TUNICA – Former Ranger and NJCAA First Team All-American offensive tackle Donald Hawkins has been on the receiving end of numerous awards and honors on the football field as a college player, but on Monday, the Tunica native was able to give back to his local community as a professional.

Hawkins rewarded 10 high academic achieving students in the Tunica County School District by donating iPads, tablets, bicycles and Visa gift cards. In addition, Hawkins donated $2,500 in cash to the district.

"It's always nice to put a smile on a kids face," Hawkins said. "Never forget where you come from but always remember where you are going."

After playing his final two seasons at The University of Texas, Hawkins signed with the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent and also saw time in the preseason with the Cleveland Browns before being claimed by the Dallas Cowboys. He signed a three-year contract in September.

The Cowboys are 10-4 on the season, lead the Eagles by a game in the NFC East and are potential candidates to attain homefield advantage in the playoffs.

Hawkins is the 41st player from Northwest Community College to play in the NFL.