TDCJ News

27th Annual Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards

Brazoria Man Receives Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Award

TDCJ Executive Director Bryan Collier, Greg Smith, Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott, and TBCJ Chairman Patrick O'Daniel (l-r).

(AUSTIN) – Greg Smith of Brazoria, Texas was presented the Chaplaincy Department award during the Governor’s 2022 Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards program today.

The award was presented by Texas Board of Criminal Justice Chairman Patrick O’Daniel and TDCJ Executive Director Bryan Collier at a ceremony in Austin.

“These individuals have gone above and beyond in their volunteer efforts. No words or awards will be enough thanks for these individuals. We are grateful they decided to use their time and talents for good at TDCJ,” said O’Daniel.

“TDCJ and this state are better because of these award recipients. They are heroes who are making a profound and lasting impact on the lives of so many across the Lone Star State,” said Collier.

Pastor Greg Smith has been a great asset to not only the inmates, but the staff and officers of the Clemens Unit since 2016. He is always ready to serve the unit teaching classes, sponsoring events such as “Day with Dad” and “Day with Mom”, organizing staff appreciation meals and working on a staff family day for the Clemens Unit. All these activities are in addition to the weekly ministry classes he leads, as well as the programs such as “Lead Like Jesus” and “Prison Fellow Youth Academy” that he assists in teaching. He spends countless hours in his classes and still makes himself available for any ministry that requires assistance, even aiding in mentoring the Field Ministers. Through his aid, the unit was able to acquire 250 pew chairs after the old pews were removed, making the chapel a better area for worship services, as well as an area to host activities. Pastor Smith is tireless in his regard for the mental, physical and spiritual welfare of the inmates and staff.

Pastor Greg Smith is one of 17 individuals and 5 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 the lives of convicted offenders, and aiding and comforting their victims.

In FY2021, there were 21,310 volunteers who provided a total of 47,290 hours of service.

Note to media: For more information, contact Robert Hurst at (936) 437-6052 or by e-mail at robert_hurst@tdcj.texas.gov.