Hawkins, TX – March 25, 2025 – The Hawkins Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual Awards Banquet on Tuesday evening, bringing together local leaders, educators, and residents to celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals who embody excellence, leadership, and service in the Hawkins community. Held in the Hawkins Civic Center, the event was a night of inspiration and recognition, spotlighting two exceptional honorees from Jarvis Christian University.
Among the evening’s highest honors were the Faculty of the Year and Student of the Year awards—both of which were presented to members of the Jarvis Christian University family. Ms. Gwendolyn Lee, Assistant Professor of Social Work, was named Faculty of the Year, while senior student Dayreiona Issac was celebrated as Student of the Year. Their achievements reflect the strong partnership between Jarvis Christian University and the greater Hawkins community in fostering academic excellence and civic engagement.
Ms. Lee has served as a dedicated educator and mentor within the Division of Professional Studies at Jarvis Christian University, where she teaches courses in social work and human services. Known for her innovative teaching methods and her compassionate support of students, she has played a critical role in preparing future social workers to lead with empathy, advocacy, and integrity. In her acceptance remarks, Lee emphasized the importance of servant leadership and thanked her colleagues and students for inspiring her daily. “This award is not just about me,” she said. “It’s about every student who dares to make a difference in the world. I am honored to walk alongside them.”
Dayreiona Issac was honored for her academic excellence, leadership in student organizations, and tireless commitment to community service. Dayreiona has consistently demonstrated resilience, drive, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others—on and off campus. As a peer mentor and active volunteer in outreach initiatives, she exemplifies the university’s values of leadership, service, and transformation. Accepting her award, Dayreiona shared, “Being recognized by the Hawkins Chamber of Commerce is a humbling reminder that hard work, faith, and community truly make a difference.”
The evening also included a keynote address from a local business leader, musical performances from Jarvis students, and a dinner that highlighted regional cuisine. With more than 150 attendees, the banquet served as a celebration of the positive impact educational leaders and students are making across Hawkins and beyond.
The 2025 Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet reaffirmed the strong bond between Jarvis Christian University and the Hawkins community. As the city and university continue to grow together, the evening stood as a powerful reminder of how excellence in education drives collective progress.
For more information about the Hawkins Chamber of Commerce and future community events, please visit hawkinschamber.org.
