Christine Blessinger
Deputy Commissioner Administration & Programs
Christine Blessinger brings over 26 years of dedicated experience to her role as Deputy Commissioner of Administration and Programs for the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC). With a deep understanding of both policy and people-centered solutions, her career has been marked by a strong commitment to advancing evidence-based practices and fostering positive outcomes within the correctional system.
Beginning her career in a juvenile detention center and then to Pendleton Juvenile Correctional Facility, Blessinger quickly rose through the ranks, serving in critical roles such as Caseworker, Unit Team Manager, Program Director and Executive Director of the Division of Youth Services. Her expertise in working with youth culminated in her role as Deputy Commissioner of Re-Entry and Youth Services, where she led programs that supported successful transitions for both youth and adults. Her innovative strategies in re-entry and rehabilitation have significantly enhanced IDOC’s mission to prioritize safety, rehabilitation, and reintegration.
Blessinger’s influence extends beyond the IDOC. She is an active member of the American Correctional Association (ACA), where she serves on the Commission for Accreditation, helping to uphold national standards in corrections. Additionally, she is a former Executive Board Member of the Council of Juvenile Justice Administrators, further demonstrating her dedication to improving outcomes for justice-involved youth.
Blessinger earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology from Indiana State University, equipping her with a strong academic foundation to complement her extensive professional experience. Her leadership continues to shape innovative approaches in corrections, with a focus on fostering positive change for individuals and communities alike.
Mission
We promote public safety by providing meaningful, effective opportunities for successful reentry.
Vision
As the model of best correctional practices, we strive to return productive citizens to our communities and inspire a culture of accountability, integrity and Professionalism.
John Mather
Executive Director of Programs & Reentry
Executive Director Mather serves as the Executive Director of Programs and Reentry for the Indiana Department of Correction. John began his career as a Correctional Officer at the Edinburgh Correctional Facility where he was promoted to Caseworker, Casework Manager, and Unit Team Manager. John came to the Central Office location in 2015 as a Reentry Medicaid Monitor and supervised the newly established Medicaid Processing Unit. He then transitioned into the role of Reentry Monitor and conducted quality assurance audits and training for Case Management staff across the state. In 2017, John returned to the field as a Unit Team Manager and Correctional Police Officer, most recently at the Correctional Industrial Facility, before returning to Central Office as the Director of Case Management. He was promoted to Executive Director in 2020. John is a 2015 EEL graduate and has served on several focus groups and taskforces for the Department. John has a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Indiana University and Master of Business Administration degree from Western Governors University.
Reentry's Responsibilities
- Hoosier Initiative for Re-Entry (HIRE)
Hoosier Initiative for Re-Entry (HIRE)
The Hoosier Initiative for Re-Entry (HIRE) Division, established in 2012, assists individuals with past legal involvement in reintegrating into society by providing career opportunities that foster sustainable success. Focused on reducing recidivism and fostering a successful reentry, HIRE connects clients who have completed certification training in facilities or are current Parole clients with employment that offers livable wages and long-term career growth, helping them build a path to a better future.
- Adult Education
Adult Education
The Education Department offers incarcerated individuals access to transformative learning opportunities, including academic programs, vocational training, and life skills development. By equipping participants with the tools for personal growth and successful reintegration, this division fosters a culture of self-improvement, reduces recidivism, and empowers individuals to build brighter futures.
- Case Management
Case Management
The Case Management process helps individuals prepare for a successful return to the community by addressing criminal thinking and behaviors. Re‑entry begins at intake, where each person is assessed using the Indiana Risk Assessment System (IRAS), the same tool used by community supervising agencies. Using individualized case plans, Case Management focuses on reducing recidivism through targeted programs, courses, and activities that support rehabilitation and long‑term success. By combining evidence‑based practices with a team‑based approach, this process gives individuals the skills they need both during incarceration and when they return to the community.
To support this work, the Department uses a Unit Team model. Each person is assigned a case manager who serves as a liaison between the individual, facility departments, and outside stakeholders. This approach helps build short‑ and long‑term plans that address criminogenic needs, ensure coordinated efforts, and enhance community safety. Case Management plays a vital role in improving re‑entry outcomes across the criminal justice system.
Case Plan Credit Time (CPCT)
Case Plan Credit Time provides earned credit time for individuals who are making progress on their personal case plan. CPCT allows staff to reward positive progress and encourage participation in programing and interventions tailored to each person’s needs, circumstances, and risk factors.
- Religious and Volunteer Services
Religious Services and Volunteer Services
Religious Services provides incarcerated individuals with the opportunity to practice their faith in a safe and respectful environment. By offering access to spiritual resources and facilitating religious programs across various faith traditions, the division supports personal growth, resilience, and community connection, addressing the spiritual needs of those in custody.
