2025 IPCSA Leadership Symposium-3 Day Event

This symposium is open to all levels of management, IPCSA Leadership Academy graduates, and any staff member recognized by management as a leader.  

Lodging Information:

Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa

444 Eagle Ridge Drive

Galena, IL  61036

Rate:  $179.00 plus fees/tax

Call 1-800-892-2269 for Lodging Reservations

Group:  Illinois Probation & Court Services Association

Code:  C/L#69COFS

Additional Housing Options (Villas):

1 Bedroom -$229- plus tax and fees

2 bedroom – $339 – plus tax and fees

3 bedroom villa- $429 -plus tax and fees

3 Bedroom home- $469- plus tax and fees

4 bedroom home- $669- plus tax and fees

5 bedroom home -$799- plus tax and fees

Room Block closes:  June 23, 2025

Extend your stay:  Discounted room rates available the day before and the day after the event!

July 22-24, 2025

Featured Speaker: Marcus Hodges

Marcus Hodges the immediate past-President of the National Association of Probation Executives, began a trajectory of impressive public service when he joined the Virginia Department of Corrections in 1992. Throughout his career he has worked to promote programs and processes that support the reintegration of released offenders to the community. Experienced in prisons, community corrections, and probation and parole, Hodges joined the National Institute of Corrections as a Correctional Program Specialist with the Community Corrections/Prisons Division. With a primary focus on community corrections, his tenure included work in the areas of transition from prison to community, evidence-based practices in corrections, and pretrial services. Other focus areas included programming on promoting a positive corrections culture and managing a multi-generational workforce.

As a Chief Probation and Parole Officer and as a Regional Administrator for the Virginia Department of Corrections, Hodges promoted strategic and innovative risk management, offender programming, and comprehensive and robust processes for reintegration success. In 2015, Hodges was named to Governor Terry McAuliffe’s Committee for Parole Review and worked on associated sub-committees to develop an in-depth review of the efficacy of the parole system.

In 2017, he was named the Associate Director for the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency in Washington, D.C. In recognition of his work, in 2018 he received the Middle Atlantic States President’s award for Innovation in Corrections.

Symposium Location-Eagle Ridge Resort-Galena, IL 

Nestled on 6800 acres of rolling hills, Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa in Galena, Illinois, provides the perfect atmosphere for any meeting.  This picturesque property is comprised of rolling hills, lush landscapes, 63 holes of golf and 225 acre Lake Galena.

At the center of the resort lies a comfortable and elegant Inn.  Eighty beautifully appointed rooms feature walkout patios with scenic lake or wood views and the homes and villas offer accommodations from 1-6 bedrooms.  These properties feature large common spaces, fireplaces and fully equipped kitchens that are tailor-made for groups of any size looking for a more relaxed environment.  Choose a property just a short walk from the Inn, a resort home deep within the woods or a townhouse overlooking the lake.

Make it an extended stay.  Eagle Ridge will honor lodging rates one day prior to and one day following the event.

Day 1

9:00 am- 12:00pm                                       Visit Beautiful Downtown Galena

12:00 pm-1:00 pm                                      Registration/Social

1:00 pm-1:30 pm                                        Welcome/Introduction of Speaker

1:30 pm-3:00 pm                                        General Session (Dr. Earl Suttle)

Leadership During Changing Times (What is the temperature of your organization?)

If you want your staff to be happier and more engaged and more enthusiastic about their jobs even during challenging times, this power-packed program is for you. In this program you will learn skills that will help make leading your team more productive and personally rewarding than you ever expected. You will learn to energize, develop, and reward your team even when the money isn’t there.

Key Areas of Focus:

• Fresh ideas to motivate yourself as a leader
• 5 Traits of a Positive Attitude
• How to utilize celebrations and appreciations as meeting openers to raise positivity levels of your team members
• How to understand your social style and the style of others
• Unique ways to get the most from others by asking better questions
• 5 A’s to building better team trust
• 5 ways to motivate and energize your team members

3:00 pm-3:10 pm                                        Break

3:10 pm-5:00 pm                                        General Session (Continued)

5:00 pm-5:30 pm                                        Wrap up

Day 2

8:30 am-10:30 am                                     General Session (Marcus Hodges)

   Creating a Culture of Accountability

This session is designed to equip leaders and team members with the tools and strategies needed to build a work environment where accountability is embraced at all levels.  This interactive workshop focuses on fostering a mindset where individuals take ownership of their actions, follow through on commitments, and contribute to the overall success of the organization.

