02 May UDC Announces Retirement of Executive Director Brian Nielson

DRAPER – The Utah Department of Corrections (UDC) announced the retirement of Executive Director Brian Nielson who has dedicated more than 26 years of public service to the state of Utah and served more than two years in his current position.

“We’re grateful for the contributions Brian has made to the state of Utah and appreciate his hard work and dedication,” said Gov. Cox. “Through a historic pandemic, an incredibly complex move to a new facility, and difficult staffing shortages, Brian showed leadership and perseverance through it all. We thank him for his service and wish him the very best in his retirement.”

In his time with UDC, Nielson has navigated the Department through the latter half of the COVID-19 pandemic, advocated for and received historic raises for correctional officers, and led the historic move of the Utah State Prison in Draper to the new prison facility in Salt Lake City.

“I am humbled by the opportunity I have had to serve alongside the dedicated individuals that comprise the Utah Department of Corrections,” Nielson said. “It has been an honor and a privilege to work with such a talented and devoted team, and I am proud of all that we have accomplished together.”

Prior to joining UDC, Sanpete County voters elected Brian Nielson to serve as Sheriff in 2010, a position in which he served for 10 years. Nielson has served in a variety of other law enforcement roles including juvenile probation officer, police officer, wildlife conservation officer, and school resource officer.

Nielson’s departure will be effective May 15, 2023.