Redwater man receives Community Leadership Excellence Award

TEXARKANA, Texas (KTAL/KMSS)—Texas A&M University-Texarkana’s School of Professional Education and Community Engagement (PECE) named Donnie Spriggs the Spring 2025 recipient of the PECE Community Leadership Excellence Award.

The award is given to individuals who demonstrate outstanding community leadership through commitment to service, collaboration, and mentorship.

Donnie is a Redwater native who graduated from TAMUT in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Leadership. He is currently the Director of Food & Beverage at Lost Pizza in Texarkana.

“With over 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Donnie is well-known for his energetic leadership, positive workplace culture, and passion for developing the next generation of workers,” a press release stated.

Donnie is also heavily involved in the community. He organized donation drives to collect supplies for Hurricane Helene victims.

“Donnie represents everything we hope to see in a leader—dedication to people, resilience through challenges, and a commitment to serving others,” said Dr. Jennifer Davis, Director of Community Engagement. “He’s not only a proud alumnus but a proud example of what community-focused leadership looks like.”

The award is presented each semester at TAMUT to recognize those who carry out PECE’s mission of elevating careers and empowering communities through leadership and service.

“I’ve never set out to win awards,” said Spriggs. “I’ve just tried to show up, do the right thing, and take care of the community that’s taken care of me. This recognition is a reflection of the people around me who have believed in the power of giving back and working together. I’m honored and grateful to be a part of something bigger than myself.”

To learn more about the PECE Community Leadership Excellence Award, go to tamut.edu/pece or contact Dr. Jennifer Davis at jdavis@tamut.edu.