VADOC Announces Launch of Citizens' Academy

Agency News

August 10, 2026

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) Director Joseph W. Walters today announced the launch of the agency’s first Citizens’ Academy, a four‑week program beginning October 14, 2026.

The VADOC Citizens’ Academy will offer community members, such as family members of public safety team members, incarcerated individuals, or individuals under community supervision, civic organizations, college students, and faith-based leaders a firsthand look at the agency’s mission, operations, and the work of its dedicated staff.

Participants will visit a correctional facility, a Probation & Parole Office, VADOC’s Headquarters in Richmond, and the agency’s Academy for Staff Development to learn about institutional operations, community supervision, leadership, reentry efforts, employee training, and employee health and wellness. The program will conclude with a keynote address and graduation ceremony.

The VADOC Citizens’ Academy aims to strengthen public understanding, highlight employee professionalism, and support relationship-building with community leaders, educators, businesses, and civic organizations. Application details and schedules are available on the VADOC website under the Community and Legislative Affairs section located under the “General Public” tab.

“I’m excited to provide community members with a detailed, inside look at the important work our dedicated public safety team performs every day to keep people in communities all across the Commonwealth of Virginia safe,” said Director Walters. “We look forward to opening our doors, sharing our work, and building stronger connections and relationships with communities across Virginia.”

Applications will be accepted for the VADOC Citizens’ Academy through Monday, August 24, 2026.

Learn more about the Citizens’ Academy by watching this video on the VADOC’s YouTube channel.