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Mentorship • Education • Rehabilitation • Integrated • Training

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) is in the midst of a powerful transformation — an Islamic movement of growth, mentorship, and leadership.

One year ago, TDCJ approved MERIT (Mentorship Education Rehabilitation Integrated Training) — a groundbreaking peer-to-peer program designed to cultivate strong, knowledgeable, and compassionate Muslim leaders within the correctional system.

MERIT is a 120-hour intensive training that brings together proven Islamic leaders from across Texas for six weeks at the Stringfellow Unit. During this time, participants engage deeply with theological and cognitive concepts, preparing to return to their respective units as MERIT Muslim Coordinators.

These graduates dedicate themselves full-time to mentorship, education, and community development — not only within the Islamic population but throughout the greater prison community.

Stay connected for updates, stories, and highlights from the ongoing MERIT Movement.