2014 Probation Supervisor of the Year Named

Commissioner : Homer Bryson

Director of Public Affairs : Joan Heath

Melissa Tanner of the Gainesville Probation Office Honored

FORSYTH, Ga. - The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) honored Melissa Tanner of the Gainesville Probation Office as Probation Supervisor of the Year at the 11th Annual GDC Awards ceremony on July 7 at State Offices South at Tift College in Forsyth, Ga.

“Melissa’s perseverance and committed service to the Department what make her such an outstanding leader,” said Commissioner Homer Bryson. “We wish her well in her endeavors with the Department of Community Supervision.”

The Probation Supervisor of the Year award is presented to a supervisor who promotes positive relations with probation officers, the local judiciary, local law enforcement, treatment programs and community. It is awarded to a supervisor who exemplifies leadership by always supporting the circuit’s missions. 

Tanner dedicated over 29 years of selfless service to the Department, most recently serving as a Probation Officer III in the Gainesville Probation Office until June 30, 2015, when she transferred to the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, where she still serves in this capacity. She is an effective leader, an accomplished manager, and a supportive coach. She sets the example of hard work and dedication to the mission of the Department. Tanner’s knowledge of the job responsibilities of her staff and their effect on the efficiency of the delivery of the mission makes her an accomplished manager. Her ability to listen to her team members in an effort to learn their viewpoints, ideas, and motives makes her a supportive coach.

Several key officials were on hand for the ceremony, which was attended by more than 200 guests. Making the award presentation with Commissioner Homer Bryson were Assistant Commissioner of Administration & Finance Scott Poitevint, Assistant Commissioner of Facilities Division Timothy C. Ward, and Board of Corrections Chair Rose Williams.

The GDC has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 55,000 state prisoners. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 10,500 employees.

For more information on the GDC call 478-992-5247 or visit https://gdc.georgia.gov.