Angela Phams, Facility Administrator at the Riverbend Correctional & Rehabilitation Facility (Riverbend CRF), has been selected as the 2026 Warden of the Year by the North American Association of Wardens and Superintendents (NAAWS).
This recognition represents one of the most respected distinctions within the corrections industry. Each year, the NAAWS selection committee carefully reviews an extraordinary group of nominees comprised of leaders who demonstrate exceptional dedication, professionalism, and impact within their institutions. FA Phams’ selection reflects the committee’s clear consensus regarding the strength of her leadership, her commitment to operational excellence, and her meaningful contributions to both staff development and offender rehabilitation.
FA Phams’ nomination highlights the qualities that define outstanding correctional leadership. Her innovative response to staffing challenges, her emphasis on mentorship and professional growth, and her ability to foster a culture of accountability and forward-thinking leadership speak to the depth of her influence, not just within the Facility but within the broader GEO organization. The measurable achievements of Riverbend CRF, particularly in education, programming, and organizational stability, further underscore the effectiveness of her leadership approach. FA Phams’ reputation for professionalism, integrity, and engagement embodies the standards NAAWS seeks to promote and celebrate. She is truly a leader who inspires confidence, cultivates talent, and drives continuous improvement.
Additionally, this award demonstrates FA Phams’ dedication to GEO’s Vision Commitments of achieving operational excellence; maintaining a close relationship with the client that is grounded in honesty, knowledge, dependability and flexibility; achieving world leadership in offender rehabilitation services; and humility. Congratulations FA Phams on this well-deserved recognition!
In early March 2026, FA Phams was presented with a GEO Certificate of Recognition for her achievement by Dr. George Zoley, GEO’s Chairman, CEO and Founder, and Paul Laird, GEO’s Senior Vice President, Secure Services. They were joined by Georgia Department of Corrections Commissioner, Tyrone Oliver. She will formally receive her award at the Warden of the Year Banquet at the annual NAAWS Conference in Daytona Beach, Florida on March 31, 2026.
