The Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) announces that Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Supervisor Jennifer Hernandez is the 2025 Florida Sheriffs Association Civilian of the Year. This award recognizes exemplary service above self by a civilian employed at a Florida Sheriff’s office and is proudly sponsored by the Florida Sheriffs Risk Management Fund. 

“Jennifer has an extraordinary gift for turning challenges into opportunities for growth. Whether coordinating dozens of community partners, mentoring volunteers, or guiding inmates toward meaningful careers, she leads with empathy and excellence,” said Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma. “Her work is creating safer, stronger communities, and this statewide honor is a fitting tribute to her unwavering commitment and remarkable results.” 

Supervisor Jennifer Hernandez serves as the Inmate Programs Supervisor at the John E. Polk Correctional Facility with the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office in Sanford, Florida. With nearly 11 years of service, Hernandez has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of inmates and strengthening her community. 

Hernandez began her career as a preschool teacher, then spent three years as a Child Protective Investigator, where she ensured the safety and well-being of vulnerable children. Now in her role within Corrections, she manages over two dozen service contracts and oversees the inmate welfare budget, religious programming, volunteer coordination, and family services. She is known for her initiative, vision, and compassion. 

Among her most impactful efforts is the launch of the iBuild Pre-Apprenticeship Construction Trades Program. This hands-on training equips inmates with practical skills for entry-level positions in the construction industry. The program has already helped several participants secure employment after release, offering a second chance and a path forward. Beyond her core duties, Hernandez serves on the Staff Appreciation and Medically Assisted Treatment Committees, working to support both personnel and those in custody. Her leadership style is collaborative and respectful, consistently promoting a healthy and positive work culture. 

A published children’s author, Hernandez infuses creativity and empathy into all her efforts. Her book, The Timid Fuzzy Izzy, encourages kindness and emotional intelligence in young readers. Whether working with inmates or mentoring colleagues, she leads with heart, insight, and professionalism. 

“Supervisor Jennifer Hernandez embodies the spirit of service that the Florida Sheriffs Association seeks to recognize. Her vision for inmate programs is transforming lives and strengthening communities across our state,” said FSA Executive Director Matt Dunagan. “Jennifer’s dedication and compassion make her a model public‑safety professional, and we are proud to name her our Civilian of the Year.” 

Known as a dependable leader and a trusted colleague, Supervisor Hernandez continues to go above and beyond. Her dedication to rehabilitation, education, and service makes her an outstanding representative of the Civilian of the Year Award.

“It is an honor for the Florida Sheriffs Risk Management Fund to have this opportunity to sponsor the Florida Sheriffs Association’s Civilian of the Year Award,” said Florida Sheriffs Risk Management Fund Executive Director Don Eslinger. “Jennifer Hernandez’ tireless efforts and dedication to the vision of the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office is not only worthy of this recognition but genuinely exemplifies true servant leadership as embodied by her initiative, vision, and compassion. On behalf of the entire Florida Sheriffs Risk Management Fund Team, we offer our heartfelt congratulations.” 

For more information, watch the official video here: https://youtu.be/Qb0Bchwp3Qk 

###

About Florida Sheriffs Association:
The Florida Sheriffs Association is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 corporation made up of the Sheriffs of Florida, approximately 3,000 business leaders and 100,000 citizens throughout the state. Founded in 1893, FSA has steadfastly served the citizens of Florida by supporting the needs of the state’s law enforcement community. Through the Florida Sheriffs Association, Sheriffs are given a forum to address lawmakers to push for positive changes in Florida’s public safety arena. FSA also provides Sheriffs’ Offices much-needed programs such as affordable training, special task forces and legislative and legal services. Dedicated to the prevention of juvenile delinquency and the development of lawful, productive citizens, FSA has established and funded the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches with facilities throughout the state to help restore hope, fulfill dreams, and prepare boys and girls for the future. It has grown to be one of the largest and most successful state law enforcement associations in the nation. For more information on the Florida Sheriffs Association, visit www.flsheriffs.org.

About the Florida Sheriffs Risk Management Fund: 
The Florida Sheriffs Risk Management Fund (FSRMF), created and owned by Florida Sheriffs, provides customized and affordable liability, automobile and workers’ compensation coverages to Florida Sheriff’s offices. The FSRMF, which originally offered liability coverage, was established in 1978 and currently insures 59 Sheriffs’ offices. The FSRMF is managed by a Board of Managers comprised of Sheriffs elected by the membership. The day-to-day operations are handled by a professional team of dedicated underwriting, claims and risk control employees of FSRMF who have extensive working knowledge in law enforcement. Learn more at www.fsrmf.org.