CHARLESTON, SC – AZDOC director Dora Schriro received the state's first Award for Distinguished Service to State Government since the National Governors Association (NGA) established the honor in 1976.

Arizona governor Janet Napolitano made the presentation at the NGA's 98th annual meeting held in Charleston, South Carolina earlier this month. Napolitano praised the dramatic improvement of the AZDOC since Schriro took the helm in 2003.

Among a long list of accolades, Schriro conducted an extensive survey of the AZDOC in less than three years.  Taking cues from COs, inmates, state legislature and crime victims, Schriro found ways to improve many aspects of the system.

"The director has shown her dedication to creating a secure workplace for corrections officers, while at the same time understanding that inmates – many of whom will complete their sentences and return to the workforce – can learn and develop skills necessary to find a job when they're released," Napolitano said.

Schriro implemented her Parallel Universe program because 96 percent of Arizona's inmate population will eventually re-enter the workforce. The program prepares offenders by creating a work environment that is similar to that of the outside world behind prison walls. 

In the academic year prior to Schriro's arrival, 791 inmates obtained their GED.  After Schriro's leadership that number almost doubled, and in 2005, 3,125 degrees were awarded.

Schriro's efforts toward recruiting and retaining experienced staff also led to the approval of a much needed $3,000 pay raise for COs.