The Indiana Department of Correction welcomes the assistance of groups and individual Hoosiers. We rely on volunteers to help our population through religious activities, education, life skills and support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous. Our PLUS program needs responsible men and women to present structured material in a classroom setting and help individuals apply these lessons and skills.
Nicholas Sprague
Chief Digital Officer
Nick brings with him both information technology and correctional operations experience, spanning local, state, and federal government. Prior to joining the IDOC as the IT Project Manager, he was employed by the Court Technology Office of the Indiana Supreme Court as a Software Development Project Manager, and was employed as a Field Officer for Bartholomew County Community Correction.
Nick’s development background is as a full-stack web developer. He is primarily a user interface/user experience developer (what you as the user see on the computer screen). In his role as Chief Digital Officer, he oversees data science and analytics, agency software (including DELTA), the helpdesk, and project management.
In his free time, he likes to build his own web applications, hike with his wife and their dogs, and shoot.
Digital Officer Responsibilities
- Data Science and Analytics
Data Science and Analytics
Data Science and Analytics supports informed decision-making by transforming data into meaningful insights. Through reporting, dashboards, research, and performance measurement, the team helps identify trends, evaluate outcomes, and provide information that supports operations efficiency, strategic planning, and continuous improvements across the agency.
- Software Development
Software Development
Software development designs, builds, and maintains the digital system that supports agency operations and service delivery. By developing secure, reliable, and user-focused applications, the team helps streamline business process, improve access to information, and support the evolving technology needs of staff and stakeholders.
- Help Desk
Help Desk
The Help Desk provides technical support and assistance to agency staff, helping resolve technology-related issues and maintain productivity. From troubleshooting hardware and software concerns to supporting system access and user request, the team serves as a central resource for day-to-day technology support.
- Project Management
Project Management
Project Management oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of technology initiatives across the agency. By managing timelines, resources, risks, and stakeholder communication, the team helps ensure projects are delivered efficiently and aligned with organizational goals and business needs.
- Digital Experience and User Experience (UX)
Digital Experience and User Experience (UX)
Digital Experience and UX focuses on improving how people interact with the agency’s digital services, websites, and applications. Through user research, accessibility, content strategy, and experience design, the team helps ensure digital resources are easy to use, accessible, and aligned with the needs of staff, stakeholders, and the public.
Nancy Riley
Executive Director Workforce Engagement
Executive Director Nancy Riley earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana State University and began her corrections career in 1995 as a Youth Care Worker at the Madison County Juvenile Center. In 1999, she joined the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) as a Correctional Training Officer. While working full-time, she returned to ISU to complete her master’s degree. Her passion for training and staff development led to her promotion to Executive Director of Staff Development and Training in January 2013.
In her current role as Executive Director of Workforce Engagement, Mrs. Riley oversees statewide training for all Department staff and leads the Department’s efforts to strengthen employee retention. She also guides the implementation and management of the Department’s Leading from Within initiative.
Under her leadership, she has played an instrumental role in developing key departmental programs, including the IDOC Hall of Honor, the Fallen Staff Memorial, the three-tier DOC Supervisory Programs, Experienced and Emerging Leadership (EEL), Leadership Academy, and Promoting a Positive Culture in Corrections (PPCC), among others.
Mrs. Riley continues to play a critical role in upholding excellence in developing, educating, and supporting staff statewide by creating new, engaging, and effective training opportunities for the field.
Workforce Engagement's Responsibilities
- New Employee Training
New Employee Training Program
The new employee Preservice Academy is designed to equip incoming IDOC staff with the essential knowledge, skills, and tools needed for success in their roles. The program provides a thorough introduction to IDOC policies, procedures, and values, with a focus on safety, professionalism, and teamwork. By building a strong foundation, the Preservice Academy prepares new employees to confidently contribute to the department’s mission and ensure effective service delivery.
- DWE Course Catalog
DWE Course Catalog
The Division of Workforce Engagement (DWE) Course Catalog is a comprehensive resource detailing the educational and professional development opportunities available to IDOC staff. The catalog offers a diverse range of courses tailored to enhance knowledge, build skills, and support career advancement. By providing structured learning paths and specialized training, the DWE Course Catalog ensures that employees are equipped to meet the evolving demands of their roles while fostering personal and professional growth.
- Correction Training Institute
Correctional Training Institute
Correctional Training Institute (CTI) serves as the premier training and professional development hub for IDOC staff. CTI provides comprehensive programs designed to equip employees with the knowledge, skills, and leadership capabilities necessary for success in their roles. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and excellence, CTI supports the department’s mission to ensure safety, security, and effective rehabilitation.
- Mission/Vision
Mission
To develop, educate, and sustain correctional professionals by providing relevant services through workforce engagement.
Vision
To influence and inspire Correctional Professionals through guidance and support.
