Employees of the Year Named

Commissioner : Homer Bryson

Director of Public Affairs : Joan Heath

Deondrick Clemons of Telfair State Prison and Steven Shierling of Valdosta Probation Honored

FORSYTH, Ga. — The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) honored Deondrick Clemons of Telfair State Prison and Steven Shierling of Valdosta Probation as Employees of the Year at the 11th Annual GDC Awards ceremony on July 7 at State Offices South at Tift College in Forsyth, Ga.

“Steve and Deondrick are both excellent examples of why we honor our employees,” said Commissioner Homer Bryson. “Their dedication to duty, willingness to serve wherever needed and demonstrated compassion make them deserving recipients of this award.”

The Employee of the Year award recipient promotes positive relations with co-workers, offenders, the judiciary, volunteers, partners and the community by continuously displaying courtesy, dignity and respect. 

Deondrick Clemons serves as the Chief Counselor at Telfair State Prison. In addition to his regular duties, he serves as the Security Threat Group Coordinator, Grievance Coordinator, Classification Chairman, PREA Coordinator, debriefing team member, Oversight Committee and duty officer. He provided oversight of the implementation of the Diesel Mechanics program and is also the institutional instructor for Effective Communication Training. In addition to his job responsibilities, he mentors at-risk youth in the local community and surrounding areas. 

Officer Steven Shierling served with the Georgia Department of Corrections until the transfer of Probation Operations and personnel to the new Department of Community Supervision on July 1, 2015.  As the Lead Surveillance Officer in the Valdosta Probation Office/Southern Circuit, he displayed his dedication to the department everyday through his job performance. On September 22, 2014, he rescued a fellow co-worker who attempted to commit suicide while on duty handling the situation with exceptional professionalism. He demonstrates integrity, honesty, and always leads by example.

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.