TDCJ News
TDCJ Restructuring to Align With 2030 Goals
October 16, 2024
Dear TDCJ Community,
I wanted to take a moment to share some exciting news and updates regarding the agency.
I'm pleased to report that the Texas Board of Criminal Justice recently approved a restructuring that aligns our agency with our 2030 strategic goals and the recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission. Today, I am happy to provide you with more details that will position us for a strong future.
So, what's changing? To optimize our operations and enhance overall efficiency, we have made the strategic decision to realign various functions. This move not only presents new opportunities for some employees to transition into different roles or integrate into other teams but also strengthens our already exceptional team, positioning us favorably for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
Allow me to introduce the new management structure, which includes three agency Section Chiefs.
- Chief Financial Officer, Ron Steffa, will continue in his current role.
- Chief Programs Officer.
- Chief Operations Officer.
In addition, Oscar Mendoza is transitioning to a new office under the Human Resources Division that will focus on coaching, employee retention and wellness. We thank him for his continued service and dedication to the agency in this new capacity.
Additionally, as per the Sunset recommendation, we have created the Office of Strategic Initiatives and Modernization, led by Andy Barbee. This office will lead the charge in identifying, prioritizing, and implementing initiatives aimed at advancing the agency.
The Sunset Commission also advises merging the Rehabilitation Programs and the Reentry and Integration Divisions to establish the new Rehabilitation and Reentry Division, which will be headed by April Zamora. This merger will enhance the programming and services offered to inmates to aid them on their journey of rehabilitation. Furthermore, we are excited to announce the creation of three new divisions: the Chaplaincy and Volunteer Services Division, led by Chris Carter; the Business and Finance Division; and the Classification and Transportation Division.
To streamline our operations further, the Private Facility Contract Monitoring and Oversight Division will be dissolved, with its responsibilities divided among the Correctional Institutions Division, Rehabilitation and Reentry Programs Division, and the Parole Division. We accomplished this goal with no impact to staff.
This period of transition presents us with an incredible opportunity to tap into fresh energy, ideas, and perspectives, enabling us to achieve real and sustainable change. Together, we have the power to achieve incredible things when we unite with a shared mission, clear strategy, and a culture that brings out the best in each of us.
I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. Your dedication and hard work are vital in transforming lives for a better Texas and protecting the public of our great state. You are the heart of this agency, and we couldn't do it without you.
Thank you for all that you do to fulfill our mission.