Participants will explore the core principals of accountability, including setting clear expectations, providing constructive feedback, and addressing performance gaps effectively.  Through group discussions, and case studies, attendees will learn how to establish a culture where accountability is viewed positively and leads to improved trust, communication, and performance.

Key Topics covered include:

• Defining accountability and its impact on team performance
• Establishing clear roles, responsibilities, and expectations
• Creating a feedback loop that reinforces positive behavior and corrects performance issues
• Managing difficult conversations and holding others accountable with professionalism and respect
• Encouraging self-accountability and peer support within teams.

By the end of the session, participants will have a clear understanding of how to implement accountability strategies, foster a culture of ownership, and drive sustainable improvements in team performance and organizational success.

 10:30 am-10:45 am                                   Break

10:45 am-11:45 am                                   Break out session #1 (Groups A, B, C)

Group A:  Officer Safety/Wellness               Presenter:  Marcus Hodges

In today’s rapidly evolving environment, Community Corrections face unique challenges that demand adaptability, resilience, and a focus on personal well-being. As officers navigate leadership transitions, policy changes, and complex casework, it’s essential to equip them with the tools and strategies necessary for success and safety in a dynamic workplace.

Supervision officers face unique safety challenges due to the nature of their work. Balancing physical, mental, and emotional well-being is critical to performing effectively and staying safe. This workshop focuses on the critical role that leadership plays in fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and resilience within community corrections agencies.

Participants will explore key factors influencing officer safety, including situational awareness, decision-making under stress, and effective communication.  Through a combination of case studies, role-playing exercise, and group discussions, leaders will learn to identify potential risks, implement proactive safety measures, and support their teams in high pressure situations.

Group B:  Effective Communication/The “Art” of Dialogue                Presenter:  Dr. Susan Dandridge

 This program explores the principals and techniques of effective communication, with a focus on the art of dialogue. Participants will learn how to engage in meaningful conversations, listen actively, express ideas clearly, and navigate difficult discussions with empathy and confidence. Through interactive exercise, real-world scenarios, and reflective practices, the program enhances interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution abilities.

• Foundations of effective Communication
• The Power of Active Listening
• Verbal and Nonverbal Communication skills
• Building Trust and rapport in Conversations
• Navigating difficult conversations with confidence

Group C:  APPA Standards               Presenter:  Thomas Gregory

This workshop provides an in-depth exploration of APPA’s standards for excellence in Community Corrections. Designed for Community Corrections professionals the program covers best practices, benchmarking strategies, and key performance indicators that align with APPA’s principals. The APPA standards are designed to assist Community Corrections agencies in aligning their practices with the professional standards.  This program workshop provides a structured framework for enhancing organizational performance, officers and offender outcomes, and ensuring compliance with evidence-based practices and national guidelines. The program focuses on several key areas outlined by APPA standards, including:

• Professional conduct and ethics- Establishing clear guidelines for Officer behavior and decision-making.
• Risk and needs assessment– Implementation validated tools to asses offender risk levels and tailor supervision accordingly.
• Case management and supervision- Enhancing strategies for effective case planning, offender engagement, and community safety.
• Training and professional development-Ensuring staff are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills in supervision, communication, and intervention.
• Performance measurement and accountability– Establishing metrics to track progress, identify gaps, and continuously improve outcomes.

This workshop also involves a comprehensive assessment of current practices, identification of areas for improvement, and development of a strategic action plan to meet APPA standards.

11:45 am-1:00 pm                                     Lunch

1:00 pm-2:00 pm                                       Break out session #2 (Groups A, B, C)

Group B:  Officer Safety/Wellness               Presenter:  Marcus Hodges

In today’s rapidly evolving environment, Community Corrections face unique challenges that demand adaptability, resilience, and a focus on personal well-being. As officers navigate leadership transitions, policy changes, and complex casework, it’s essential to equip them with the tools and strategies necessary for success and safety in a dynamic workplace.

Supervision officers face unique safety challenges due to the nature of their work. Balancing physical, mental, and emotional well-being is critical to performing effectively and staying safe. This workshop focuses on the critical role that leadership plays in fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and resilience within community corrections agencies.

Participants will explore key factors influencing officer safety, including situational awareness, decision-making under stress, and effective communication.  Through a combination of case studies, role-playing exercise, and group discussions, leaders will learn to identify potential risks, implement proactive safety measures, and support their teams in high pressure situations.

