Austin News

First Lady Cecilia Abbott, the Honorary Chair of the Governor's Volunteer Awards, has announced the recipients of the 41st Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards. The awards, presented in collaboration with OneStar Foundation, honor individuals, groups, and organizations that have made significant contributions to Texas communities through volunteering over the past year.

"I am honored to celebrate these 17 incredible awardees whose passion and dedication uplifts communities all across Texas," said First Lady Abbott. "Their stories remind us that the true heart of Texas lies in the generosity and kindness of its people, and we are excited to share their inspiring examples of service and leadership."

OneStar Foundation President and CEO Chris Bugbee added, "These remarkable stories showcase the power of service to transform lives and strengthen our communities. By highlighting these outstanding individuals and organizations, we hope to ignite a spark in others to step forward, make a difference, and continue the tradition of giving back that defines the Texas spirit."

The award recipients will be celebrated during National Volunteer Month in April at a reception hosted at the Texas Governor’s Mansion.

Among those recognized is Ruth Jordan from San Angelo, who received the Governor's Lifetime Achievement Award for her advocacy work with San Angelo State Park. Wayne R. Maynard from Dallas also received this award for his efforts with Angel Flight South Central.

Hannah Ho from Fort Worth was awarded the First Lady's Rising Star Award for co-founding Address Teen Stress (ATS), while Miriam Khan from Spring was similarly recognized for her work with Art4All. Shreya Poladia from Texas Hill Country received recognition for founding Art for a Cause.

Samir Becic from Houston was named Volunteer of the Year for his health promotion efforts. Eric A. Duvoe from Round Rock also received this award for his volunteer chaplaincy work.

The Aghili-Jacquier family from Pflugerville was named Volunteer Family of the Year for their animal rescue efforts through Jack Jack's Pack.

Corporate Champion Awards went to Professional Compounding Centers of America (Fort Bend), ServiceMaster of Wichita Falls (Wichita Falls), and Thrivent (Statewide) for their community support initiatives.

Community Champion Awards were given to Texas Health Community Hope (North Texas), Town of Addison (Addison), Universal City Volunteer Corps (San Antonio), San Jacinto College (Pasadena), Jasper Newton Long-Term Recovery Group (Jasper & Newton Counties), and Ashley Harris-Land (Houston) received an AmeriCorps Legacy of Service Award.

For more information about these awards, visit onestarfoundation.org/governors-volunteer-awards.