compact: Recognizing Extraordinary Contributions

Preserving the “Spirit of the Compact" is a fundamental aspect of the Commission’s mission to serve communities, improve outcomes and ensure public safety. This statement encompasses the dedication to go beyond conventional expectations using innovative solutions to benefit the greater good. The Spirit of the Compact is present when individuals demonstrate exceptional service that surpasses the requirements and norms of their respective positions.

Their invaluable efforts have led to:

  1. Enhanced Collaboration: These individuals have demonstrated exceptional teamwork, actively engaging with their colleagues and counterparts. They foster open dialogue and have contributed significantly to the Commission’s mission.
  2. Innovative Problem-Solving: Through their resourcefulness and innovative thinking, they have found unique solutions to complex challenges. Their efforts paved the way for improved practices and enhanced outcomes.
  3. Exemplary Leadership: These individuals have demonstrated exemplary leadership qualities by taking charge when needed and motivating those around them. They lead by example and possess a strong commitment to preserving the integrity of the Compact and the individuals it serves.

Acknowledging these unsung heroes is crucial not only for recognizing their efforts but also for inspiring others to strive for excellence within their roles. If you know of someone who, in a specific instance, exhibited exceptional dedication and effort beyond the requirements of their role, we encourage you to share their story with us.

Please use the Spirt of the Compact Nomination Form to provide brief details of the event or situation that highlights the individual's extraordinary service. Nominations are welcome from any member of the ICAOS community.

(The Commission will recognize one individual nominated in the year at the Annual Business Meeting. Their travel and attendance at the ABM will be covered by the Commission. Additionally, selected nominations may be featured in the Commission’s newsletter and other publications dedicated to promoting best practices within the compact community.)

Nomination criteria:

  1. The person being nominated must be a field officer, Compact Office staff member or stakeholder. (Commissioners and DCAs are not eligible.)
  2. Written justification that focuses on a particular instance where the nominee went “above and beyond to reach the best solution” including contributions that support the nomination.

View Past Recognitions

Recent Recognitions

2024

Interstate Compact Supervisor/Community Corrections Agent
I am honored to nominate Sylvia Larson for the Spirit of the Compact Award. Sylvia not only is extremely knowledgeable of the ICAOS rules and procedures, she gives her time and talents to others at the ND DOCR. Sylvia is keenly skilled at coming up with solutions to issues that not only comply with ICAOS rules, but doing so with a goal in mind and the resources needed to accomplish that goal. An example is offering alternative solutions to violations that require retaking to ensure public safety, but also making efficient use of resources. Sylvia takes time to communicate with receiving state staff and the defendant to clearly explain the situation, explore solutions, and implement the solution that is most effective. Sylvia is firm and fair when it comes to compact deadlines and ensures the staff she supports is following through with needed tasks. When there is an ICAOS issue or question, Sylvia is usually the first person for many staff to lean on for help. I appreciate Sylvia immensely and enthusiastically nominate her for the Spirit of the Compact Award.
Respectfully,
Tom Erhardt
Chief Parole/Probation Officer
North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
Nominated By: Tom Erhardt

2025

Compact Office member - Probation
I have had the privilege of working with Donna Reed for a number of years now through our respective Compact Offices. Donna is my lead point of contact with the Massachusetts Probation Interstate Office as the Probation DCA is regularly tasked to other duties outside of the Compact. Donna is always ready and willing to assist with issues that arise on cases. She continually has a terrific attitude and is truly the "knowledge base" for Interstate Compact matters within Massachusetts Probation.

I want to highlight one (of many) incidents where Donna graciously dropped what she was working on to assist me and Maine Probation Officers.

On December 12, 2024, Maine Probation Officers were sent to a court outside of Boston to extradite a client, wanted on a Maine Interstate Probation warrant. The client was on probation for Domestic Violence Assault and had absconded over 2 years previous. The Officers were fully credentialed and had all required paperwork with them. Upon appearing in the courtroom, the Judge told the Maine Probation Officers that she was not going to release the client to their custody as her experience was that only the Maine State Police extradited clients on Maine warrants. The Maine Probation Officers advised the Judge that they have extradited numerous clients on Probation warrants over the years and that Maine Probation does in fact extradite its own clients, not the Maine State Police. The Judge passed on the case and continued with the docket list.