Group C:  Effective Communication/The “Art” of Dialogue               Presenter:  Dr. Susan Dandridge

 This program explores the principals and techniques of effective communication, with a focus on the art of dialogue. Participants will learn how to engage in meaningful conversations, listen actively, express ideas clearly, and navigate difficult discussions with empathy and confidence. Through interactive exercise, real-world scenarios, and reflective practices, the program enhances interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution abilities.

• Foundations of effective Communication
• The Power of Active Listening
• Verbal and Nonverbal Communication skills
• Building Trust and rapport in Conversations
• Navigating difficult conversations with confidence

Group A:  APPA Standards               Presenter:  Thomas Gregory

This workshop provides an in-depth exploration of APPA’s standards for excellence in Community Corrections. Designed for Community Corrections professionals the program covers best practices, benchmarking strategies, and key performance indicators that align with APPA’s principals. The APPA standards are designed to assist Community Corrections agencies in aligning their practices with the professional standards.  This program workshop provides a structured framework for enhancing organizational performance, officers and offender outcomes, and ensuring compliance with evidence-based practices and national guidelines. The program focuses on several key areas outlined by APPA standards, including:

• Professional conduct and ethics- Establishing clear guidelines for Officer behavior and decision-making.
• Risk and needs assessment– Implementation validated tools to asses offender risk levels and tailor supervision accordingly.
• Case management and supervision- Enhancing strategies for effective case planning, offender engagement, and community safety.
• Training and professional development-Ensuring staff are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills in supervision, communication, and intervention.
• Performance measurement and accountability– Establishing metrics to track progress, identify gaps, and continuously improve outcomes.

This workshop also involves a comprehensive assessment of current practices, identification of areas for improvement, and development of a strategic action plan to meet APPA standards.

2:00 pm-2:15 pm                                       Break

2:15 pm-3:15 pm                                       Break out Session #3 (Groups A, B, C)

Group C:  Officer Safety/Wellness               Presenter:  Marcus Hodges

In today’s rapidly evolving environment, Community Corrections face unique challenges that demand adaptability, resilience, and a focus on personal well-being. As officers navigate leadership transitions, policy changes, and complex casework, it’s essential to equip them with the tools and strategies necessary for success and safety in a dynamic workplace.

Supervision officers face unique safety challenges due to the nature of their work. Balancing physical, mental, and emotional well-being is critical to performing effectively and staying safe. This workshop focuses on the critical role that leadership plays in fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and resilience within community corrections agencies.

Participants will explore key factors influencing officer safety, including situational awareness, decision-making under stress, and effective communication.  Through a combination of case studies, role-playing exercise, and group discussions, leaders will learn to identify potential risks, implement proactive safety measures, and support their teams in high pressure situations.

Group A:  Effective Communication/The “Art” of Dialogue               Dr. Susan Dandridge

 This program explores the principals and techniques of effective communication, with a focus on the art of dialogue. Participants will learn how to engage in meaningful conversations, listen actively, express ideas clearly, and navigate difficult discussions with empathy and confidence. Through interactive exercise, real-world scenarios, and reflective practices, the program enhances interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution abilities.

• Foundations of effective Communication
• The Power of Active Listening
• Verbal and Nonverbal Communication skills
• Building Trust and rapport in Conversations
• Navigating difficult conversations with confidence

Group B:  APPA Standards               Thomas Gregory

This workshop provides an in-depth exploration of APPA’s standards for excellence in Community Corrections. Designed for Community Corrections professionals the program covers best practices, benchmarking strategies, and key performance indicators that align with APPA’s principals. The APPA standards are designed to assist Community Corrections agencies in aligning their practices with the professional standards.  This program workshop provides a structured framework for enhancing organizational performance, officers and offender outcomes, and ensuring compliance with evidence-based practices and national guidelines. The program focuses on several key areas outlined by APPA standards, including:

• Professional conduct and ethics- Establishing clear guidelines for Officer behavior and decision-making.
• Risk and needs assessment– Implementation validated tools to asses offender risk levels and tailor supervision accordingly.
• Case management and supervision- Enhancing strategies for effective case planning, offender engagement, and community safety.
• Training and professional development-Ensuring staff are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills in supervision, communication, and intervention.
• Performance measurement and accountability– Establishing metrics to track progress, identify gaps, and continuously improve outcomes.

