TDCJ News

TDCJ Director Andrew Barbee Receives 2024 Peter P. Lejins Research Award

January 13, 2025

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) is proud to announce that Andrew Barbee, director of the Office of Strategic Initiatives and Modernization, was selected as the recipient of the American Correctional Association’s 2024 Peter P. Lejins Research Award. This prestigious honor recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of corrections and was presented on January 12 during the 2025 Winter Conference in Orlando, Florida.

Barbee brings an extensive policy and research background in correctional, court, and legislative processes to his role as director of Strategic Initiatives and Modernization for TDCJ. Since joining the agency in October 2019 to stand up a new research and development department, Barbee has been instrumental in helping the agency address challenges like staff retention, program evaluation and inmate risk assessment. His dedication to advancing correctional practices and his commitment to research and innovation have significantly impacted the Texas correctional system and beyond.

“Andrew Barbee has been instrumental in implementing strategic initiatives that enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the TDCJ. His efforts have not only improved operational processes but have also fostered a culture of continuous improvement within the agency. The Peter P. Lejins Research Award is a testament to his commitment to research-driven practices in corrections,” TDCJ Executive Director Bryan Collier said.

The award is given in memory of pioneering researcher Peter Lejins and is the highest honor bestowed on a corrections researcher by the national association. Barbee’s selection for this award underscores his exemplary work and the positive changes he has fostered within the TDCJ.

“I am humbled to receive the Peter P. Lejins award. My passion has always been to help protect the public, create opportunities and rebuild lives, and this profession has afforded me so many amazing chances to be part of something much bigger than myself,” Barbee said. “I am truly grateful to all the men and women who put their lives on the line every day for us. I hope my attempts to contribute have been a fraction as meaningful as the efforts of our officers.”