Page 2 - Probation Today Spring 2022

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LETTER FROM THE CHIEF

If you ask ten people what leadership means, you will likely
get ten different responses. Some will say that it is pushing
people toward the next goal. Others may say it is influencing
colleagues toward particular outcomes. Some feel that
leadership is about having a vision or setting a defined course.
All of these definitions are valid in ordinary times.

During a pandemic, it could be argued that some of the
skillsets we all rely on to get our work done as leaders went
right out the window. Much of our work became about crisis
response in the moment – demand staffing, answering
questions, rearranging our work until we adapted to the new
normal. It is rare for a leader to understand in time of crisis,
one must do more than react; one must act proactively,
anticipating the next disaster. Looking outward to the needs
of the community and other agencies and encouraging the CHIEF PROBATION OFFICER
natural helping the opportunity to assist. Pivoting before TANJA HEITMAN
being asked – to serve not just the needs of one’s unit or
agency but the needs of the Department or county as a whole. Using forced change for one’s benefit,
improving what exists, and creating what does not; this is the hallmark of an extraordinary leader.

More than this, the very best leaders keep going. They overcome their exhaustion and encourage others who
are just as weary and looking toward their leadership to keep them going. They model what is expected by
showing up, staying positive, and encouraging others to see old problems with fresh perspectives. They don’t
accept excuses; instead, they encourage persistence.

For those of us within the Probation Department, we have had the opportunity to see these traits in our
leaders. We have seen them reach out to other departments to lighten their burdens and make our collective
work easier. They have contributed resources with the understanding that although our core mandates are
important, service to the community takes many forms, some more urgent than others. They put their own
needs aside to ensure the Department maintains a steady course, and that they were there for those who
needed them. They did not focus on what could not be done; only on finding solutions and what is possible
so that our vision for what could happen eventually became a reality – to the amazement of many who did
not see how it could be done.

In times of crisis, steady leadership is precious, but a leader who is steady and transformative is rare. Even
during a crisis, the Probation Department has managed to make some far-reaching positive changes that will
impact the work of this Department for years to come. It is because of the many leaders – those identified
by rank and position as well as those identified by their influence – that the Department has seized the
moment. As we come out of the urgency of the pandemic and transition into the new normal, let us commit
to continuing to support all leaders in the Department that inspire us by giving so much, pushing forward,
taking chances, and embracing change. Day in and day out, they are doing their part to create a better future
for all of us!

Special thanks to Holly Benton for her contribution to this to this edition's Letter from the Chief.

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