This workshop also involves a comprehensive assessment of current practices, identification of areas for improvement, and development of a strategic action plan to meet APPA standards.

3:15 pm-5:00 pm                                       Team Building Event (Vision Board)

Day 3

8:30 am-9:30 am                                        General Overview/Follow-up from Break Out

9:30 am-9:45 am                                        Break

9:45 am-11:30 pm                                      Closing Session (Alisha James)

  Mastering the Shift:  Thriving Through Change in a Dynamic Workplace

Navigating change management in organizations, particularly in a highly political environment requires adaptability, clear communication, and strategic focus. This session will provide attended training on the following:

1. Leadership Changes

• Stay Mission-Focused: Reaffirm your commitment to the organization’s core mission and values, regardless of who is in charge.
• Relationships management
• Adaptability

2.  Policy Changes

• Stay Informed
• Align with New Directions
• Balanced Advocacy

3.  Navigating a Political Environment (DC Context)

• Stay Above the Fray
• Focus on Long-Term Impact:  Focus on long-term goals, even when short-term political dynamics shift
• Leverage Networks Strategically

4.  Staying Focused on Impact

• Reinforce Your Purpose:  Regularly revisit your core mission and personal motivation for doing the work, especially when distractions arise
• Measure and Communicate Results:  Stay focused on measurable outcomes and use data to demonstrate the value of your work
• Prioritize Self-Care:  Manage stress by maintaining a healthy work-life balance, ensuring you can navigate change without burnout

 11:30 pm-12:00 pm       Wrap up

12:00 p.m. – ?                  Visit Beautiful Downtown Galena

Deadline to Register is July 1, 2025

No refunds or cancellations after July 16, 2025!

Biographies

In April 1992 Marcus M. Hodges started his career in the Virginia Department of Corrections and has worked passionately in various positions to create environments that produce safer communities, and fewer victims while reducing recidivism.  These positions include a Rehabilitation Counselor at maximum-security prison, Intensive Probation and Parole Officer, Sr. Probation Officer in Community Correctional facilities (Detention/Diversion programs), Deputy Chief Probation and Parole Officer, and Regional Manager. In 2003 Marcus Hodges joined the National Institute of Corrections on an Interagency Personnel Act (IPA) contract between NIC and the Virginia Department of Corrections. Working as a Correctional Program Specialist with the Community Corrections/Prisons Division, His primary focus was on community corrections in the areas of offenders transitioning from prison to the community, evidence-based practices in corrections, and pretrial services. His responsibilities extend to the prison environment in the areas of promoting a positive correctional culture and working successfully with a multi-generational workforce In 2006 he was promoted to Chief Probation and Parole Officer in District #21 (Fredericksburg, Virginia.) and achieved success in reducing workload/caseload and developing local reentry councils.  This collaborative approach assisted offenders in re-entering society.  In 2012 he was promoted to Community Corrections Regional Administrator for the Virginia Department of Corrections. In these positions he was responsible for overseeing sixteen (16) Probation and Parole Districts, two (2) Community Corrections facilities, and nine (9) Community Residential programs.

While employed with the Virginia Department of Corrections he received the Directors award for Teamwork in 2012 and for Innovation in 2015.

In March 2017 he was named Associate Director for Court Services Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA) in Washington DC.  While employed for the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency in Washington DC he received the Middle Atlantic States Correctional Association award for Innovation in Corrections in 2018 and received the Sam Houston State University Probation Executive of the Year in 2020. In 2024 he was awarded the George Keiser award for Exceptional Leadership from the National Association of Probation Executives.

He served as President of the National Association of Probation Executives from 2014-2018 and is currently President-elect of the American Probation and Parole Association. He also assists in facilitating the American Probation and Parole Association Leadership Academy and is co-chair of the Diversity committee.

Dr. Earl Suttle is the CEO and founder of Leadership Success International, LLC, an international consulting and training company based in Atlanta, GA. The firm works with businesses and organizations to increase their profits and productivity through developing their greatest resource: their people.  Through his live seminars, webinars, and private executive coaching sessions, Dr. Earl has empowered thousands of individuals to achieve greater success and enabled companies to become world-class.

As a leadership advisor, his clients include Delta Air Lines, American Express, AT&T, AFLAC Insurance, Home Depot, Toyota, University of Georgia, Walmart, and Kimberly Clark Corporation. Dr. Suttle has also conducted keynote consulting and training seminars for many corporations, government, healthcare and education organizations.   He has also been a consultant to the NBA, NFL, and WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) and works on a personal level with the athletes.

