Lieutenant Colonel Elsie Judon, MS, BSW, CCHP, director of operations in the department of detention at the Broward Sheriff’s Office in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., is the new American Jail Association liaison to the NCCHC Board of Representatives.

Judon, the first woman of color to be elected first vice president of the AJA, brings more than 25 years of experience in correctional operations and administrative management to her new role on the board. She is an active participant in community program public safety initiatives and highly experienced in specialized unit management. She is also a Certified Correctional Health Professional (CCHP) through NCCHC, a Certified Jail Manager (CJ) through AJA, and a certified general instructor and trainer.

She received a Master of Science in forensic psychology from Nova Southeastern University and a bachelor’s degree in social work from Florida Atlantic University.

“It is a privilege to represent the American Jail Association on the NCCHC board of representatives,” she said. “I am honored to help bridge two essential missions: advancing correctional leadership and professional growth, and advocating for quality health care in jails, prisons, and juvenile facilities.

“AJA’s commitment to developing informed, effective leaders complements NCCHC’s vital work in setting standards of care. I see tremendous value in collaborating with NCCHC to promote healthier, more effectively managed jail communities. Together, we can elevate both the professionals who lead our facilities and the well-being of those in our custody.”

She replaces former AJA liaison Oscar Aviles, CJM, CCE, CCHP, deputy county administrator of Hudson County (NJ), who completed his term on the NCCHC board. He has joined the board of NCCHC Resources, the organization’s consulting subsidiary.