May 20, 2012

Program History

“The Greater Austin Crime Commission recognized early on that public safety is a community concern. That’s why programs like the Longhorn Leaders are successful. It’s a public and private sector partnership that utilizes the best available resources and improves the quality of life for Central Texans.”
- Roy Butler, Past President, Greater Austin Crime Commission

The Greater Austin Crime Commission and University of Texas School of Social Work developed the Longhorn Leaders youth outreach program in cooperation with the university's Athletic Department and the Austin Independent School District. University of Texas athletes receive course credit for their participation. Five courses have been offered since Fall 2003 working in seven middle schools and three elementary schools.

“I'd like to thank the UT athletes for letting me know I'm not the only one going through this stuff. I also learned that you have to think about the future when you make your choices.” - Student Participant

The program is designed to communicate the importance of academic and personal success with middle school students. During the semester, each university athlete makes several personal presentations at each school, emphasizing academic excellence and life "success" skills.

"One important thing I've learned as a result of this whole project is that no matter what is surrounding you and what everyone else is doing, you do your thing." - Student Participant

The program, created by Crime Commission board members Dr. Michael L. Lauderdale and Fred Ligarde, reaches seventh graders at a crucial developmental point, as decisions affect the transition into early adolescence. School failure, involvement with drugs, gangs, or other harmful activities, and delinquency begun in middle school often lead to school dropout and discourage successful developmental transitions. Students at this age are susceptible to influences beyond the family, especially from peers and the popular media. The Longhorn Leaders program provides an alternative, positive message.

What people are saying about the Longhorn Leaders...

"Many of our athletes are surprised by what they are getting out of this program. This is the first time some of them really understand what it means to be a role model. And it's the first time they were talking about their lives and about what leadership means. Not their stats. Not their game. But their own personal stories of how they got to be where they are today." - Brian T. Davis, Assistant Athletic Director, The University of Texas at Austin

"The future of the Lone Star State depends on how well our children are prepared to assume the reins of leadership and forge a future of success. By promoting the positive development of ‘at-risk' students in the Austin area, Longhorn Leaders continue to make a difference for the future." - Governor Rick Perry

"It's a great feeling to know that we can influence younger generations." - Derrick Johnson

"It had an extremely positive impact on our students. I saw immediate reactions to the presentations and, during the past year, long-term effects on behavior and attitude." - Lily Garcia, counselor, Bedicheck Middle School

News

In Memoriam: Hon. Roy Butler

Butler, a founding director and past president of the Greater Austin Crime Commission, passed away Friday, November 13, 2009.

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