Solano County honors probation chief Dean Wilder on 30 years of service

The Solano County Board of Supervisors on Jan. 14 adopted a resolution and presented a plaque honoring Dean Wilder on his retirement after 30 years with the Probation Department.

Chair Mashburn read the resolution, recounting Wilder’s career milestones — beginning as a deputy probation officer in 1994, promotions to supervising deputy and probation services manager, work on juvenile placement and the juvenile detention facility, development of the RISE youth program and a barber's college, and leadership of the department’s peer support and awards committees. The board formally ordered the resolution by roll call vote. "Mister Wilder retired on 12/28/2024 leaving behind a legacy of outstanding service to the department," the chair read.

Shawna Albright, chief deputy of probation, thanked Wilder for a leadership style staff repeatedly cited in internal committees and peer-support efforts. Albright said, "One of his best attributes was his positive attitude and his willingness to help others," and described Wilder as a "rock star" who shepherded staff through operational challenges.

Wilder, addressing the board and the assembled probation staff and family, reflected on collaboration and gratitude: "As I stand here this morning, I am filled with mixed emotions, gratitude, joy, and a little disbelief that this chapter of my life has come to an end." He thanked family members in the audience and colleagues who supported his work. The board recognized Wilder with applause and remarks from fellow supervisors praising his mentoring and programmatic improvements in juvenile services.

The resolution and plaque mark a formal recognition of Wilder’s tenure; no policy actions were taken as part of the item.