Capacity: 1500
Client: Georgia Department of Corrections (GA DOC)
Accreditations: American Correctional Association (ACA) and National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC)
In 2011 the GEO Group, Inc. (GEO) was awarded a contract by the Georgia Department of Corrections for the finance, design, construction, and operation of Riverbend Correctional Facility.
Inmates receive academic and vocational programming as well as medical care, substance abuse treatment programs, and group support. The desired mission of the facility is to provide quality programming to promote successful re-entry of inmates. The Continuum of Care model currently implemented at Riverbend Correctional Facility and places an intense focus on therapeutic programming, education and job training based on current job market trends.
The facility achieved initial accreditation through the American Correctional Association and reaccreitation in 2022 with a score of 99.77%. The facility was also accredited by the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) in 2013 and 2015.
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. READ MORE
Through a rigorous review process, Riverbend Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility (RCRF) has demonstrated its ongoing commitment to educational excellence and has received renewed accreditation from Cognia. Maintaining Cognia accreditation is important for correctional facilities because it ensures a high standard of educational quality, which is directly linked to lower recidivism rates, improved post-release employment, and a safer environment within the facility. By holding programs accountable to rigorous, evidence-based criteria, accreditation validates their educational value and positive impact on incarcerated individuals. From day one, our goal has been to assist the culture within the facility by giving incarcerated individuals a sense of purpose and hope, which contributes to a safer environment for both staff and inmates. Education in corrections is a vital tool for rehabilitation that reduces recidivism and improves post-release employment. By equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge to succeed, it helps them reintegrate into society and break cycles of crime. For these reasons, RCRF will continue to strive and evolve our Education Department. We would also like to give special recognition to Donna Jacobs, Academic Instructor, for her hard work and dedication to the accreditation process. Donna, we are a success, because of you and your passion for education. Thank you for all you do! READ MORE