04/30/2026
For Immediate Release
Omega Hawkins Receives Distinguished Service Award from TTA and TxDOT
TERRELL, TX — 4/30/2026 — Longtime local public transit leader Omega Hawkins has received the Distinguished Service Award from the Texas Transit Association in partnership with the Texas Department of Transportation. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly advanced public transportation in Texas.
Hawkins devoted more than four decades to expanding access to transit across North Central Texas, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and rural communities.
Hawkins began her career in 1974 as a bus driver for the Dallas County Nutrition Program. In 1979, she launched a senior transportation and meals program in Seagoville, which later expanded into Kaufman County Senior Citizens Services and Kaufman Area Rural Transit (KART).
Under Hawkins’ leadership, KART grew into STAR Transit, expanding service into multiple counties and introducing demand-response transit across the region. She also led the agency through major funding changes following the 2010 census, securing continued local support and maintaining service without relying on tax revenue. She retired as Executive Director in 2019 and continued serving on the STAR Transit Board through 2024. Today, the agency provides more than 235,000 rides annually.
“Omega’s impact on public transit in Texas is significant,” said Tommy Henricks, STAR Transit Executive Director. “Her leadership built a system that continues to serve communities across the region every day.”
The Distinguished Service Award is one of the highest honors presented by TTA and TxDOT, recognizing long-term leadership and impact on public transportation.
About STAR Transit
Founded in 1988, STAR Transit is the fourth-largest transit agency in the North Central Texas region—and the largest not funded by sales tax. As a political subdivision of the State of Texas, STAR Transit provides over 235,000 rides annually using a fleet of 55 ADA-compliant vehicles.
Revenue is generated through federal and state grants, along with local partnerships with cities, counties, and businesses. STAR Transit offers safe, affordable, and reliable transportation to the general public, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities—providing access to jobs, healthcare, personal services, retail, entertainment, and more.
With over 80 employees, the agency is headquartered in Terrell, TX. For more information, visit www.STARtransit