Justice and Public Safety Cabinet
Diana McGuire named acting deputy commissioner for Juvenile Justice

FRANKFORT, KY – Justice and Public Safety Secretary J. Michael Brown recently announced that Diana McGuire has been appointed acting deputy commissioner of operations for the Department of Juvenile Justice.

McGuire’s experience in working with troubled youth spans nearly 40 years.  She has served as division director for the department, responsible for overall administration of the Eastern Region Division for Juvenile Justice, since 2001, and was the regional facility administrator for the eastern region prior to that.  

Her career in juvenile justice began in 1973, as a summer worker at a 50-bed boys’ residential program, where she provided educational tutoring and direct shift supervision.  She was later hired as a juvenile counselor at the Morehead Youth Development Center, and later promoted to director and later superintendent of the facility.

“Diana has a clear commitment to the youth of our commonwealth, and her extensive background with the department makes her an ideal choice for the role,” Secretary Brown said.

“It is a tremendous honor to be chosen for this position.  I have always believed it was a privilege to have the opportunity to help our young people become happy, productive citizens,” McGuire said.  “I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and continuing the mission of DJJ in this new capacity.”  

McGuire holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in corrections from Eastern Kentucky University, and served as an adjunct professor at Morehead State University for more than 10 years.  In addition to her administrative roles with DJJ, she has represented the department on numerous committees, task forces and council.

A strong advocate for the humane treatment of animals and the positive effects they can have on people, she also volunteers at the local humane society along with several DJJ youth performing community service project.