54th Annual dewitty/overton freedom fund honorees

The Austin NAACP is recognizing the following individuals for their outstanding work and leadership in Austin. These individuals have made enormous contributions in improving the quality of life for African Americans and serve as examples for the entire community. The individuals are listed below:

Commissioner Jeff Travillion, Dewitty/Overton Award
The Dewitty/Overton Award was established in 1966 and is given each year to an individual who has the most impact on civil rights, civic engagement, and policy directives. Commissioner Travillion, joins a long list of honorees, including Volma Overton, Gary Bledsoe, and the Honorable Wilhelmina Delco.

Erica Danielle, Captain Louie White Award
Danielle has been an actual example of community policing. Her knowledge of East Austin and it residents has served as a model for building trust and respect among everyone.

Courtney Bailey, outstanding leadership at Leadership Austin
Courtney’s efforts to increase diversity and cultural inclusiveness, have been applauded and recognized across the city.

Kazique Prince, outstanding leadership and consistent work in advocating for equity
As a community liaison on the staff of Austin Mayor Steve Adler, Kazique has been a textbook definition of perseverance. 

Alta Alexander, serves as a beacon of light
As the owner of Altatudes, Alta has received recognition and rave reviews, all across Austin. Her spirit and enthusiasm serves as a reminder of the importance of sacrifice and determination.

Natasha Staten, outstanding leadership in education at the Del Valle ISD
Natasha’s leadership by example and purpose-driven style to assist her students in striving for educational excellence at Del Valle Middle School is encouraging and exciting.

Aaron Demerson, a reputation based on his benevolent and supportive spirit 
Aaron’s impact can be felt from his previous work at the State Capital to his contributions on the African American Resource Advisory Commission.

Stevin Bass Kane, best-known for his tremendous entrepreneurship at Kane’s Barbershop
Stevin's energy and ambition are on display daily and should serve as a reminder of  the important role barbers have occupied in African American culture.

The purpose of these awards is to encourage all Austinites to strive for excellence and work collectively to improve their communities. The impact of their efforts has been noted and embraced by peers and colleagues. We invite the entire community to join us at this event and celebrate these outstanding individuals. The Austin NAACP will be celebrating its Centennial at this event and also recognizing landmark achievements during it’s 100th year history.