CEC’s own Arthur Townes, Director of New Jersey Alumni Services, was honored with the 2016 Dean James Plummer Award on May 4 by Rutgers University Newark, for exemplifying great social work principles in his work with offenders in the field of reentry. This spring Mr. Townes celebrates his graduation from Rutgers after achieving his Bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW) degree. The award is presented to a social work student with a strong academic record whose activities enhance community life.
James I. Plummer, the award’s namesake was an administrator, counselor and community activist known for his deep commitment to social work and his support for youth in urban communities. In addition to his roles in the field of education, Mr. Plummer worked with the offender population in an effort to bring about change to those in the criminal justice system.
“I am extremely humbled to be the recipient of the Dean James Plummer Award, a great advocate of helping those in need” said Mr. Townes. “I only hope to be as influential in the lives of others as Mr. Plummer has been in mine.”
Mr. Townes is steadfast in his efforts to promote the relevance of alumni services for those reentering society from CEC’s reentry facilities. He never tires from helping others continue their path to a positive lifestyle, demonstrating through his own effort that recovery and success are attainable with supportive programming and the fellowship of peers.
He is responsible for developing successful alumni communities at many CEC reentry facilities, and remains available to those reentering society that serve many needs; finding 12-step recovery groups, housing and employment information, and family support services. Alumni members attend meetings at facilities and speak with current residents, sharing their experience and hope that a better life is possible.
The CEC Alumni program is the aftercare component of the CEC Reentry Treatment model. It consists of former offenders that provide assistance to individuals as they transition from treatment back into the community, offering guidance and information useful in reentry.
Mr. Townes has performed extensive community outreach work with CEC’s Alumni Services and after graduation plans to continue his career in the field of social work. He received his award at the 2016 Annual Awards Banquet at Rutgers Newark, where he was joined that night by his field instructor, Director of Internship/Deputy Director of Treatment at CEC’s Logan Hall Daniela LaValva, and his partner and wife Valerie Bowen-Townes. The award was presented to him by Dr. Phyllis Peterman, Dean of the Social Work department at the Newark Campus.
CEC is a leading national provider of rehabilitative services for offenders in reentry and in-prison treatment facilities, as well as providing comprehensive management of county, state, and federal jail and detention facilities. The Company provides evidence-based programming for residential and non-residential clients and maintains a documented record of reducing recidivism. CEC services also include drug and alcohol testing by SECON, our comprehensive drug testing and screening company that provides services worldwide.
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!! Mr. Townes.
Congratulations my Brother!!! Keep up the good work, re-entry services and ex-offenders all over truly appreciate your efforts and dedication to helping others successfully re-enter society…
IM SO PROUD OF YOU…..YOU ARE MY HOPE AND INSPIRATION, AND IM SO GLAD TO HAVE YOU AS A FRIEND.
Congratulations Mr.Townes you wouldn’t understand how much motivation this is for me. Being enrolled in UCC and pursuing the same degree in Social Work. I’m glad to say that I have met you personally, and I plan on talking more with you soon. This world need more like you!!
Congratulations! Mr. Townes
Mr. Towns, AKA Towns,
I first want to congratulate you for all of your accomplishments thus far. You are a good leader and friend as well as an example for those who seek a positive lifestyle upon their reentry into society. I am proud to know you and ecstatic to say, I too got with the program in living a positive lifestyle in my journey.
Congratulations, Mr. Townes on receiving this award and completing your degree!!!
That’s great Mr. Townes you are an inspiration to us all. Congrats !!!!
Congrats Mr. Townes!
Outstanding accomplishment and well deserved!