Austin Dobbs, Quitman, Texas – 2014 Turner Maurice Gauntt, Jr. Exemplary Citizen Award Winner
Austin Dobbs is a remarkable young man whose high school attributes, achieve ments and character mirror those of Turner Maurice Gauntt, Jr.’s. Dobbs was Valedictorian of his graduating class from Quitman High School in Quitman, Texas with a 5.4 grade point average. He was Captain of the football team and Captain of the track team. He received All-District Honors for his positions as wide receiver and defensive back and was named First Team Academic All-State as well as serving as Treasurer and Vice President of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Academically, in addition to being Valedictorian, he was President of the National Honor Society, President of the Debate Club, Student Council Vice-President and Senior Class President. He was a State Qualifying Debater for his junior and senior seasons, deemed as one of the top five debaters in the state of Texas and was the State Silver Gavel winner as 2nd in the State of Texas 2013. He received countless academic and character awards within his community. His church and community ser- vice is astonishing with 775 hours served, which includes Program Director of DASH – Drugs, Alcohol, Safety, and Health.
Dobbs is graduate of Baylor University and is currently serving as an officer in the United States Air Force. He adheres to the principle that to whom much is given, much is required and has dedicated himself to public service. Having been recognized as the inaugural recipient of Turner Maurice Gauntt, Jr Award, Dobbs has sought every day to live the life of service, leadership, and high character of the awards namesake. He has served in key leadership positions throughout college and in the military and has been a member of the Youth Advisory Board since its inception