Sometimes the career we are meant to have is the one we never expected.

For Joann Savage, what began as a decision to provide financial stability for her three children became a calling she now proudly embraces.

The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation is proud to recognize Sergeant Joann Savage of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice as a 2026 CPOF scholarship recipient.

In 2020, Joann entered corrections after working as a teacher’s aide in Texas. As a newly single mother of three, she was searching for a career that could provide security for her family. She admits that she initially joined the profession for financial reasons—but it didn’t take long for her perspective to change.

“Within my first year, my perspective shifted completely. I developed a deep sense of pride in wearing my uniform and discovered that my role extended far beyond opening and closing cell doors.”

Joann quickly realized that correctional professionals have the opportunity to mentor, influence, and positively impact the lives of those in their custody while supporting one another as a team.

That passion for developing others soon led her into leadership.

After two years with the agency, she became a Training Officer, mentoring and preparing new correctional officers as they entered the profession. In 2024, she earned promotion to Sergeant before laterally transferring to one of Texas’ six Regional Training Academies, where she now serves as an instructor for newly hired officers and provides guidance to training staff across multiple facilities.

While building her career, Joann has remained committed to advancing her education.

Already holding an associate degree in Early Childhood Education, she is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Management and Administration at Walden University, preparing herself for future leadership roles within the agency.

Her goal is clear—to continue shaping the future of corrections by investing in the people who wear the uniform.

Looking back, Joann recognizes just how remarkable her journey has been.

“Each day, I am reminded how far I have come—from a single mother seeking financial stability to a leader entrusted with shaping the future of our agency.”

The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation is honored to support correctional professionals like Joann who demonstrate that leadership is built through service, resilience, and a commitment to lifting others along the way.

Congratulations, Sergeant Savage! We look forward to watching your continued impact on the next generation of correctional professionals.