TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE

HEART Launched as New Core Values

June 19, 2026

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) is proud to announce the launch of its newly defined core values: HEART.

Honor:  Serve with pride, principle, and responsibility.

Empathy:  Show every individual dignity and kindness.

Accountability:  Take ownership of our actions through transparency and a commitment to doing what is right.

Respect:  Treat every person with professionalism and respect.

Trust:  Build and uphold our credibility through consistency, honesty, and integrity.

The previous core values were established a decade ago. In that time, the field of corrections and the agency have changed significantly. While presenting the new values at the June meeting of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice, TDCJ Executive Director Bobby Lumpkin underscored the importance of rehabilitation to the agency’s mission of public safety.

“Rehabilitation is not simply a goal—it is an essential part of public safety,” Lumpkin said. “The work we do still requires strength, discipline, and commitment, but it also demands empathy, accountability, and trust.”

According to Lumpkin, these new core values reflect the reality of modern corrections.

“Staff can set firm boundaries, follow policies and maintain security while still treating people with dignity, consistency, and fairness,” Lumpkin said. “By using calm communication, de-escalation techniques, and professional conduct we can prevent incidents, reduce tension, and support rehabilitation.”

Moving forward, TDCJ will integrate these core values into all aspects of operations, including training, hiring and performance expectations.