Branton Lewis is the principal and lead instructor for the education department at the Wilkinson County Correctional Facility in Woodville, MS.

“Working with the education department, I like the hands-on [aspect of the job],” he says. “In this environment, what makes a difference is programming. I’m glad I’m a part of that department, so I can help see the change. I can help those guys make the right decisions, so we won’t have them coming back into the system.”

“I think that Mr. Lewis probably has one of the kindest hearts of anyone I’ve ever met,” says Wilkinson County Correctional Facility Warden Darrel Vannoy. “He loves his profession. He loves to teach. He’s so excited when these guys succeed. All of his employees, all of the staff here, have a great deal of respect for Mr. Lewis because of the person that he is, because of his heart.”

During his interview, Branton reflects on his past experiences with residents.

“One guy, he just got his GED, and he was in the corner in the classroom, just sitting out, and he was just crying. He was crying. And we were like, ‘What?’ He was so happy. He said, ‘I didn’t want to cry in front of you guys, but I’m so happy that I got this accomplishment done’. That just brings great joy to me,” says Branton.

“I just want to praise my staff,” Branton continues. “Without them, I couldn’t do anything. I’m crazy about my staff.”

“He’s a good representative of the staff here,” states Warden Vannoy. “We have a great program staff. We have just a great team overall here. I’m very proud to be a part of them.”