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A Message from Commissioner Lloyd Arnold
I am honored and excited to step into the role of Commissioner for the Department of Correction. It is a privilege to lead a team with a proven legacy of success under the leadership of Commissioner Reagle and Commissioner Carter. Their dedication and the many wins they have achieved have set a strong foundation for our future. I am deeply grateful for their contributions and look forward to building upon their achievements.
As we move forward together, my leadership approach will center on strategic leadership with a people-first mindset. This means prioritizing the well-being, growth, and success of every individual — both those in our care and our dedicated staff. Our work is built on human connections; and by fostering a supportive, collaborative environment, we can achieve even greater success.
To align with this vision, we are making thoughtful adjustments to our leadership structure at Central Office. These changes are designed to enhance our responsiveness, strengthen communication, and better position us as a resource and partner to our facilities, field offices, downtown stakeholders, and all who rely on our services.
I am excited to share some key leadership changes that will strengthen our commitment to excellence and collaboration within the Department of Correction. These individuals bring a wealth of experience, deep institutional knowledge, and a passion for serving our staff, those in our care, and our broader communities.
Jim Basinger will serve as Chief of Staff. With 34 years of experience in corrections, Jim is a respected leader and a trusted friend to many across the Department. His insight and leadership will be invaluable as we move forward together.
Julie Stout will step into the role of Deputy Commissioner of Operations. Julie’s impressive career includes more than forty years with the agency and 17 years as Warden at Rockville. Her experience and operational expertise will be key to advancing our mission.
Chris Blessinger has been appointed Deputy Commissioner of Administration and Programs. With 24 years of leadership experience across various roles, Chris brings a comprehensive understanding of both policy and people-centered solutions.
Annie Goeller will be our new Chief Communications Officer. Annie has spent four years with the agency and brings 15 years of media relations experience. Her communication skills will enhance our engagement with both internal and external stakeholders.
Lindsey Ellison will lead Correctional Industries as Chief Operating Officer, bringing over 15 years of experience in operations and strategic leadership.
I encourage open dialogue and collaboration across all levels of the department. My door is always open, and I urge you to reach out with ideas, feedback, or if there’s ever a way I can be of help. Together, we will continue to drive positive change and create an environment where everyone — staff, stakeholders, and those we serve — can thrive.
Thank you for your dedication and commitment. I look forward to working with each of you as we take on this next chapter together.
Thank you for being a part of what we do, 
Lloyd Arnold, Commissioner
Department News & Announcements
Did You Know? All New Managers Must Attend This Workshop!
If you're a newly hired or promoted manager, you’re required to attend the Manager Onboarding Workshop! This remote, two-day training by SPD, held every four weeks, equips managers with essential knowledge on hiring, compensation, employee relations, leadership, and more. Designed to set you up for success, this workshop ensures you have the tools to thrive in your new role. If this impacts you, you’ll receive an email with details and a meeting invite before your scheduled session. Questions? Reach out to your HR business partner.
View MOW FlyerWardens Donnie Emerson and Frank Vanihel Promoted
We are excited to announce the promotions of Warden Donnie Emerson and Warden Frank Vanihel to key positions within the Operations team.
Donnie Emerson, who has served as warden at Plainfield Correctional Facility since 2023, has been named executive director of Adult Facilities, succeeding Julie Stout, who recently became deputy commissioner of Operations. Donnie has 32 years of experience in corrections, working in various roles across state and federal facilities, including correctional officer, sergeant, custody supervisor, training administrator, deputy warden, and warden. He has served as warden for seven years at three facilities. Donnie holds a degree in Criminal Justice from Indiana Wesleyan University and is a 2008 graduate of the Experienced and Emerging Leaders cohort.
Frank Vanihel, who has been warden at Wabash Valley Correctional Facility since 2020, will take on the role of regional director of Adult Facilities after the retirement of Julie Lanham at the end of this month. Frank began his corrections career in 1998 at the Plainfield Correctional Facility, serving in roles such as sergeant, lieutenant, captain, major, deputy warden, and warden. He has been involved with the Emergency Squad, Central SERT team, and as SERT commander. Frank served in the United States Marine Corps from 1994 to 1998 and holds the title of correctional police officer. He is a 2010 graduate of the Experienced and Emerging Leaders cohort.
Please join us in congratulating Donnie and Frank on these well-deserved promotions. We look forward to their continued leadership and dedication to our mission.
IDOC Unveils New Seal
This week, we unveiled the new seal for the Indiana Department of Correction. Commissioner Arnold requested that the seal be redesigned to better illustrate our mission, and to address a long-standing concern of the former design covering up our Nation’s flag.
The design and words inside the seal were inspired by your suggestions and votes, and we appreciate your participation in the process. The words in the seal – Strengthen, Inspire, Reform – highlight the important work we do and the impacts we have on both the incarcerated population, who we help prepare for a successful reentry, and our staff, who build their careers with us.
We will begin replacing our previous seal with this new design across the agency, but please understand this process will take time. We will keep you posted as changes are being made.
Find Newly Branded IDOC TemplatesStrengthen Your Career: 2025 Training Schedule Now Available!
Ready to enhance your skills in 2025? The Division of Workforce Engagement's new Course Catalog is live and filled with opportunities to help you grow! From leadership development to interviewing techniques and more, you’ll find courses tailored to boost your expertise in your current role and beyond. View the Course Catalog today and start planning your professional development!
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