A Forty Year Journey in Corrections

In "A Forty Year Journey in Corrections," author Robert D. Hannigan, Sr. shares his most interesting stories from working within two of Kansas' correctional facilities. In "A Forty Year Journey in Corrections," Hannigan reflects on the hilarious, serious, and at times dangerous events he encountered throughout his career at the Kansas State Industrial Reformatory (now Hutchinson Correctional Facility) and the Kansas State Honor Camps. With the passing of four decades, Hannigan saw quite a few changes in the structure and organization of corrections in the sate of Kansas, and he describes how those changes in policy affected the staff as well as the inmates, giving readers an idea of how some convicts think and act, from amusing antics to violent gang fights. Hannigan also explores the "politics" of corrections, from the positive and negative results of external political selections to in-house practices such as favortism. Although offering insight into the challenges and hardships of working in corrections, Hannigan is quick to point out the personal rewards of assisting inmates through fair and reasonable treatment and by developing programs that woud benefit them upon release. Wildly original, "A Forty Year Journey in Corrections," appeals to anyone interested in what goes on behind bars.

Following an honorable discharge from the U.S. Marine Corps, Robert D. Hannigan Sr. began a career in corrections as a prison guard at the Kansas State Industrial Reformatory. Hannigan worked his way up the ranks, ultimately being promoted to warden, a position he held for over 30 years. A graduate of Washburn University of Topeka and Wichita State University, Hannigan is a past president of the Kansas Correctional Association and the North American Association of Wardens and Superintendents. He has been recognized by the Kansas House of Representatives and the Kansas State Senate for his work in corrections and was selected as Warden of the Year for North America by the North American Association of Wardens and Superintendents. Now retired, Hannigan resides in Hutchinson, Ks.