New Vice President and Board Members Appointed to ICPA
Paul Geurts - Vice-President, ICPA
After serving for many years on the Board, Paul will be a valuable addition to the ICPA leadership team. Paul Geurts has an extensive background in the field of corrections, with over three decades of experience. He started his career in 1989 and has worked in various leadership positions, including serving as the Prison Director for juveniles, male and female inmates. Paul has also been actively involved in international cooperation, developing programs with prison systems in Turkey, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Nigeria.
"I would like to support the ICPA in its development towards a more balanced global network in which all actors active in the correctional and prisons environment can meet, taking in account the existing economic and cultural differences in the world".
Kathleen Van De Vijver - Board Member, ICPA
Kathleen Van De Vijver brings a wealth of experience in corrections to her role as a Board Member of the ICPA. With a career spanning over two decades, Kathleen has served as a parole officer and prison governor before joining the headquarters as a spokesperson. She has actively participated in ICPA conferences and has been involved in international projects. Kathleen's commitment to global policies in corrections and her experience in Belgium make her a valuable asset to the ICPA board.
“It is an honour to help reflect with the ICPA board on global policies in corrections. We globally face major challenges such as humane detention, public opinion on inmates, healthcare and ageing population. I would like to contribute from my experience in Belgium.”
Heidi Washington - Board Member, ICPA
Heidi E. Washington has been appointed as a Board Member of the ICPA. With her exceptional leadership skills, Heidi has been serving as the Director of the Michigan Department of Corrections since 2015. She has played a pivotal role in overseeing the administration of Michigan's correctional system and managing a substantial budget. Heidi's visionary initiatives, such as the Vocational Village, have earned her recognition and acclaim in the field of corrections. Her expertise and dedication will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the ICPA.
“I am honored to be selected to serve amongst such a diverse and esteemed group of correctional professionals. As a Board Member I hope to cultivate relationships the promote and foster greater collaboration and education among countries and especially expanding US participation in ICPA.”
Rob Jeffreys - Board Member, ICPA
Rob Jeffreys, a nationally recognized criminal justice expert, has been appointed as a Board Member of the ICPA. With over two decades of correctional experience, including his recent role as the Director of the Illinois Department of Corrections, Rob brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the organization. His expertise in using research and data to drive decision-making and improve outcomes will be instrumental in advancing the mission of the ICPA.
“I am pleased to serve as a member of ICPA leadership. Drawing on my roles as a board member of the ICPA North American Chapter and incoming president of the Correctional Leaders Association (CLA), I will focus efforts on the global needs of ICPA’s members, fostering collaboration and advancing ICPA principles and values in North America and around the globe. As director of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, I look forward to integrating the important work we are doing at ICPA with my team here in Nebraska. We continue to make significant progress in our agency, and learning from and collaborating with organizations across the globe who are doing tremendous work in the field of corrections only strengthens our systems. I am humbly honored and looking forward to serving.”
We extend our warmest congratulations to the newly appointed Vice President and Board Members. Their diverse backgrounds, expertise, and commitment to the field of corrections will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and success of the ICPA.For more information about the ICPA and its leadership team, please visit here.