NHDOC Celebrates Correctional Officers and Employees Week
CONCORD, NH – The New Hampshire Department of Corrections (NHDOC) is proud to join correctional agencies across the country in celebrating Corrections Officers and Professionals Week, which will be observed this year from Sunday, May 4th to Saturday, May 10th, 2025. In recognition of the vital work of corrections staff, Governor Kelly Ayotte has issued an official proclamation declaring this week as Correctional Officers and Employees Week in New Hampshire.
“Our corrections officers and corrections professionals play a vital role in keeping our state safe, and I am proud to recognize their efforts during Correctional Officers and Professionals Week,” said Governor Ayotte. “These men and women work long hours, often without the recognition or gratitude they deserve. We will continue working to ensure our corrections officers and professionals at the New Hampshire Department of Corrections have the resources and backing they need to safely do their jobs.”
Originally established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 to honor the essential contributions of corrections officers, this observance has since expanded to recognize the diverse range of professionals working throughout the corrections system to promote public safety and support rehabilitation. This week highlights the commitment, professionalism, and dedication of those who serve in one of the most challenging roles in public safety. Each day, correctional officers, probation parole officers, administrative staff, healthcare professionals, educators, logistics and many others work together to ensure the safe and secure operation of our facilities, support rehabilitation efforts, and uphold public safety for all New Hampshire residents.
With a dedicated workforce of corrections officers and other employees, the New Hampshire Department of Corrections is deeply grateful for the hard work, resilience, and professionalism demonstrated by its team. Comprised of full-time, part-time, and per diem staff, these individuals are essential to fulfilling the Department’s mission: to reduce recidivism by providing safe, humane supervision and evidence-based rehabilitation to enhance public safety in New Hampshire. Their collective efforts support a balanced approach to corrections—one that promotes accountability, community safety, restorative justice and opportunities for positive change.
U.S. News has ranked New Hampshire’s corrections system #1 in the nation—a recognition we can all be proud of. Over the past seven years, the Department has reduced returns to incarceration by 7%, and compared to 2009, when the recidivism rate was 51.9%, we’ve achieved an overall reduction of 11.7%.
"Corrections Officers and our diverse team of corrections professionals may not be highly visible to the public due to their working environment, but the positive impact of their service is far-reaching," said Commissioner Helen Hanks. “These professionals improve families, communities, and public safety as agents of change and stewards of public trust. This week provides an important opportunity to express our gratitude and to honor their courage and heroism. They play a vital role in strengthening our State."
Throughout the week, the Department will hold a variety of events and activities across its facilities to show appreciation for employees’ invaluable service and dedication. We extend our sincerest appreciation to the loved ones who support our employees, as this is a challenging and complex profession.
The NHDOC includes four facilities, three transitional housing units, one transitional work center, six divisions, and eleven probation parole district offices. For more information about the New Hampshire Department of Corrections and career opportunities, please visit www.corrections.nh.gov
