Chris Cirrito, CEO

Chris is a Certified Internal Auditor, Certified Fraud Examiner, and Certified Government Audit Professional. He is a graduate of Sam Houston State University, holding both a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and corrections, as well as a master’s degree in criminal justice leadership and management.

Chris began his career with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) in 1995 as a correctional officer working the second shift on death row while attending college classes. He found his true calling after graduation when he joined the Office of the Independent Auditor, where he served the Texas Board of Criminal Justice until his retirement in March 2026. He spent the last 11 years of his career as the Chief Audit Executive, with oversight for the TDCJ, Windham School District, and Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles.

Since his retirement, Chris has returned to his alma mater, SHSU, to mentor future criminal justice professionals as an adjunct professor teaching a master’s level course in governance, oversight, and accountability. He also works with the Institute of Internal Auditors as a quality assessor.

Committee Service:

• American Correctional Association (ACA)

  • Chair - Ethics

  • Member - Resolutions & Policies

  • Member - International Corrections

• American Probation & Parole Association (APPA)

  • Member - Technology

  • Member - International Relations

• Texas State Agency Internal Audit Forum

  • Chair (former)