Colette Peters Wikipedia, Biography
Colette S. Peters is an American corrections official who served as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) from August 2, 2022, until her resignation on January 20, 2025. Prior to her federal appointment, she was the Director of the Oregon Department of Corrections (ODOC) for a decade, where she developed the “Oregon Way,” focusing on creating a more humane prison environment.
During her tenure at the BOP, Peters faced significant challenges, including staffing shortages and operational issues. In September 2023, she testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee, where senators criticized her for a lack of transparency, stating it hindered their efforts to address problems within the agency.
In April 2024, she made the controversial decision to shut down the Federal Correctional Institution in Dublin, California, due to persistent cultural issues and allegations of staff misconduct.
Peters resigned from her position as BOP Director on January 20, 2025, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s inauguration. William Lothrop, the Deputy Director, was appointed as the acting director following her departure.
Early Life and Education
Born in Milbank, South Dakota, Colette Peters was raised in a family with six siblings, including five sisters. She pursued higher education at the College of Saint Benedict, graduating in 1993. Her academic journey continued at the University of Colorado Denver, where she earned a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice. These formative years laid the foundation for her future endeavors in the corrections field.
Professional Career
Oregon Department of Corrections
Colette Peters began her notable career in corrections with the Oregon Department of Corrections (ODOC). In 2012, she made history by becoming the first woman to serve as the Director of ODOC. During her decade-long leadership, she oversaw 14,700 incarcerated individuals across 14 prisons, managed a biennial budget of $2 billion, and led a workforce of 4,700 employees. Peters introduced the “Oregon Way,” a visionary approach aimed at humanizing correctional environments and emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment.
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Federal Bureau of Prisons
On August 2, 2022, Colette Peters was sworn in as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons by Attorney General Merrick Garland. In this role, she assumed responsibility for 122 BOP facilities, six regional offices, two staff training centers, and 22 residential reentry management offices. Her leadership encompassed the oversight of approximately 35,000 staff members and the management of 160,000 federal inmates. Peters’ tenure at the BOP was marked by efforts to address systemic challenges, including staffing shortages and operational issues.
Departure from the Federal Bureau of Prisons
In January 2025, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s inauguration, Colette Peters resigned from her position as Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The resignation was reported on January 21, 2025, with no specific reasons provided for her departure. William Lothrop, who had been serving as Deputy Director, was appointed as the acting director of the BOP following her resignation.
Personal Life
Details regarding Colette Peters’ personal life, including her marital status, husband, and children, are not publicly disclosed. She has maintained a focus on her professional responsibilities, with limited information available about her private affairs.
Net Worth and Salary
Specific figures concerning Colette Peters’ net worth and salary have not been publicly disclosed. As a public servant, her compensation would have been aligned with federal pay scales applicable to her position.
Political Affiliation
Colette Peters has not publicly declared any political affiliations. Her career has been characterized by a commitment to corrections reform and public safety, transcending partisan considerations.
Conclusion
Colette S. Peters’ career reflects a steadfast dedication to reforming correctional systems and promoting humane practices within the realm of public safety. Her leadership in both Oregon and at the federal level has left an indelible mark on the field of corrections, underscoring the importance of rehabilitation and staff welfare in the pursuit of justice.
FAQs
Who is Colette S. Peters?
Colette S. Peters is a seasoned corrections professional who has served as the Director of the Oregon Department of Corrections and the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
What is the “Oregon Way” introduced by Colette Peters?
The “Oregon Way” is an approach developed by Peters focusing on humanizing correctional environments and emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment.
When did Colette Peters become the Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons?
She was sworn in as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons on August 2, 2022.
Why did Colette Peters resign from the Federal Bureau of Prisons?
Colette Peters resigned from her position in January 2025, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s inauguration. No specific reasons were provided for her resignation.
Who succeeded Colette Peters as the acting director of the BOP?
William Lothrop, who had been serving as Deputy Director, was appointed as the acting director following her resignation.
What was Colette Peters’ role in the Oregon Department of Corrections?
She served as the Director of the Oregon Department of Corrections from 2012 to 2022, overseeing 14 prisons and approximately 14,700 incarcerated individuals.
Has Colette Peters disclosed her political affiliation?
No, Colette Peters has not publicly declared any political affiliations.
What educational background does Colette Peters have?
She graduated from the College of Saint Benedict in 1993 and earned a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice from the University of Colorado Denver.
What is Colette Peters known for in her professional career?
She is recognized for her reformative approach in corrections, particularly for introducing the “Oregon Way” and emphasizing rehabilitation and humane treatment within correctional facilities.