The Cornell Philosophy

Since 1973, when our companies first began operations, Cornell has focused on the safety and security of those entrusted to our care and providing superior service to our customers. Our nearly 5,000 employees uphold the responsibility of Safety, Security, Service.™

Safety
  • Safety begins with excellent training and all facility staff complete pre-service training in basic security procedures and effective communications with inmates which is reinforced during annual in-service training.
  • Cornell designs their own policies and procedures to promote the safety of our staff and inmates. Active Quality Assurance and Internal Audits ensure compliance.
  • Company-wide online incident reporting standard that automatically routes submissions to leadership and areas of expertise according to incident type.
  • Community relations boards ensure partnership with local law enforcement and emergency responders.

Security

  • The “Security First” mindset dictates that all staff are direct care staff first focused on the security of those entrusted to our care, whether as corrections officers at a large prison or youth role models at a juvenile facility.
  • Implement the latest technology to design and operate state of the art facilities. We use monitoring systems and remote activated cameras to give our staff the latest tools to manage their populations. Automated incident report notification assures immediate response to serious situations.
  • Cornell embraces Direct Supervision and Unit Management models, where our staff are among residents face-to-face in the housing units, recreation facilities, programming areas – which promotes communication between staff and those in our care.

Service

  • We focus on satisfying customers as evidenced by a 98% win rate on rebids from 2005-2009 (JCAHO;ACA)
  • Our ACA accredited facilities scored on average 99% on their inspections
  • Cornell is uniquely positioned to blend treatment and detention as one of the largest providers of re-entry services.
  • All facilities operated with Cornell’s Seven Key Principles of Care
  • Active Quality Assurance Program (QAP) assures compliance to meet the contracting agencies expectations.
We are a values and mission-driven company. Many can build and operate programs and facilities, but it is the manner in which Cornell operates its programs and facilities that truly make a difference. We want our employees, host communities, and shareholders to be proud of the service they perform. We want those trusted to our care to return to society as contributing members.


Mission Statement


We are committed to making a difference.
  • We provide quality correctional, treatment and educational services to those entrusted to our care.

  • We provide safe, secure, and cost-effective programs.

  • We reinvest financial resources to grow and improve our services and for the continued development of our staff.

  • We work in partnership with contracting agencies, communities and families.

  • We provide leadership throughout the industry.

This is The Cornell Difference!

Core Values

Our values expand our capacity to help people and fuel company growth.
  • Quality Services
    Through caring, comprehensive programs that provide dignity, hope, safety and accountability, people can change.

  • Employee Value
    We value and respect our staff and the work they do. We focus on the continuing professional development and career advancement for all employees.

  • Leadership
    We lead by example by modeling the highest standards and ethics of our profession.

  • Partnership
    We work in partnership with communities, families and contracting agencies to provide innovative service solutions within our industry.

  • Reinvestment and Company Growth
    We reinvest financial results to grow and improve our services and develop our staff and enhance company value.

Seven Key Principles® of Care


At Cornell Companies, our values are the standards that guide everything we do – from helping shape quality programs that create shareholder value to satisfying customers.

All Cornell programs are guided by our
Seven Key Principles® of Care.

  • People Security
    People security comprises two fundamental concepts: (1) supervision that minimizes the opportunity for negative behavior and maximizes the opportunity for staff presence; and (2) "meaningful interaction" that elevates behavior modification from a compliance-only to a treatment-oriented philosophy.

  • Program Security
    Program security also has two key components: (1) development of schedules ensuring a high degree of constructive activity; and (2) a clearly defined structure and set of expectations for client involvement in daily routines and activities.

  • Accountability/Responsibility/High Expectations
    Staff personally address all noteworthy behaviors and attitudes and impose appropriate positive or negative consequences without being abusive. Through this, clients learn new habits and skills promoting responsible thinking and behavior.

  • Role Modeling
    We must not only set the standards for behavior, but also model the behaviors we teach. For many clients who have lived without positive, consistent role models, it is essential that staff act in a manner above reproach and effectively model the values they teach.

  • Teamwork/Communication
    A supportive relationship made of teamwork and communication between staff and clients is essential in creating a safe environment in which change and growth can occur. Client participation in the treatment process enhances their commitment to treatment and motivates them to achieve lasting changes.

  • Dignity and Respect
    Clients respond best when they are treated fairly and with respect and are more likely to respond positively to staff who care enough to hold them accountable for their actions. Staff who take the time to teach clients, listen to their concerns, and help them help themselves greatly enhance an environment in which meaningful change can occur.

  • Cleanliness/Environment of Care
    The physical environment of any treatment program directly impacts the quality of care. Cleanliness and maintenance of the building and grounds are as important as clinical activities. By setting high expectations in these areas, staff teach responsibility and respect for property and the environment. which are life skills that will carry back to their communities. Lastly, for both staff and the clients, it is important to create an environment conducive to treatment and aesthetically pleasing to clients, family, staff, and the broader community.
Safety, Security & Service
is the Foundation



By providing safe and secure environments, teaching values, and offering quality programs and opportunities for change in an environment of dignity and respect for the individual, people can change. They can be successful, productive citizens who are no longer a threat to society and can have a second chance at life. This is the fundamental belief that is interwoven throughout our company and binds our employees, programs, departments and facilities together.

Cornell Companies, Inc. 1700 W. Loop S., Suite 1500 Houston, TX 77027 Toll Free: 888-624-0816 Fax: 713-623-2853
©2009 - Legal Terms & Privacy Policies | Home | Contact Us