Hawkins receives Extension award

Clarendon College instructor and longtime Donley County 4-H program supporter, Jerry Hawkins received the Texas Agricultural Extension Service Panhandle District’s ‘Friend of Extension’ award.

Hawkins’ was recognized during ceremonies held recently at the Texas A&M Research and Extension Center in Amarillo.  He was cited for his contributions and leadership as a 4-H volunteer and resource for youth throughout the region.

A career educator and mentor to area public school and college students — Hawkins began teaching at Clarendon College in 1968.  He developed the ranch management curriculum for CC’s current ranch and feedlot operations program in 1973.

Hawkins’ tenure as coach of the CC livestock judging teams began in 1974. He started and now supervises the school’s horse and meat judging teams.  His teams consistently win at state and national competitions.

“He is an ever-present mentor and resource person for area youth involved in 4-H, FFA and college level organizations,” said Dr. Bob Robinson, Extension’s district director for agricultural programs. 

According to Extension county agricultural agent Leon Church, Hawkins received the Donley County Friend of 4H award in 1993 for his involvement at the local, district, and state levels.

“He also sponsors leadership conferences for FFA members and officers each year.  Jerry has worked closely with our county 4-H livestock judging teams, coaching and then accompanying them to district and state contests,” said Church.

Jerry and Glenda Hawkins, a teacher in Clarendon Public Schools, are the parents of two grown sons.  Dean is a researcher and instructor in animal science at New Mexico State University, and Doug is a beef cattle specialist with Purina.  Hawkins and his sons are also Gold Star 4-H award recipients.

“This family has played a significant role in youth education and development in the Panhandle,” said Donna Brauchi, Extension’s district director for family and consumer sciences.