Women in Corrections
The Denise Smith Women in Corrections Breakfast
The Women in Corrections Breakfast is a cherished annual event hosted by the Western
Region Jail Association, dedicated to celebrating and empowering women within the
corrections field. With a focus on camaraderie and professional development, this breakfast
gathering brings together female professionals from across the region to network, share
experiences, and gain inspiration from esteemed guest speakers. This event serves as a
platform to recognize the invaluable contributions of women in corrections and to foster a
supportive community that champions their achievements and advancement within the
field. Each year, attendees eagerly anticipate engaging discussions, insightful presentations,
and meaningful connections that fuel their passion for their work and drive positive change
in the corrections landscape.
Date: TBD 2027
Time: 8:00 a.m. (Please be sure to register for the breakfast to ensure a proper count for meals.)
Speaker: TBD 2027
Past Speakers:
- Sheriff Dr. Antionette V. Irving, City of Richmond, VA – 2026
- Diana Knapp, Director, Jackson County Detention Center in Kansas City, MO – 2025
- Judge Erin deHart, General District Judge for Pulaski and Radford Courts – 2024
- Superintendent Kim Haug, New River Valley Regional Jail – 2023
- Sheriff Vanessa Reese Crawford, Petersburg, VA – 2022
- Marie Vargo, VADOC Warden Ret. – 2019
- Phyllis Randall – 2018
- Captain Cindy Caldwell, Campbell County Sheriff’s Office – 2017
- Major Mandy Lambert, Prince William-Manassas Regional Jail – 2016