The Judge revisited this case 1 hour 45 minutes later at the end of the docket list, stated that she needed to research the matter, and adjourned the Courtroom. At that time, one of the Maine Probation Officers called me up to advise what was transpiring in the Court. The Officer further advised that they believed the Judge was not going to allow them to extradite the client based on everything they witnessed in the Courtroom. Once I had the information, I hung up and called Donna to inform of the situation. Donna listened to the information I provided and told me she would contact the Court to advise them that the Maine Probation Officers had the right under Compact Rules to extradite the client.

In less than 20 minutes, Donna had made contact with Massachusetts Probation Officers based in the Courthouse. She explained the situation and what she needed the Massachusetts Probation Officers to do. One of those Officers went into the Judge's chamber to advise that the Maine Probation Officers were legally allowed to be the State of Maine's representatives to return the client to Maine. The Judge appeared on the bench again shortly thereafter and allowed the Maine Probation Officer to take possession of the client to return him to Maine.

This outcome was only obtained by Donna Reed being willing to drop what she was doing and work on finding a remedy to a problem that was unfolding. Through her willingness to do this, Maine Probation was able to leave with the client and not waste a day of travel to Massachusetts without bringing the client back. A dangerous client was safely returned to Maine and remanded to custody to await further probation violation proceedings. This was all due to Donna's willingness to assist. This is one of many examples that I experience regularly with Donna. She is always one to help and solve issues and this helps to make the Compact run as efficiently as possible between our states. I am appreciative of Donna's dedication to the Interstate Compact and of her continually trying to do the right thing when dealing with Compact matters.
Nominated By: Denis Clark
Probation Officer
Nebraska would like to nominate Therese Giglia of Nebraska Probation for the Spirit of the Compact Award. Her unwavering dedication, innovative thinking, and exceptional leadership in the realm of interstate compact operations have significantly elevated the efficiency and effectiveness of Nebraska's largest Probation district (District 4A) processes and beyond.

Therese has demonstrated unparalleled initiative by developing a comprehensive tracking system for every interstate compact client assigned to her probation district. This system ensures that no case detail is overlooked and that every client’s needs are addressed in a timely manner.
In addition to her meticulous organizational skills, Therese has fostered an outstanding working relationship with the Douglas County Attorney’s Office. Her collaborative approach has streamlined the approval process for interstate transfer-out cases, reducing delays and ensuring clients receive timely resolutions.

As the primary point person for all things interstate compact in District 4A, Therese is an invaluable resource for her colleagues. She regularly sends reminders to probation officers about critical due dates for tasks such as transfer replies and case closures, significantly improving Nebraska's compliance with interstate compact requirements.

Moreover, Therese’s commitment to supporting her peers extends beyond her district. She has created comprehensive "how-to" guides and step-by-step instructions for completing tasks in ICOTS, which have been shared with other probation districts across the state. These tools have not only enhanced efficiency but also standardized practices statewide, setting a high benchmark for operational excellence.

Therese embodies the spirit of teamwork, innovation, and service excellence that the Spirit of the Compact Award seeks to recognize. Her dedication to ensuring compliance, streamlining processes, and supporting her colleagues has made her an indispensable asset to Nebraska Probation and a shining example of professional excellence.

I wholeheartedly endorse Senior Probation Officer Therese Giglia for this prestigious award, confident that her contributions have had a profound and lasting impact on Nebraska’s probation system and interstate compact operations.

