Josh Heater Wins Award for Visionary Student Leadership at A&M-Texarkana

Faculty, staff, students, family, and friends gathered at Texas A&M University-Texarkana on Thursday, May 7, for a luncheon recognizing nominees for the 2026 Scott Bruner Award for Visionary Student Leadership.

About The Scott Bruner Award for Visionary Student Leadership

Presented each spring, the Bruner Award honors students who show leadership, service, community building, and a positive impact on campus life. The award is named after Scott Bruner, whose leadership and support helped shape the university’s growth, including the move to the Bringle Lake campus.

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Although Bruner was unable to attend this year’s ceremony, he shared a recorded message congratulating the nominees and thanking them for their leadership. His son and daughter-in-law, Collins and Monica Bruner, along with their daughter Anna Scott, presented the award on his behalf.

Visionary Student Leadership Award Nominees at A&M-Texarkana

Nominees this year were Daniela Hernandez, Diamond Hampton, Hannah Jarrett, Jaquelin (Jaky) Moreno Flores, Even (Josh) Heater, Juvard Anthony, Payton Perkins, Ryan Walker, and Sneha GC.

READ MORE: A&M-Texarkana Joins LevelUp Texas Education Expansion

Heater Receives Top Leadership Honor at A&M Texarkana

This year’s award went to Evan “Josh” Heater, a junior mechanical engineering major from Houston.

According to a press release, Heater serves as the founding president of the university’s Mechanical Engineering Club and has also been active in Student Government, Phi Lambda Chi, and the Student Ambassador program. University leaders said he is known for mentoring fellow students, encouraging involvement, and helping build strong connections across campus.

Recognized for Campus Impact

Texas A&M-Texarkana President Dr. Ross Alexander praised all of the nominees for their commitment to making the university a better place.

Alexander said,

This year’s winner, Josh Heater, has taken on leadership roles in multiple groups and organizations across campus over multiple years, and embodies everything the Bruner Award represents. I congratulate Josh on this prestigious award.