TDCJ News

29th Annual Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards

San Antonio Woman Receives Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Award

TBCJ Chairman Eric Nichols, Emilie Softly, Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott and TDCJ Executive Director (L-R).

(AUSTIN) – Emilie Softly of San Antonio, Texas, was presented the Parole Division’s Nancy Hees Award during the 29th Annual Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards Ceremony today.

The award was presented by Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott, Texas Board of Criminal Justice Chairman Eric Nichols, and TDCJ Executive Director Bryan Collier at a ceremony in Austin.

“These award recipients, by volunteering countless hours, are helping to build a better Texas for themselves and everyone whose lives they touch,” Nichols said. “It is an honor to recognize them for their hard work and dedication.”

“These volunteers are true heroes,” Collier said. “Their compassion and commitment make a profound and lasting difference in the lives of many Texans. TDCJ, and the entire state, is better because of their service.”

Softly, a licensed substance use counselor, has volunteered at the San Antonio I Metro Parole Office since 2004. She provides invaluable weekly assistance during the new arrival orientation, where she helps alleviate the anxiety that clients may experience as they navigate their criminal justice journey.

The award is named in recognition of Hees who passed away in February 2005 after a courageous battle with cancer. Hees, a TDCJ employee at the time of her death, worked in the Parole Division admirably for more than 14 years. Her dynamic character and devotion to helping others positively influenced the lives of many parolees and their families. Her heartfelt compassion and generosity built a bridge of communication between parolees and the agency’s administration and established the Division’s Ombudsman’s Office as a reliable information resource for inmate families.

Softly was one of 22 individuals and organizations from across the state recognized for their efforts to help inmates and those who are on parole or probation. They donate many hours of their personal time every year with the goal of changing lives.