TERRELL, Texas — Nov. 12, 2024 — Longtime public transit advocate Omega Hawkins was honored with the Key to the City by Terrell Mayor Rick Camona, who proclaimed October 26 as “Omega Hawkins Day.” 

“A true champion of public transit, Omega’s advocacy spans over four decades in Terrell and across North Central Texas,” said Mayor Camona. 

Hawkins began her career in 1980 with Kaufman County Senior Citizens Services and then Kaufman Area Rural Transit (KART), the precursors to the creation of STAR Transit in 2011.  Hawkins served as STAR Transit executive director until retiring in 2019, after which she served on its board of directors. 

“Omega has worked tirelessly to expand public transit access for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and rural communities,” said Tommy Henricks, STAR Transit executive director.  “All these years later, STAR Transit offers affordable transit service to people from all walks of life across four counties.  We owe this success to Omega’s dedication.” 

At the same ceremony, the first annual Omega Hawkins Award was presented to Alice Smith for exemplifying Hawkins’ values of safety, reliability, kindness, and compassion.  Smith has been a driver for over 11 years.   

The following STAR Transit employees also received recognition: 

• Extra Mile Award: Gary Williams 

• Outstanding Customer Service Award: James “JJ” Janicek 

• Outstanding Service Award: Felicia Smith 

• Rookie of the Year: Johnnie Johnson 

• Driver of the Year: Janice McLean 

“Our dedicated team follows in the footsteps of Omega Hawkins, continuing to provide outstanding public transit service.  Congratulations to all our award recipients!” concluded Henricks.