Texas Woman’s University celebrates student leaders and organizations at the annual Redbud Awards.

The Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) received the Glenda Brock Simmons Student Organization Community Service Award for a student organization that “exemplifies a core value of community service for the entire organization and exceeds the organization’s minimum requirements for service.”

SAAC emphasizes community service opportunities for all student-athletes. Throughout this academic year, the Pioneers have volunteered with Keep Denton Beautiful, Denton ISD, campus activities, events in Denton and a plethora of other opportunities. Additionally, SAAC coordinates a yearly fundraiser for Make-A-Wish. Through these events, SAAC places a high importance on giving back.

Laurel Jones, SAAC president, said she has been honored to lead the organization this year.

“This year has been an amazing journey alongside all of my fellow SAAC members and student-athletes,” Jones said. “We all put in numerous hours of community service, as well as hard work to raise funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Community service and engagement is something very important to me personally, and I wanted to bring that same passion to SAAC this year. I am honored to have been the SAAC President this year and to have helped lead SAAC to winning the Glenda Brock Simmons Student Organization Community Service Award!”

Jones is the granddaughter of Sam and Joyce Curry of Mineola.