Deborah Kesler
On Thursday, September 5, 2024 at the Probation Officers Professional Association of Indiana (POPAI) annual fall conference, Deborah Kesler, Juvenile Chief Probation Officer from Vigo County was presented the Founder’s Award.
The Founder’s Award was established in 2014 to recognize line probation officers who have performed their duties in an outstanding manner and /or made significant contributions to the field of probation at the local, regional or national level. The recipient may also have brought credit or honor to the profession of probation through participation or involvement in community activities or programs.
Chief Kesler has been a probation officer for 42 years and 36 of those as chief of the department. She was awarded the Woman of the Year by the Tribune Star for her work with developing a successful Truancy Court. In 1999 she was selected by the Indiana Correctional Association as Probation Officer of the Year and received the Law Enforcement Commendation Medal in 2000 from the Sons of the American Revolution.
She is a team player, always willing to lend a hand, well respected, supportive of future professionals, a visionary and dedicated. Two years ago she helped start a Juvenile Drug Court, which was only the 3rd of its type in Indiana to become certified to provide more focus and resources to the problem of juvenile substance abuse. She has earned a reputation for impeccable integrity and is universally admired for her honesty.
Magistrate Daniel Kelly stated “I have witnessed first-hand the difference Ms. Kesler has made in countless lives in her 42 year career serving Vigo County juveniles and cannot imagine anyone more deserving of the Founder’s Award as she prepares to end her illustrious and fruitful career.”
Congratulations Deborah!
Cherie Epley
On Thursday, September 5, 2024 at the Probation Officers Professional Association of Indiana (POPAI) annual fall conference, Cherie Epley, Chief Probation Officer of Vanderburgh County Adult Probation, was awarded the “Founder’s Award”.
The “Founder’s Award” is a way of recognizing individuals who have significantly contributed to the field of probation in general and specifically to the POPAI organization. The recipient need not be a Probation Officer or POPAI member. The selected person however, shall be characterized by his/her commitment of influence and promotion of professionalism to Indiana probation.
Cherie has been a POPAI member for 25 years and has served on the POPAI board as either Secretary or the District 8 Representative since 2002. That’s 22 years of service and dedication to improving and supporting the field of probation!
Andria Geigle, Chief Probation Officer of Montgomery County Probation, stated “I am honored to call Cherie a friend and mentor. Those who know Cherie, know she gives 110% all the time, has an amazing positive attitude, and would literally give you the shirt off her back if needed. She is a strong and compassionate leader.”
Magistrate Kelli Fink stated “Since her appointment as the Chief Probation Officer, she has worked tirelessly to improve communication with all agencies who interact with the probation department. She has created an environment that is respected for its organization, well-trained staff, effective communication, and accessibility to stakeholders. The probation office stays true to its goals and mission of serving probationers and the Courts while also being a workplace that is more like a family than an office setting. As a magistrate, I strive to emulate her dedication, patience, professionalism, and work ethic.”
Congratulations Cherie!