Austin Community College District (ACC) is proud to recognize Michael Lofton, founder and CEO of the African American Youth Harvest Foundation and the Harvest Trauma Recovery Center, with this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award.

The award is the highest honor presented at the College’s annual Alumni Achievement Awards and is reserved for those whose work has transformed lives and communities. The special recognition was presented to Lofton at ACC’s 2nd annual Alumni Achievement Awards. View, download, and share photos from this year’s event here.

A Leader in Community Impact
Lofton’s career is defined by service, philanthropy, and a deep commitment to equity. Through the African American Youth Harvest Foundation, Lofton provides thousands of Central Texans with wraparound services each year. These include mental health support, education programs, workforce training, and access to basic needs — all closely aligned with ACC’s mission to remove barriers and create opportunities for success.

Lofton also pioneered the state’s first Trauma Recovery Center (TRC) and went on to launch the nation’s first TRC with equine therapy. His visionary leadership brought together more than 20 nonprofits under one roof, offering holistic support for at-risk populations in the Austin area.

A Lifelong Partner to ACC
Beyond his groundbreaking work in the community, Lofton has been a steadfast partner to ACC. He has supported student scholarships through the Austin Community Foundation and continues to champion education as a powerful tool for transformation.

To learn more about all the alumni recognized at the 2025 Alumni Achievement Awards, visit alumni.austincc.edu/alumni-awards. To join ACC’s Alumni network, visit austincc.edu/alumni.