My name is Stacy Catlett and I serve as a Specialist II in the Human Resources Office at the South Mississippi Correctional Institution (SMCI). I have worked for the MDOC for almost six years and have enjoyed my experience with the agency and the opportunity to serve.

I have held several positions including Contract Switchboard Operator, Records Technician II, and Personnel Officer IV. Currently, I handle orientation for new employees and the entry of new hires into the personnel system and their paperwork. I help employees with changes to their taxes, insurance, direct deposit, and beneficiary information. I also assist employees who call or visit the personnel office.

Joining the MDOC gave me opportunities to improve my career through promotions. I came to this area from the South Mississippi town of Gautier when my husband was transferred with his job to Sandhill, Miss. I looked for employment online and SMCI was looking for a switchboard operator. After getting into the institution, I decided to seek a position with benefits and was hired for a position in the Records Department. After completing my bachelor’s degree, I was fortunate to be hired in Human Resources.

Serving at SMCI has allowed me to enjoy the other employees I work with and the friends I have made. It also allows me to stay close to my home which is only 10 minutes from the facility.

Some of the best parts of working here include the friendships made along the way, and the ability to help employees with their benefits. MDOC offers many benefits to their employees. Insurance for the employee is extremely reasonable, retirement match is almost double the amount the employee contributes, the pay for officers has increased considerably since January of 2022, and the offer of reasonably priced dental and vision insurance, as well as other types of insurance.