8/30/00

Contacts:
Beverlyn Lundy Allen, Institute for Public Leadership, (515) 294-9107
Susan Thompson, Agriculture Communications, (515) 294-0705

COMMON GROUND LEADERSHIP AWARD PRESENTED

AMES, Iowa -- A 20-year employee of Iowa's correctional system has received the 2000 Common Ground Leadership Award from the Institute for Public Leadership.

Jeanette Bucklew, deputy director of the Iowa Department of Corrections, was the award recipient. The selection committee said, "Our definition of a leader is someone who carries a sustained commitment to a clear vision. In Jeanette's case, that vision was the value of community-based corrections and the opportunities for rebuilding lives it affords."

Kip Kautsky, director of the Iowa Department of Corrections, said, "Her courage and stamina in working with judges, legislators, county prosecutors and defense attorneys was the catalyst in moving Iowa to a position of national prominence in community correctional services. By combining state resources with federal resources, Jeanette quietly led the charge to sustain community-based corrections even when financial resources were not readily available."

Cynthia Eisenhauer, director of the Department of Management and a member of the selection committee, said Bucklew consistently demonstrated the patience and tenacity required to achieve success.

"Rather than pushing bold, controversial changes in the system, she thoughtfully and methodically made substantial legislative and operational system changes one step at a time, involving everyone who is likely to be touched," Eisenhauer said. "On a foundation of trust, openness and competence, Jeanette has established herself as a valued resource by leaders in all three branches of government."

The award was presented Aug. 25 at the Institute for Public Leadership's final 2000 training session in Ames.

The Common Ground Leadership Award is given annually to a person or group that has made significant contributions toward enhancing quality of governmental services delivered to Iowans; increasing governmental effectiveness, efficiency and communication; and exemplifying the spirit of intergovernmental cooperation and achievement.

Established in 1995, the Institute for Public Leadership promotes communication, cooperation and quality service delivery among Iowa's three branches of state government. Each year the institute trains emerging leaders from all levels and branches of state government. The institute's program director is Beverlyn Lundy Allen in the Iowa State University sociology department.

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