Dr. Earl is a highly sought-after speaker and co-author of 12 best-selling books and numerous DVDs on leadership.  His latest book, Beyond Excellence, is receiving rave reviews.  He has appeared on CNN and been featured in Ebony and In Style magazines. His remarkable insights and powerful, practical tools excite, energize and elevate his audiences to exceptional greatness.

He and his wife, Felicia, make their home in Atlanta.

Alisha S. James:

Criminal Justice Expert, Executive & Innovator | Former Law Enforcement | Speaker

Alisha S. James is a criminal justice expert and executive, leader in criminal justice reform, former law enforcement supervisor and award-winning officer, entrepreneur, and speaker. With nearly two decades of experience spanning from government to the private sector, Alisha has gained expertise on the most global and granular hurdles in the corrections industry and criminal justice reform along with the skillset to address them with a strategic blend of best practices, ingenuity, and innovation.

Alisha began her career as a Metropolitan Nashville Police Officer, serving as a patrol officer, undercover detective, training instructor, and background and recruiting investigator. In 2009, she was selected for an internship with the Presidential Personnel Office, where she recruited and selected qualified candidates to serve the President of the United States in departments and agencies across the government.

In 2011, Alisha joined the United States Probation and Pretrial Services Office – Middle District of Tennessee, conducting investigations and preparing sentencing recommendations for individuals convicted of federal offenses. From 2014 to 2019, she served the Tennessee Department of Corrections as a correctional administrator, then was promoted to statewide probation administrator. Next, Alisha was appointed as assistant commissioner for community supervision, where she managed an $84 million budget, oversaw operations for 44 probation/parole offices, and directed 1,200 employees across Tennessee. Her outstanding work was recognized by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) in 2018 when she was named one of the top 40 Under 40 in Law Enforcement globally.

In 2019, Alisha founded James Group Consulting, a criminal justice consulting firm serving government agencies and private corporations. The same year, Alisha launched QwickTouch, a mobile-based platform designed to revolutionize probation, parole, and reentry services for community supervision agencies and their clients.

Most recently, Alisha joined Aventiv Technologies. Currently, in her role as Senior Vice President of Account Management, Alisha leads a nationwide team charged with understanding unique client needs to help develop technology solutions for continuously evolving corrections environments.

Alisha is a frequent speaker on criminal justice and corrections, law enforcement and community relations, innovation and technology, and women in leadership. She has spoken at conferences and events across the United States and internationally in locations ranging from Canada and Argentina to Australia. Alisha was a board member for the American Probation and Parole Association and advanced technology company Corrisoft and currently sits on the board for the Association of Women Executives in Corrections, Dismas House of Nashville, and The Table, an effort to make Nashville the model for equity and inclusiveness.

A true powerhouse where law enforcement and criminal justice meet innovation, Alisha James is a one-of-a-kind leader who can both envision and move the industry into the next generation.

Dr. Susan Dandridge received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Yale University and her Master’s and Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from the Virginia Commonwealth University.  She completed her Doctoral Internship at the Federal Correctional Complex in Petersburg, Virginia and began her career at Central State Hospital as a Forensic Psychologist.

Dr. Dandridge left Central State Hospital as the Chief Forensic Coordinator and came to the Virginia Department of Corrections in January 2008 as the Mental Health Supervisor for Community Corrections. In 2014 she became the Organizational Development Manager and in 2019 she became the Mental Health and Wellness Initiatives Administrator. She is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and an Accredited Professional Dialogue Practitioner.

Thomas Gregory is the Director of Vermilion County, IL Probation and Court Services, where he has proudly served since 1997.  Tom has worked as an Adult Officer, Intensive Officer, Adult Supervisor and Director. Tom is currently serving an elected term as the Vice President for the American Probation and Parole Association. Tom previously served two (2) terms as APPA Treasurer and one (1) term as the Region Representative for Illinois. He is a proud graduate of APPA’s Leadership Institute 5. Tom served as the Board Laison for the development of the APPA Probation Standards.  Tom is a past President of the Illinois Probation and Court Services Association, the current Chair of the Legislative Committee and member of the Leadership Symposium Committee.  Tom has served as a member of the Illinois Supreme Court Probation Policy Advisory Board, the Danville Boys and Girls Club Board, and as a member of the Illinois Judicial College Committee on Probation Education DUI and Management workgroups.