Prior to joining the PEF staff as Director of Special Events, Barbara Corse-Johnson worked as a Senior Parole Officer for the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. She began her parole officer career in 1992 and worked in several units within the agency, including the Robbery Unit, the Special Offenders Unit (SOU), the Interstate Unit, the Reentry Court Unit, and the Command Center. Before retiring in March 2020, Corse-Johnson was a supervisor in the SOU in the Bronx field office for eight years.
While working daily as a parole officer and senior parole officer, she served as a PEF Steward and was very involved in the union as the Secretary, Treasurer, and Assistant Council Leader for PEF Division 236 (Statewide Parole). In 2015, Corse-Johnson became a trustee with the Membership Benefits Program; in 2016, she became the Assistant Convention Committee Chair; and in 2018 became the Convention Committee chair, a position she maintained until retirement.
“My vision for the Special Events department is to establish it as a department service hub for union members and staff,” she said. “I aim to infuse vitality into our events, ensuring that each occasion we plan or organize creates lasting memories. Drawing from my experiences as the past chair of the Convention for five years, I have witnessed significant improvements in the management of conventions and am committed to further developing the department.
“My goal is to foster creativity in our approach to conventions, meetings, and conferences, ensuring we accomplish our objectives while enjoying the camaraderie of our union,” she said. “Together, we will advance, grow, and strengthen the foundation for future generations, leaving a meaningful legacy behind.”
She stressed that the Special Events Department is dedicated to assisting members in planning and organizing events.
“Our primary focus is to support the union’s objectives and bring your vision for meetings, conferences, or parties to life,” she said. “As an extension of the union, we handle various logistics, including travel arrangements, accommodations, global air travel and the reservation of meting spaces. Additionally, we can coordinate catering options, whether it’s a full meal for your gathering or light snack to keep the attendees energized and content. We are committed to ensuring that all members and staff have a successful and enjoyable event or meeting.”