Texas State announces recipient of 4th annual Austin M. Salyer Community Service Award

Texas State University recognized Aiden Gonzales as the recipient of the Austin M. Salyer Community Service Award during the University Police Department’s (UPD) annual award ceremony on April 28.  

The honor celebrates the life and legacy of Austin Salyer, a Bobcat remembered for his commitment to service, integrity, and compassion.

Established in 2023 by the TXST UPD in partnership with Austin’s parents, Bonnie and Rodney Salyer, and the nonprofit Leave No Victim Behind, the award recognizes a student who embodies Salyer’s spirit of selflessness and dedication to others. The endowed scholarship provides $1,000 each year to support a student committed to making a meaningful impact in their community.

A junior majoring in criminal justice with a minor in military science, Salyer was an active member of Alpha Sigma Phi and the TXST Army ROTC. He aspired to serve as a U.S. Army officer and pursue a career in law enforcement. Salyer’s life was tragically cut short on September 16, 2021. His guiding principle, “Do the Right Thing,” continues to inspire the TXST community.

The ceremony brought together university leaders, students, family members, and community partners to honor Gonzales and reflect on Salyer’s enduring legacy of service.