For Koonce, Fond du Lac County Jail Ad Hoc Committee is Personal

For Dr. George Koonce, being appointed chair of the Fond du Lac County Jail Ad Hoc Committee, is personal.

"I've seen firsthand the devastating impact of incarceration on families and communities. My own sibling has been incarcerated, and I've witnessed the toll it took on my mother's mental and physical health," said Dr. Koonce, Senior Vice President of University Relations at Marian University and a former Green Bay Packer. "This personal experience fuels my commitment to creating a more just and compassionate system."

Dr. Koonce was recently appointed Chair of the Fond du Lac County Jail Ad Hoc Committee, which will explore options for Fond du Lac County's 70-year old jail. Dr. Koonce brings a unique perspective to this vital role, from both his professional career and personal experiences.

The committee faces the complex challenge of building a new, expanded county jail to replace the current one. Dr. Koonce is committed to ensuring that the dignity and the diverse needs of all individuals are considered in the decision-making process. "Female inmates have specific privacy needs that must be addressed," he said. "Prioritizing fairness and inclusivity is at the core of our mission."

Drawing from his time in the NFL, Dr. Koonce highlights the importance of teamwork and collective effort, values that will guide his leadership of the committee. "As a former Green Bay Packer, I learned the value of teamwork and the importance of every individual's contribution. Our locker room mantra, 'every person matters every day,' resonates deeply with me."

Dr. Koonce urges the community to engage in the process by attending upcoming meetings of the Fond du Lac County Jail Ad Hoc Committee, which are open to the public. The next one is Thursday,October 3, 2024 at 1:00 PM. The location is the City-County Government Center, 160 South Macy Street, Room H, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin 54935.

"Your input will shape our recommendations and help us create a system that truly serves everyone. Remember, every person matters every day - let's work together to build a better future for our community," he said.