JDCAP members and staff would like to formally recognize John Daly who is retiring from Erie County as Director of the Edmund L. Thomas Adolescent Center. John became familiar with JDCAP as he began his career in Erie County. As John rose in the ranks, he became very involved and supportive. He is one of the very few, who have actually retired from their position and made it through all the changes in their Counties, year after year.
He is originally from Delaware County and graduated from Monsignor Bonner. He came to Erie to go to the Mercyhurst Catholic College. As a senior sociology major at Mercyhurst, John did his internship at Edmund L Thomas Center and found his life's calling and stayed after graduation in 1975. He started working at the Thomas Center in 1976 as a juvenile counselor, was named assistant director in 1984 and center administrator in 1989. He earned his master's in guidance and counseling from Gannon University in 1984. He said to live in Erie, you must "embrace the cold", which he has. He cross country skis every day in the winner and also downhill skis. During the warm months, he bicycles and walks.
He had one of the very first Shelters in the State. He used it as a Mental Health Shelter. During his 37 year investment to the center he has been committed to the children and youth of the community, and his goal has been to be the catalyst that hopefully results in life-changing behavior.
John was awarded the James V Kinnane Award in 1998 via Mercyhurst College. It is one of the most prestigious awards of its kind in northwestern Pennsylvania, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of criminal justice.
John has been supportive and engaged as an active member of JDCAP and rarely missed meetings until travel restrictions impacted his ability to attend. He served on several committees, including the nominating committee for many years. Within the recent past John filled in as vice president when the association was in need.
He has always been far sighted, sees the big picture, knows the regulations inside and out and very interested in the well-being of the children. He is the antithesis of being correctional oriented. He has been a role model and has always been highly regarded in the Juvenile justice community.
John is married and has two adult children who live in the Philly area now. He vacations every year with his siblings and their families at the shore. He enjoys a good beer and he is a kind and great guy. He can always be counted on when folks need someone to talk or bounce off a few concerns.
Staff in Erie says HE FOUND HIS LIFES'S CALLING here at Edmund L.
On behalf of JDCAP members, staff and the whole juvenile justice community, thank you John for your dedication, leadership and support.
Take a break, it is well deserved!!!!