Dr. Adrienne Bedford
Chief Medical Officer
Dr. Adrienne Bedford earned her bachelor’s degree from Alabama A&M University in Huntsville, AL, and her medical degree from The University of Louisville School of Medicine in Louisville, KY. She completed her family medicine residency at Community Health Network. Dr. Bedford began her career in correctional medicine as the Medical Director at the Indiana Women’s Prison.
Before joining the field of corrections, Dr. Bedford held several leadership roles, including Chief Medical Officer at Shalom Health Care Center and Deputy Chief Medical Officer at Indiana Health Centers. She has also worked as a staff physician with Eskenazi Medical Group, the Marion County Health Department, and Meridian Health Services. Throughout her career, Dr. Bedford has been dedicated to providing quality healthcare to underserved and vulnerable populations, with a focus on managing chronic conditions and preventative care. She has worked closely with both internal and external stakeholders to secure funding for community health centers across Indiana.
In her free time, Dr. Bedford enjoys volunteering in the community and spending time with her family.
Health Services' Responsibilities
Looking for educational or medical records for a current or past incarcerated individual? Learn more about requesting records on our Contact page.
- Addiction Recovery Services
Addiction Recovery Services
The Addiction Recovery Services division offers evidence-based treatments designed to help incarcerated individuals address substance use disorders. Focused on recovery, resilience, and relapse prevention, the division combines treatment, education, and support to promote personal growth and prepare individuals for successful reintegration into society.
- Mental Health Services
Mental Health Services
The Mental Health Services division provides comprehensive care for incarcerated individuals experiencing mental health challenges. By delivering compassionate, evidence-based interventions, the division promotes emotional well-being, stability, and resilience, contributing to both rehabilitation and safer, supportive environments within IDOC facilities.
- Physical Health Services
Physical Health Services
The Physical Health Services division ensures all incarcerated individuals have access to high-quality medical care. From preventative care to chronic disease management, the division promotes healthy living while addressing physical health needs to support rehabilitation and maintain a safer, more humane correctional environment.
- Transitional Healthcare Services
Transitional Healthcare Services
Established in 2019, Transitional Healthcare Services bridges the gap between incarceration and reentry by addressing the health-related social needs of individuals. The team creates individualized release plans that tackle social determinants of health, ensuring individuals are set up for success upon reentry and have access to necessary healthcare resources.
Transitional Health Facilitators
Transitional Health Facilitators support individuals transitioning from incarceration to the community by connecting them with healthcare services and resources. The program ensures continuity of care for managing physical and mental health needs, aiding successful reentry and long-term well-being.
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Transitional Health Liaisons
Transitional Health Liaisons facilitate the smooth transition from incarceration to community healthcare systems. They bridge healthcare gaps, coordinate resources, and offer guidance for individuals with ongoing physical or mental health needs, ensuring continuity of care and supporting successful re-entry.
Medicaid Applications
The Medicaid Applications program helps incarcerated individuals apply for Medicaid to ensure healthcare coverage upon release. By facilitating enrollment and connecting individuals to healthcare services, the program improves access to care and supports a smoother transition back into the community.
- Breann Leath Maternal Child Health Unit (MCHU)
Breann Leath Maternal Child Health Unit (MCHU)
The Breann Leath Mother-Child Housing Unit provides a nurturing environment for incarcerated mothers and their infants. Focused on strengthening the mother-child bond, promoting healthy development, and supporting rehabilitation, the program offers parenting education and resources to help mothers build a better future for themselves and their children. The program also works in partnership with various state agencies and community organizations such as the Indiana Diaper Bank and the Indiana Women's Fund to enhance services and ensure families have access to essential support both during and after incarceration.
- Staff Health & Wellness
Staff Health & Wellness
The Staff Health and Wellness division focuses on supporting the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of IDOC employees. Through resources, programs, and support services, the division promotes a healthy work environment, fostering resilience, reducing stress, and enhancing overall wellness to ensure staff can perform their roles effectively and sustainably.
Victoria Taylor-Wilcher
Quality Assurance Director
Victoria is the Quality Assurance Director for the Indiana Department of Correction, working within the Division of Administration and Programs. With over 20 years of experience, she began her career as a correctional staff member, focusing on safety and security procedures at the facility level. She later transitioned to the Re-Entry department, where she was promoted to Casework Manager, concentrating on community reintegration, program development, and performance monitoring. Victoria’s career evolved into staff-centered roles that focused on leadership development and enhancing career satisfaction. In her current role, she ensures that programs and projects align with the agency’s commitment to staff development and excellence. Victoria holds a B.A. in Sociology from Indiana University Northwest and is a graduate of the 2022 Leadership Academy and the 2023 IDOC Commissioner’s Experienced and Emerging Leadership Program.
Indiana Department of Correction