TDCJ News

IMPACT Consortium Holds First Meeting

April 7, 2026

Members of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) IMPACT Consortium* held their initial meeting on March 30, kicking off their six-month term of the pilot program designed to provide feedback to improve the agency. This first-of-its-kind group consists of four members from TDCJ, one member from the Office of the Independent Ombudsman and two members elected by advocacy organizations.

"The IMPACT Consortium, a groundbreaking initiative by TDCJ, has the potential to maximize mission accomplishment. By including advocates for system upgrades in discussions about policies and programs, a new door has been opened that expands the possibility of evidence-based change," Wolf Sittler, volunteer for Social Purpose Connections, said.

During the meeting, the advisory board reviewed and prioritized suggestions submitted by members of advocacy organizations. The group will select a few of the topics submitted and develop recommendations for agency leadership to consider. Currently, members are gathering information from their respective stakeholders to make an informed decision on the final list of topics to review.

“It’s important that spaces like this exist, especially when they create opportunities for community voices to be part of the conversation,” Justin Martinez, Justice Advocate Coordinator for LatinoJustice PRLDEF, said. “For me, this is a chance to help surface what impacted people are experiencing and to support efforts that move toward reducing harm and strengthening accountability and transparency within the system.”

Members were happy to learn that many of the suggestions submitted were already in progress. This provided an opportunity for agency representatives to explain initiatives currently underway.

“This first meeting set a strong foundation for collaboration between the agency and the advocacy members,” TDCJ Chief of Staff Rachelle White said. “The pivotal insight from all members allowed us to reexamine current procedures from new angles. I am excited for these next few months as the recommendations from the group will undoubtedly improve processes for all involved.”

*The IMPACT (Inmate Management, Partnership for Accountability, Collaboration and Transparency) Consortium is an advisory body that unites stakeholders from diverse sectors and disciplines to advance understanding, safety, and transparency in corrections and community supervision. The consortium provides a constructive platform for discussion, collaboration, and thoughtful resolution of complex matters within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, producing practical recommendations that support informed decision-making, enhance public safety, and promote continuous improvement.