Ted Gutman is the the 2009 Manager of the Year. Gutman exemplifies enthusiasm and is not afraid of change. In contrast, he readily accepts and takes on new challenges. His knowledge of treatment and evidence-based practices, and the relationship of those dynamics to effective supervision, is of the highest degree. He shares this knowledge and works to apply it to the programs that will help offenders succeed. Gutman does an excellent job, not only as a Supervisor at the Burlington Residential Correctional Facility, but in networking with the community and other resources. Those extra efforts have brought benefits to offenders and staff alike. 
 

Mike Baker is the the 2008 Manager of the Year. Passion is just a word to some, but it has been Baker’s way of doing business for 33 years. While some slow down as they approach retirement, Baker spearheaded the biggest cause in the District – policies and procedures. He also made the necessary plans to ensure that the expansion of Ottumwa Residential Correctional Facility includes more than just adding 25 extra beds. Moreover, as the residential manager, Baker has continued to groom and cultivate staff members so that they are ready for higher levels of responsibility. He has done all of this because he truly cares about our District, the employees, the offenders, and our communities.
 

Judy Lauritsen was selected as the 2007 Manager of the Year. The citation on the award read, “Judy has made outstanding contributions to the Department. Even though her role is behind the scenes, she continually shows an ability to lead and to guide. She is a positive influence on staff, colleagues, and everyone else she has contact with. And her willingness to do whatever it takes; always with a kind word and warm smile, makes her a pure joy to work with and to be around. For those reasons, and many more, Judy is the 2007 Manager of the Year."
 

Gary Peitz was recognized as manager/supervisor of the year for his tenacity and patience in effectively dealing with several difficult situations in the last few years. He always has the Department’s mission in focus and always tries to make things better for both employees and residents. Gary has been employed in law enforcement and corrections for the past 24 years. In addition to working as a correctional officer and a correctional counselor at the Iowa State Penitentiary, he also served a one-year stint as a deputy sheriff.  Gary transferred to community corrections as a residential counselor before being promoted to a community treatment coordinator. He has been the residential manager at the Burlington Residential Correctional Facility since 1999. Gary holds an associate of arts degree from Southeastern Community College and a bachelor's degree in criminal justice with a minor in business administration from Northeast Missouri State University.
 

Karen Stewart was selected by her co-workers and supervisors at the Burlington Residential Correctional Facility as Facility Employee of the Year.  Since her career began in 1983, Karen has performed her duties in an exceptional manner, no matter what was asked of her.  She has earned the respect of her co-workers who recognized her with this award.  Karen is an integral part of the success of the facility and the district. Karen is also active in the community coaching volleyball in New London and girls track in Burlington. She and her husband Bill have been married for 25 years and they have two sons, Doug and Kory.