Correctional Program Specialist
National Institute of Corrections - Jails Division
Panda J. Adkins joined the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) as a Correctional Program Specialist in December 2012. Ms. Adkins currently manages the National Sheriff’s Institute Expansion Initiative for NIC. The National Sheriffs’ Institute (NSI) is a federal training initiative solely designed for the nation’s Sheriffs. The NSI currently includes courses on Leadership and Jail Administration as well as technical assistance and information services. Her work with NIC also includes the Strategic Inmate Management (SIM) Initiative to provide training and technical assistance on effectively managing inmate behavior, the Correctional Communication Administrators training, and the Human Capital Investment Initiative that is currently under development.
Ms. Adkins began her career in Corrections with the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office in Nashville, Tennessee, as a correctional officer in 1997. She also served as a case manager and work release manager. During her tenure as the Work Release Manager, Ms. Adkins was part of the management team who opened the agency’s first direct supervision facility. She was responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of the division, staff, incarcerated population, and case management services. She was also responsible for building and sustaining community partnerships to include working relationships with employers and community stakeholders.
Additionally, Ms. Adkins was an adjunct instructor in the Criminal Justice Department of Tennessee State University, her undergraduate alma mater, from 2008 through 2012. She has also made numerous presentations at national conferences on correctional and leadership topics. Panda also served as an auditor for the American Correctional Association prior to transitioning to NIC. Ms. Adkins held her Certified Jail Manager’s certification through the American Jail Association until accepting a permanent position with NIC. Ms. Adkins earned a Bachelors’ degree in Criminal Justice and Master of Science degree with an emphasis on Public Service Management.
Disclosure information not submitted.
Tuesday, May 23, 2023
2:15 PM – 3:45 PM