TDCJ News

29th Annual Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards

Jasper Priest Receives Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Award

TBCJ Chairman Eric Nichols, Father Ronald B. Foshage, Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott and TDCJ Executive Director (L-R).

(AUSTIN) – Ronald Foshage of Jasper, Texas, was presented the Restorative Justice 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 Texas Department of Criminal Justice (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.”

Foshage has served as a volunteer Catholic chaplain at the Goodman and Lewis Units, bringing spiritual guidance to inmates since 2004. Beyond his prison ministry and his role as priest at St. Michael’s since 1998, Foshage exemplifies selfless dedication. He dedicates countless hours each week cutting lawns for those in need, delivering food to the poor, and assisting with the construction of tiny homes for homeless veterans. In recognition of his efforts to heal a community fractured by a horrific hate crime, Foshage received the prestigious Lumen Christi Award from the Chicago-based Catholic Extension in 2020.

Foshage 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.