Nominated By: Jacey R Rader
Compact Parole Officer II
I don't have enough words to adequately explain all that Cynthia has been to Kansas Interstate Compact. Cynthia has been with KS ICU since 2003. That longevity speaks for itself. Her hard work and dedication are unmatched by anyone that I've worked alongside before. When I began my career with Kansas compact as the DCA in October of 2022 our office experienced an 80% staff turnover. With only 4 compact staff members at the time including myself (DCA) due to vacancies we often found ourselves operating with only 3 staff total, Cindy graciously took time to train all new staff as well as myself as the new DCA, while also striving relentlessly to complete her own tasks and duties. Cindy always shows a willingness to help others. Taking phone calls and spending significant time explaining the rules of the compact, or clarifying procedures or helping users navigate the ICOTS system. Her attitude has always been one of willingness to help others with considerable patience and respect. In our most stressful and difficult times I have never witnessed Cindy allow it to get the best of her. Her positive, uplifting and teamwork mentality has never waiver weather she is working with other states' compact offices to come up with a resolution to a pressing issue, working with our local ICOTS case managers or working alongside her co-workers within our compact unit. Cindy has been a pillar for our community, as well as Kansas compact and she epitomizes the Spirit of the Compact. After working for compact for over 20 years, Cindy will be retiring in 2025 and what better way to show our appreciation for all that she has done. Many times she has been overlooked for local recognitions within our organization. I believe this is due to a lack of understanding of what all goes into reviewing over 1000 transfers requests and reporting instructions per year and getting them assigned to local agencies within a deadline, or making sure that the return reporting instructions are completed properly and every step is followed per the rules, or having the knowledge to explain the process to family members, supervised individuals, or stakeholder. I have no doubt that Cindy's departure for this work will not only have an impact on our office but also how efficiently the state of Kansas is able to work with other states as well as our clients. As a senior officer, Cindy's retirement will mean that 100% of Kansas Interstate compact staff will now have less than 3 years experience. I would like to take the opportunity to say "Thank you" to Cindy and honor her with this prestigious award. I hope that I am lucky enough to hire someone else like her. Thank you for your consideration.
Nominated By: Fareeda Washington
Director of Interstate Compact Compliance
I am pleased to nominate Renita Wright for the Spirit of the Compact Award. Throughout her remarkable 25-year tenure with the Indiana Office of Court Services, Renita has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the Interstate Compact's principles and mission.

Since joining the office in June 1998, Renita has emerged as an invaluable leader within the state of Indiana and a passionate champion for the Interstate Compact's mission. Her dedication extends beyond merely fulfilling her duties – she has become a powerful voice within the Indiana Office of Court Services, consistently reminding colleagues of the Compact's vital role in promoting public safety and the successful rehabilitation of supervised individuals.

What truly sets Renita apart is her ability to embody the collaborative spirit at the heart of the Interstate Compact. This personal touch and her professional expertise have made her particularly effective in building the strong interstate relationships crucial to the Compact's success.

Renita's long-standing service has been marked by her exceptional ability to navigate complex cases while focusing on the Compact's core public safety mission and supervising individuals' success. Her institutional knowledge, gained over more than two decades of service, has proven invaluable in training new staff and providing guidance to partner agencies throughout Indiana.

