The essay identifies the contextual changes leaders can expect to occur in the 1990s in the external environments within which prisons operate and reviews the research which documents that those who believe they have a voice in formulating policy are more likely to be committed to the organization and to work toward excellence. Leaders form the basis for reciprocal relationships by enabling others to grow and develop. When leaders engage others informally by supporting and cooperating and nurturing and developing them, they add the roles of catalyst and facilitator to their function. Ideas for implementing these roles include focusing on skills and positive attributes of others and encouraging others to collaborate and plan as a team and to be creative and innovative problem solvers. 19 notes