By Matthew Estes, Communications Director
Updated May 4, 2023
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – On Wednesday, April 26, 10 participants from the Huntsville Day Reporting Center graduated from the program, celebrated by a commencement ceremony and luncheon at Calhoun Community College’s Huntsville Campus. With a graduation location right across from the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, these graduates shine bright like stars.
After a processional, Huntsville DRC Administrator Arthur Mauldin acknowledged all guests for coming to support the graduates and thanked individuals representing community partners.
“A couple of participants shared testimonies about their journeys to recovery,” said Day Reporting Center District Manager Stephanie Stewart. “We certainly appreciate their willingness and courage to share their heartfelt personal experiences. It’s their life-changing experiences that inspire us to continue the work we’re doing through the DRC program.”
Crisis Service of North Alabama Volunteer Coordinator Heather Kilgore was the keynote speaker, delivering an inspiring message about believing in yourself when no one else will. Diplomas were presented by Huntsville Day Reporting Center Probation and Parole Officers Chayla Gildersleeve and Jarrett White.
Two DRC Graduates, Marandez Lacy and Shawn Walker, spoke about the life-changing treatment received in the program and recent accomplishments. Afterward, Director Cam Ward delivered a closing message of encouragement, wishing the graduates a successful future.
The Bureau gratefully acknowledges Calhoun Community College and J.F. Ingram State Technical College, along with all Community Partners, for their involvement in the DRC program and this event. Special thanks to Terry Bennett and the Huntsville Dream Center for providing food for the event. Additional partners included: Alabama A&M University, Alabama Community College System, Alabama Department of Human Resources, Alabama Non-Violent Offenders Organization, AltaPointe Health Services, Capshaw Baptist Church, Greater Opportunities through Adult Learning, Meadow Drive Baptist Church, National Children’s Advocacy Center, North Alabama Homebuilding Academy, R.O.S.S., Rock Family Worship, The Salvation Army, THRIVE and WellStone Behavioral Health.
DRCs provide counseling, educational training and supervision for probationers and parolees. With a focus on employment assistance, substance abuse treatment, mental health, and cognitive restructuring needs, DRC staff is committed to reducing recidivism rates and improving public safety through behavior change. Currently, full Day Reporting Centers are located in Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery, and Tuscaloosa. Day Reporting Center Lites, condensed versions of DRCs offering similar treatment, are located in Albertville, Bay Minette, Fort Payne, Opelika and Jasper.
Director Cam Ward with Huntsville DRC graduates.
Huntsville DRC graduates.
Terry Bennett of the Huntsville Dream Center providing food for the event.
Huntsville DRC Administrator Arthur Mauldin.
Officer Chayla Gildersleeve giving a DRC graduate her certificate.
DRC graduate Shawn Walker presenting.
Probation and Parole Officers Jarrett White (left) and Chayla Gildersleeve.