News
DPSCS and AFSCME Local 1678 sponsor the 2026 Immigrant Heritage Celebration!
DPSCS and AFSCME Local 1678 are excited to invite you to the 2026 Immigrant Heritage Celebration! Rooted in celebrating culture, honoring heritage, and strengthening community, this year's event highlights the vibrant traditions that enrich both our workforce and local communities. Join us for a day filled with cultural activities, delicious food, a best-dressed contest, local vendors, and much more!
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
- Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Location: 7930 Brockbridge Road, Jessup, MD 20794
- Admission: Free for all attendees
Registration (for Attendees and Vendors) Please click here for the link to register.
Vendor Opportunities:
We are actively seeking local vendors, artisans, food providers, and cultural organizations to showcase their products and services at this event.
- Vendor Fee: $50 Application
- Deadline: Register by September 18, 2026
Want to be a Vendor? Click the link above to apply for a Vendor Space
If you are interested in sharing your craft, food, or heritage with our community, reserve your table today! Please contact [email protected] with any questions.
The Maryland Correctional Institution for Women (MCIW) celebrates Aramark IN2WORK graduates
The Maryland Correctional Institution for Women (MCIW) recently celebrated an Aramark IN2WORK graduation, recognizing participants who completed training focused on managerial skills and food safety, providing valuable knowledge and preparation for careers in the food service industry—both of which will decrease the likelihood of recidivism.
Through IN2WORK, participants gain hands-on workforce skills while also receiving an opportunity to earn a scholarship that can be used by themselves or a family member, helping create educational opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.
Congratulations to all of the graduates on reaching this important milestone and taking another step toward successful reentry and future career opportunities!
Maryland Correctional Institution-Hagerstown (MCIH) food donation drive
"The It's A Blessing to be A Blessing" food donation drive at Maryland Correctional Institution-Hagerstown (MCIH) has officially wrapped up, bringing together staff and fellow state agencies to support the local community.
The initiative grew into a collaborative effort; joining MCI-H staff in collecting donations were the Background Investigations Unit-Western Maryland, DJS-Western Maryland Children’s Center, Commitment Office and participants from Maryland Correctional Training Center.
Thank you to everyone who contributed their time, resources, and generosity to help make this community effort a success.
Together, we’re showing that giving back can have an impact far beyond our facilities.
Maryland Correctional Institution for Women - MCIW prepare for the Mother-Child dance
Women at the Maryland Correctional Institution for Women (MCIW) are shown here preparing for the Mother-Child Dance by bedazzling sneakers and selecting clothing and jewelry for the special occasion.
The women attending the dance have remained infraction-free, demonstrating positive behavior and earning the opportunity to participate in this meaningful family event.
Moments like these provide an opportunity to strengthen the bond between mothers and their children, create positive memories, and maintain important family connections. Supporting healthy family relationships is an important part of rehabilitation and successful reentry.
We're looking forward to seeing the finished looks and celebrating the mothers and children who will share this special day together!
Roxbury Correctional Institution (RCI) ribbon cutting at Goucher College
Roxbury Correctional Institution (RCI) recently celebrated the ribbon-cutting of its new Legacy Classroom, creating a dedicated space for Goucher College courses and expanding access to higher education for the incarcerated population.
The Legacy Classroom represents more than a new learning space. It represents an investment in opportunity, personal growth and successful reentry. By expanding access to education, RCI is helping individuals develop knowledge and skills that can support a different future beyond incarceration.
The classroom’s name reflects the lasting impact of the work happening within its walls—the knowledge shared, opportunities created and lives positively influenced.
Goucher Prison Education Partnership - GPEP will begin using the Legacy Classroom this month, marking the beginning of a new chapter in education at RCI.
The Maryland Correctional Institution for Women (MCIW) celebrates a Reentry Graduation
The Maryland Correctional Institution for Women (MCIW) recently celebrated a Re-entry Graduation in partnership with Unburdened Heart.
The graduation recognized women who completed a program focused on reflection, personal growth and preparing for the transition back into their communities. Unburdened Heart’s work helps individuals rebuild, renew and restore as they navigate life after incarceration.
Reentry preparation is an important part of rehabilitation. By providing individuals with the tools, support and opportunities for growth they need before returning home, we can help create stronger pathways toward successful reentry.
Congratulations to all of the graduates on reaching this important milestone!
Jessup Correctional Institution (JCI) recently hosted a Special Open Mic event
Jessup Correctional Institution (JCI) recently hosted a Special Open Mic, giving incarcerated individuals an opportunity to express themselves through spoken word, music, skits, and storytelling.
The event featured special guest Unique Robinson of Maryland Institute College of Art, the JCI High Potential Swagg Band, and members of the JCI Writers’ Club, highlighting the talent and creativity within the facility.
Programs that encourage positive self-expression, confidence, and personal development are an important part of preparing individuals for successful reentry and life beyond incarceration.
Dorsey Run Correctional Facility (DRCF) recently hosted a Family Day
Dorsey Run Correctional Facility (DRCF) recently hosted a Family Day, bringing incarcerated individuals and their loved ones together for a day filled with arts and crafts, games, gift baskets, and quality time.
Opportunities like these are an important part of family reunification, giving families the chance to reconnect, strengthen relationships, and create positive memories together. Maintaining those connections can provide meaningful support as individuals prepare for reentry and their return home.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this special day possible!
Jessup Correctional Institution (JCI) recently hosted a baptism ceremony
Jessup Correctional Institution (JCI) recently hosted a baptism ceremony, providing an opportunity for incarcerated individuals to publicly affirm their faith and mark an important moment in their spiritual journey.
