Gov. Murphy Appoints Six To The Edna Mahan Correctional Facility Board of Trustees.

“Governor Phil Murphy today announced the groundbreaking appointments of Dr. Amesika Nyaku, Tia Ryans, Dr. Johanna Foster, Bonnie Kerness, La’Nae Grant, and Kathleen Witcher to the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women Board of Trustees. The Governor also reappointed Dr. Karma Brown Warren.”

“These appointments, combined with the many other reforms and efforts made under our Administration, will effectuate improvement in oversight of the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility,” said Governor Murphy. “These women are all extraordinary individuals in their own fields, and combined, their expertise will benefit women under the care of the State. I look forward to working with Amesika, Tia, Johanna, Bonnie, La’Nae, Kathleen, and Karma on important prison reform efforts as we move to responsibly close this facility.”

Edna Mahan will close after years of escapees and abuse allegations from prisoners who alleged guards physically and sexually abused them for years. Governor Murphy ordered the prison to close as recently reported by Morristown Minute. The appointment of these six board members will charge them with overseeing the state’s only women’s correctional facility as it prepares to close its doors.

“We are thrilled to welcome this powerhouse group of dynamic, influential, and inspirational leaders to the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women Board of Trustees," said Acting Department of Corrections Commissioner Victoria L. Kuhn, Esq. "In partnership with the committed public service leaders of the NJDOC, the Board is poised to effectuate positive and meaningful change focused on safety and reintegration.”

"I am concerned about bringing a better climate to Edna Mahan Correctional Facilities that promotes conditions, training, and supports to the incarcerated women that aide them in preparing for productive lives when they are released from prison," said Kathleen Witcher.

“EMCFBOT has great potential to positively affect the lives of women who are facing some of life’s greatest challenges. Our Board’s role is vital to the rehabilitative and restorative element of this institution,” said Dr. Karma Brown Warren. “The effectiveness of our work can be a game changer to the families whose mothers, daughters, sisters and partners reside in this facility. I am thankful to Governor Murphy for appointing me to serve another term on the Edna Mahon Correctional Facility Board of Directors and consider it an honor."

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