Governor Ivey Honors 101 New Correctional Officers at Montgomery Graduation

MONTGOMERY, AL - September 12, 2025

In a ceremony marked by pride and purpose, Governor Kay Ivey welcomed 101 newly certified Correctional Officers to the Alabama Governor's Mansion on Wednesday, celebrating their graduation from the Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) Academy. The event followed their formal commencement held Thursday morning at the Montgomery campus of Church of the Highlands.

Hal Yeager / Governor's Press Office

Governor Kay Ivey with ADOC academy graduates

The graduates-known as Correctional Officer Trainees (COTs)-successfully completed 10 consecutive weeks of rigorous instruction, earning their Alabama Peace Officers' Standards and Training Commission (APOSTC) certification. Their achievement marks a significant milestone in the state's ongoing efforts to strengthen correctional staffing and public safety infrastructure.

Hal Yeager / Governor's Press Office

Governor Kay Ivey with ADOC academy graduates

A Governor's Welcome

Governor Ivey personally greeted the graduates at the Mansion, commending their dedication and resilience. She praised ADOC Commissioner John Hamm and his staff for their continued success in recruiting at record levels, a critical priority for Alabama's correctional system.

Hal Yeager / Governor's Press Office

Governor Kay Ivey with ADOC academy graduates

"Not everyone can do what they do, and these 101 men and women are stepping up to meet that challenge," Governor Ivey said. "Corrections is a vital part of maintaining public safety in Alabama, and I am proud to see that we are continuing to recruit at record rates to strengthen our teams. I anticipate our next class to be our largest to date, so I only expect more growth. On behalf of Alabama, I thank and congratulate each of these men and women for answering the call to serve their communities and our state."

Her remarks were met with applause from the graduates, their families, and ADOC leadership, who gathered to celebrate the culmination of months of hard work and preparation.

Training and Certification

The ADOC Academy's 10-week curriculum includes physical conditioning, legal instruction, ethics, crisis intervention, and tactical readiness. Graduates are now certified to serve in correctional facilities across the state, where they will play a vital role in maintaining order, safety, and rehabilitation.

Commissioner Hamm noted that this graduating class represents one of the largest in recent history, reflecting the department's aggressive recruitment and retention efforts. "We're proud of these officers and the standards they've met. They're ready to serve, and Alabama is better for it," Hamm said.

Growth and Future Outlook

With correctional staffing shortages affecting facilities nationwide, Alabama's proactive approach has drawn attention. Governor Ivey's administration has prioritized workforce development in public safety, and the ADOC Academy's expansion is a key part of that strategy.

The governor hinted that the next class of trainees may be even larger, signaling continued momentum in building a robust and well-trained correctional workforce.

A Moment Captured

A commemorative photo of Governor Ivey with the graduating class was taken on the Mansion lawn, capturing the pride and unity of the occasion. Many of the new officers will begin assignments in the coming weeks, bringing fresh energy and commitment to correctional institutions across the state.

This ceremony not only honored the individual achievements of the 101 graduates but also reaffirmed Alabama's commitment to public safety, professional development, and community service. As these officers begin their careers, they carry with them the support of a grateful state and the responsibility of a vital mission.