Correctional Worker
Graduation Year: 1977
Bob Russell is a true believer in lifelong learning. Although he graduated 35 years ago, he has continued to pursue higher education both here at Sheridan and elsewhere to expand his skills and better contribute to his community. Bob plans to use his sixth and latest certification, Non-Profit and Voluntary Sector Leadership, to enhance his long history of charitable work. Most recently, Bob was involved in the Halton Crime Stoppers Jail and Bail fundraising event in Fall 2011. His volunteer efforts earned him a five year service recognition award from the BP Guild of Canada which is in partnership with Scouts Canada. He is also a past recipient of the Ontario Correctional Minister's Award for Exceptional Community Service.
Following his graduation from the Correctional Worker program, Bob joined the Ontario Public Service where he worked for close to 30 years. He was a Corrections Officer at the Metro Toronto Forensic Service, Mimico Correctional Centre, an Acting Control Supervisor at O.C.I., Brampton and a Provincial Bailiff involved with the transportation of offenders within Ontario. Among his additional education is a certification in Adult Education (High Honours) which he put to good use as a Program Coordinator at the Ontario Parole Board.
Bob was involved with the Ontario Association of Corrections and Criminology (OACC) for almost two decades. As Editor of the organization’s newsletter for 11 years, Bob promoted Sheridan program faculty and graduates through regular features. During Bob’s tenure as a member of the OACC’s Board of Directors, a student of the former Correctional Worker program was appointed to the Board, adding a fresh perspective to the membership activities. At this time, as well, the Association established a Sheridan scholarship in support of Correctional Worker Program students.
A long-time supporter of alumni events at Sheridan, Bob rarely misses a chance to reconnect with college alumni from all programs, and to promote the benefits of a Sheridan education. A past Convocation Alumni Speaker, he is quick to point out the college’s approach to learning. “Sheridan had a positive impact on my life and career. Besides teaching the core concepts of penology, criminology and the behavioural sciences, the program gave me an excellent overall applied liberal arts education.”
Despite his early retirement from Ontario Corrections in 2006, Bob remains active in the community. “My early days at Sheridan instilled in me the concept of lifelong learning and giving back,” says Bob, who attends conferences and seminars related to the ever-growing restorative justice movement.
In addition to the B.P. Guild of Canada, Bob belongs to the Couchiching Institute on Public Affairs, and the Church Council on Justice and Corrections. He is also enjoying the chance to more time with his wife of 23 years, Wendy, at their Oakville home.