Dismas House Hosts Open House and Special Recognition Breakfast for Legislators

April 22, 2025

In recognition of Second Chance Month, leading reentry program Dismas House hosts an Open House & Special Recognition Breakfast for Tennessee state legislators on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. located at 2424 Charlotte Avenue. The program includes a continental breakfast, welcome remarks, resident stories and campus tours. Commissioner Frank Strada, Tennessee Department of Correction, will be honored with the Father Jack Hickey Changemaker Award for his dedicated support of the Dismas House mission.

Named after Dismas House founder Father Jack Hickey, the award recognizes individuals who embody an unwavering commitment to second chances, dignity and transformation. Father Hickey was a visionary leader and advocate for justice who dedicated his life to ensuring that formerly incarcerated individuals had the support, community and resources needed to rebuild their lives. The award celebrates those who continue his legacy—changemakers who champion reentry support, advocate for fair opportunities and work to create stronger, more inclusive communities.

“I’m incredibly honored to be a recipient of the Father Jack Hickey Changemaker Award,” says Commissioner Frank Strada, Tennessee Department of Correction. “Dismas House is a critical step after incarceration to help men move forward with courage and determination to transform their lives.”

“During Second Chance Month, we invite state legislators to learn about the lifechanging work at Dismas House beyond housing, employment and education—we address the full person and walk with our residents every step of the way,” says Steven Murff, CEO, Dismas House. “We congratulate Commissioner Strada for his efforts to make second chances possible and break the cycle of incarceration.”