Parallel Workshops
Correctional systems worldwide are facing increasing complexity, particularly in women’s prisons, where trauma, high needs, and operational pressures require more responsive, humane, and gender-informed approaches. With many jurisdictions operating only one women’s facility, leaders often feel isolated in advancing reform. Addressing these challenges calls for both evidence-informed strategies and new models of collaboration across systems.
This panel introduces the Leadership Exchange for Action and Dignity in Women’s Prisons (LEAD), an Amend Global Learning and Action Network connecting leaders from Australia, Northern Ireland, Norway, Scotland, and multiple U.S. states. The session will present LEAD’s four-part model: investing in leaders, innovating locally, implementing sustainable change, and disseminating practical solutions to the field. Through a structured, implementation science-informed approach, participants engage in peer mentorship, shared problem-solving, and applied learning. Panelists will highlight early examples of change, including reductions in restrictive practices and innovations in working with women with complex needs, while reflecting on key leadership skills and strategies needed to navigate operational constraints and advance women’s prison reform. It will demonstrate how international partnerships can move beyond knowledge exchange to support real-world improvements, strengthen operational capacity, and advance global correctional practice.
Richard Taylor is the Governor in Charge of Hydebank Wood College and Women’s Prison. Under his leadership, Hydebank Wood has undergone a significant transformation and is now internationally recognized for innovative, humane correctional practice. In 2024, it received top marks across all areas in a full, unannounced inspection of both the women’s and young men’s facilities, and in 2025, it was awarded the International Corrections and Prisons Association’s Correctional Excellence Award.
Richard joined the Northern Ireland Prison Service in 1988 and has worked across all security levels, progressing through roles from Prison Officer to Governor in Charge. His leadership roles have included serving as Governor of the Prison Service College, overseeing officer training, and as Governor in Charge of Magilligan Prison. He holds a master’s degree in Human Resource Management from the University of Ulster.
His work has been widely recognized, including through a Butler Trust Award for outstanding contribution to the care of people in custody and a U.S. State Department Professional Fellowship focused on the rule of law, corrections, and reintegration. He also serves as a Trustee and Director of Newforge Community Development Trust, supporting community cohesion and peacebuilding in Northern Ireland. In 2025, he was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for public service.
Chrissy Sobolik is a Deputy Warden at the Heart River Correctional Center. She has worked for the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for 20 years, including 15 years on the juvenile side with females and the last 5 years with the adult women’s population. As a correctional leader, she is committed to building a safer, more responsive, and rehabilitative environment for incarcerated women. With over 20 years of experience in corrections, she has developed a leadership approach grounded in accountability, respect, and evidence-based practices. Chrissy encourages those around her to use a person-centered approach rather than traditional prison models designed for men.
In her role as Deputy Warden, Chrissy prioritizes creating a facility culture that recognizes and addresses the unique needs of women in custody, as well as an environment for staff to work in that fosters safety and motivates them to help those in their care. Chrissy strongly believes in building a culture of healthy relationships with both staff and residents as the foundation of the facility.
