TDCJ News

27th Annual Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards

Waco Woman Receives Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Award

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

(AUSTIN) – Nellie Lisenby of Waco, Texas was presented the Leonard Davis Award for Most Hours Served 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.

The award is named in recognition of Leonard Davis who passed away in 2009. He was the honored recipient of this award in 2005, 2007, 2008 and posthumously in 2010 when the award was re-named in his honor.

Ms. Lisenby’s self-sacrificing love for others has been evident in numerous ways during her years of service to the Hobby Unit. She has freely and faithfully given over 700 hours of her time and resources during FY2021 to be of help in any and every way where there is a need; be it to show appreciation to staff members or simply offer a compassionate and listening ear to an inmate grieving the loss of a loved one. “Ms. Nellie” is always quick to be available without reserve. Every person that she encounters is made to know that they are valued and are better for the time that they’ve spent with her.

Ms. Lisenby is one of 17 individuals and 5 organizations from across the state recognized for their efforts to help offenders 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.