Garden City Community College awarded the 2026 Tommy Austin Community Impact Award to Real Men Real Leaders during its annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration on January 19.
Sponsored by the GCCC Student Government Association and bUSters United, the event also featured a keynote address by Xernona Clayton, uniting students, employees, and community members in honoring Dr. King’s legacy through service and leadership.
The Tommy Austin Community Impact Award recognizes individuals and organizations whose selflessness and dedication to service embody the values of the late Tommy Lou Austin, the first African American woman elected to serve as a City Commissioner in Garden City. Her life was marked by tireless advocacy, compassionate leadership, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others—an influence that continues to inspire the community today.
“Real Men Real Leaders exemplifies the spirit of the Tommy Austin Community Impact Award,” said Stacey Carr, GCCC bUSters United and Associate Professor of Communication. “Their commitment to mentoring and empowering young boys through leadership, accountability, and service reflects the same values of compassion and community impact that Dr. King and Tommy Austin stood for.”
Real Men Real Leaders (RMRL) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to guiding young boys toward becoming confident, responsible leaders. The organization is built on the belief that every young boy has the potential to lead in all areas of life and make a meaningful, positive impact in their community.
RMRL provides leadership development, training, and educational resources to boys from diverse backgrounds, with a focus on building self-confidence, fostering positive relationships, and strengthening communication and leadership skills. The organization also hosts community events and workshops that allow participants to showcase their growth, connect with mentors, and engage with other aspiring leaders.
Through its programming and volunteer efforts, Real Men Real Leaders is helping shape the future of the community by empowering the next generation. The organization’s mission is to inspire young boys to become confident, compassionate, and influential leaders who are committed to making a positive difference in the world.
The following Real Men Real Leaders charter members were honored: Josh Biera, Tim Cruz, Anthony Cruz, Jonas Cruz, Eric DeLeRosa, Robert DeLeon, Phil Escareno, Gabe Gallardo, Dennis Mesa, Reynaldo Mesa, James Mireles, Steve Martinez, and Steve Sandoval.
For more information about the Tommy Austin Community Impact Award or the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration, please contact Stacey Carr at stacey.carr@gcccks.edu.
