Tiffany Bishop Horizon Award Winner Named

Commissioner : Brian Owens

Director of Public Affairs : Joan Heath

Michael Langford Honored

FORSYTH - Ga. - The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) presented Michael Langford of the Gainesville Probation Office with the Tiffany Bishop Horizon Memorial Award at the Tenth Annual GDC Awards ceremony on Tuesday, June 24, 2014 at the State Offices South at Tift College in Forsyth, Georgia.

"Michael has grown tremendously as a leader in his short time with the Department," said Commissioner Brian Owens. "We are extremely proud to honor him with the Tiffany Bishop Horizon Award."

The Tiffany Bishop Horizon Award was created to honor the memory of Probation Officer Tiffany Bishop of the Rome Probation Office. Officer Bishop was beginning her career with the Department when she was tragically taken from us on August 31, 2011. The award sets out to honor her dedication to her job and her community, and the lasting effect her bright spirit and determination had on those around her in always going above and beyond the call of duty, and always inspiring others to be the best they can be.

In 2012, Officer Langford was promoted to Probation Officer II (PO II) at the Gainesville Probation Office. During his time as a PO II, he has established relationships with his peers and assumed a leadership role as mentor. Officer Langford has a knack for looking at an undesirable situation through a positive lens.

Several key officials were on hand for the ceremony, which was attended by more than 200 guests. Making the award presentation with the Commissioner were Assistant Commissioner Timothy C. Ward, Board of Corrections Vice Chair Rose Williams, and special guest speakers Mercer University Athletic Director Jim Cole and Mercer University Men's Basketball Head Coach Bob Hoffman.

The GDC has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 55,000 state prisoners and more than 160,000 probationers. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 12,000 employees.

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