As a vocal advocate for the Compact's importance, Renita has consistently demonstrated her understanding that each case represents not just a file number but an opportunity to enhance public safety and support successful rehabilitation. Her dedication to these principles has inspired countless colleagues and helped strengthen the interstate cooperation vital to our shared mission.
Nominated By: Chris Biehn
Administrative Programs Officer II/Hearing Officer
It is my pleasure to nominate Tom Verplank for the Spirit of the Compact Award. Mr. Verplank is an Administrative Programs Officer II, overseeing outgoing Interstate Compact Parole cases. He is also the subject matter expert within the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services Community Supervision Services on probable cause hearings serving as the agency’s Hearing Officer. As such, he conducts these hearings for supervised individuals the same as is done for our own instate clients. He is the individual that prepares the written report/documentation that accompanies Violation Reports to the sending state as well as Progress Reports in those cases in which there are new pending charges. He is also the individual that conducts the courtesy probable cause hearing upon request by the sending state in cases of abscond when the individual is apprehended in Nebraska. In the role of Hearing Officer, Mr. Verplank also assists in training new officers and other staff on the probable cause hearing process, having recently joined one of our Specialized Parole Officers and me in presenting this training to staff. He also serves on the Staff Desk Reference Work Group, a work group that was reformed several years ago to revise and create new checklists and flow charts to assist our colleagues who supervise Compact clients and to assist in navigating the Interstate Compact Offender Tracking System (ICOTS). In 2024, the ICAOS Training, Education & PR Committee on which I serve, was tasked to provide feedback on the Hearing Officer’s Guide, including some questions for the FAQ section that were being incorporated. Due to his expertise, at my request Mr. Verplank reviewed the documents and provided feedback which was shared with the National Office and Chair of the ICAOS Training Committee. He also reviewed the revised version that resulted from the feedback received from Committee members; publication of the revised/updated guide was announced and made available by the Commission in July 2024. Mr. Verplank is well versed in Compact matters, having previously served as backup in my absence. With his 40+ years of experience, having also served as a Parole Officer, Sex Offender Specialized Parole Officer, and Supervisor over field Parole Officers and now some of our Administrative Support staff, he has a wealth of knowledge and experience and is always willing to share what he knows with others. His dedication to public safety and the exemplary leadership he displays is demonstrated through his work with the Compact. His expertise is invaluable to those of us who work with him daily, and he is deserving of recognition for what he has done and continues to do in his work with the Compact.
Nominated By: Sally Reinhardt-Stewart
Probation and Parole Agent - Interstate Compact Specialist
I am honored to nominate Agent Janilee Wolff for the Spirit of the Compact award. Janilee has been Probation and Parole Agent in WI since 2000, and began specializing in Interstate Compact cases in 2002 - her tenure of working with Interstate Compact cases is as long as the modern Compact has been in place, and her dedication to the mission of the Compact hasn't waivered. Janilee is recognized by her colleagues and supervisors as resource for all things Interstate Compact. She demonstrates exceptional knowledge and often shares complex or unusual Interstate Compact scenarios with her co-workers and supervisors which has helped all field staff expand their knowledge base, undoubtedly having a positive ripple effect for clients across our state, and those leaving to be supervised out of state. She frequently volunteers to train new staff, and she is regularly involved in workgroups to improve our intrastate Interstate Compact processes. Janilee is also a resource for Compact Office staff. She is quick to advise on field processes and how they correspond to Interstate Compact rules, assisting in coming up with positive solutions to challenging situations. She has an upbeat energy that fosters a positive environment for colleagues, stakeholders, and supervised individuals. After a supervised individual is accepted to transfer to WI, Janilee works closely with them to ensure their stability. She is responsive to their treatment needs. Additionally, she thoroughly investigates supervised individuals' violations and applies graduated accountability responses and interventions on a case by case basis to ensure victim and public safety. With over two decades of expertise and dedication, she strikes the balance between safe practices and effective supervision, embodying the spirit of the Compact.
Nominated By: Brenna Kojis
Parole Officer
Officer Greg Frankart exemplified the true spirit of interstate collaboration and commitment to rehabilitation through his exceptional handling of a complex supervision case involving an individual from Indiana.

While supervising the individual, who had absconded from Indiana, Officer Frankart quickly responded to the situation following the individual's arrest on both the Indiana warrant and new Ohio charges. He diligently completed the necessary probable cause process, even as the supervisee remained in Ohio navigating multiple new charges across two counties.

As the final Ohio charge neared resolution, the presiding judge expressed interest in releasing the supervisee to a treatment program in lieu of continued incarceration. However, the outstanding Indiana warrant posed a barrier. In response, both Indiana and Ohio agreed to continue supervision collaboratively and waived the retake requirement.

Upon being informed of this decision, Officer Frankart demonstrated exceptional initiative. Without being asked, he proactively contacted the local probation department and treatment facility to gather current information on the supervisee. He ensured the Ohio case was promptly re-opened and maintained open, effective communication with Indiana authorities regarding the individual’s status.

Officer Frankart’s actions went above and beyond routine duty. His ability to recognize and respond to the needs of the individual, while balancing interstate cooperation and community interests, was seamless and unwavering. He did not view this as just another "out-of-state case," but instead showed compassion, professionalism, and a deep understanding of the Compact's mission.

His initiative, communication, and commitment to rehabilitation reflect the highest standards of the Interstate Compact and make him an outstanding candidate for the Spirit of the Compact Award.
Nominated By: Suzanne Brooks