DPSCS recognizes the importance of opportunities that support faith, reflection, personal growth, and positive transformation. Congratulations to everyone who participated in this meaningful occasion.
Congratulations to the graduates of the Addiction Treatment Protocol (ATP) at Maryland Correctional Institution for Women (MCIW)!
ATP is a six-month, outpatient Level I treatment program designed to provide participants with support and tools to address substance use and make positive changes to prepare for healthier, more successful lives after incarceration.
We’re proud to recognize the dedication of each graduate and wish them continued success on their journey toward reentry.
The Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS) celebrated the graduation of 32 correctional staff members
On August 20, 2026, The Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS) celebrated the graduation of 32 correctional staff members from the Correctional Entrance Level Training Program at the Public Safety Education and Training Center in Sykesville.
Thirty-one graduates will join DPSCS facilities across Maryland, while one will serve at the Howard County Detention Center. The graduates will begin reporting to their assigned facilities in the coming days, providing added staffing support in Baltimore, Jessup, Hagerstown, Cumberland, and other parts of the state.
“Every officer who joins our ranks further strengthens our ability to operate safe and secure facilities,”
said DPSCS Secretary Carolyn J. Scruggs. “This graduating class represents another important step in our sustained work to build our Department’s workforce with qualified professionals who are ready to serve their communities and support our mission to keep everyone safe, including the public, our hardworking staff, and those within our care.”
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Jessup Correctional Institution (JCI) recently hosted a Music Benefit Banquet
Jessup Correctional Institution (JCI) recently hosted a Music Benefit Banquet, bringing incarcerated individuals together to celebrate the spirit of giving and support a meaningful cause.
Funds raised through the charitable event will benefit House Of Ruth Maryland, Inc., supporting the organization’s work to help individuals and families impacted by intimate partner violence.
DPSCS is proud to recognize the generosity and community-minded spirit behind this effort and the positive impact it will make beyond the walls of JCI.
Maryland Correctional Institution for Women (MCIW) recently hosted a Reentry Resource Fair
Maryland Correctional Institution for Women (MCIW) recently hosted a Reentry Resource Fair, connecting incarcerated women with valuable resources, services, and support to help prepare for their return home.
A special thank you to the DPSCS Reentry Team and our dedicated community partners for coming together to provide information and opportunities that can help remove barriers and support successful transitions back into the community.
Secretary of Budget and Management Jake Weissman recently joined DPSCS Secretary Carolyn J. Scruggs for a tour of some correctional facilities
Secretary of Budget and Management Jake Weissman recently joined DPSCS Secretary Carolyn J. Scruggs for a tour of Maryland Correctional Institution for Women (MCIW) and Jessup Correctional Institution (JCI) to learn more about Maryland Correctional Enterprises (MCE) and the work taking place in its shops.
The tour highlighted the valuable skills, training, and work experience available through MCE programs, which help prepare individuals for successful reentry and future employment opportunities.
DPSCS is proud to be at the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Summer Conference in Ocean City!
Our team is connecting with county leaders, partners, and public safety professionals to highlight the importance of successful reentry and its role in reducing recidivism. By connecting returning citizens with the resources, support, and opportunities they need to succeed, we can help build safer, stronger communities across Maryland.
Maryland Correctional Institution for Women (MCIW) recently hosted a special concert
Maryland Correctional Institution for Women (MCIW) recently hosted a special concert showcasing original music written and performed by participants in the Nu Wxrld Music Group. After months of songwriting, collaboration, and rehearsal, the performers took the stage to present 22 original songs from memory, earning enthusiastic support from the MCIW community.
Programs like this provide meaningful opportunities for creative expression, teamwork, and personal growth while helping participants develop confidence and transferable skills that support successful reentry. By fostering positive outlets and encouraging self-expression, initiatives like the Nu Wxrld Music Group play an important role in rehabilitation and helping reduce recidivism.
Congratulations to everyone involved, and thank you to the instructors, volunteers, and community organizations whose support helped make this inspiring performance possible!
Safer Stronger Together (SST) initiative welcomes the Agoge Project
As part of the Safer Stronger Together (SST) initiative, the DPSCS recently welcomed The Agoge Project to connect with youth at the Youth Detention Center (YDC) through an engaging experience centered on personal growth, accountability, and positive decision-making.
By introducing participants to mentors, community resources, and opportunities available after release, programs like this help prepare youth for successful reentry. According to The Agoge Project, 97% of participating youth reported improved academic confidence—an important outcome that can encourage continued education, expand future opportunities, and support long-term success en route to reducing recidivism.
It is inspiring to see our staff put our mission into action so generously. You truly showed what it means to care for and invest in the people we serve.
Thank you to The Agoge Project for partnering with the Safer Stronger Together initiative to help empower Maryland's youth and invest in brighter futures.
Secretary Carolyn J. Scruggs Shares Department Vision in Baltimore Sun Op-Ed
Secretary Carolyn J. Scruggs has authored an op-ed, "The Department of Corrections is up to the Challenge," published July 23, 2026 in The Baltimore Sun, highlighting the Department's commitment to public safety, accountability, rehabilitation, and the dedicated work of our employees across Maryland.
The piece reflects on the important role our Department plays in serving Marylanders and reinforces our ongoing commitment to strengthening our correctional system while supporting the staff who carry out this mission every day.
Discover Correctional Officer Interview Opportunities
BALTIMORE, MD - The Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services is looking for individuals to join our mission – to protect the public, its employees, and the justice-involved individuals it is responsible for. We are hosting a series of recruitment events that provide interview opportunities – from weekly in-person interviews to quarterly hiring events. These events are designed to discover how your skills align with our goals. View Recruitment Event Interview Opportunities
