Covering Crime and Corrections in Walla Walla

Class 41 Crime and Corrections Seminar

Last month, AgForestry Class 41 spent a few foggy days in Walla Walla learning about crime, punishment and the judicial system. The Class heard from several speakers who broadened their perspectives of the challenges facing Washington State corrections. Class members also received a first-hand look at incarceration with a tour of the Washington State Penitentiary.

Retired Judge Robert Zagelow, Leadership Class 4, discussed sentencing guidelines with the class.

Here’s what class members said:

How we treat those who make mistakes is integrally linked to our leadership styles and it’s worth all of us taking hard looks at how we may support the system that exists, and what it could take to better it for all people involved.

From a leadership perspective, I learned we always have the ability to plant seeds. We may feel as though our daily efforts fall short or aren't heard. However, in the long run, planted ideas can become larger than we might initially think.

The concepts of growth can be applied to a leader in their role to helping people grow by understanding why they act the way they do and not punishing but challenging them to grow into better members of our society.

As a leader, some of my actions are considered punishment or correction. I now view these actions in a much broader and more thorough way. I was especially prompted by this seminar to ask and answer the question: "Why punish?"

Walla Walla Prosecuting Attorney Jim Nagel gives the class a run down on the prosecution flow chart.

Ben Cochrane, Class 41, and Andrew Engell, Class 42, chat about their leadership development at the Reception, hosted by Reininger Winery and Area Alumni.

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