The Golden Hawk Award represents the highest recognition presented to alumni of Dickinson State University. Selection is based on professional achievement, significant contributions to local community, state, or nation through public service, and loyalty to Dickinson State University and its students.

Huffman enrolled at Dickinson State in the fall of 1947 before enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1950 and serving for four years. He returned to Dickinson State University and received a bachelor of education degree in 1955. Upon his graduation, he went to work at Dickinson High School as a teacher and football, wrestling, and track coach. He later obtained a master's degree from the University of North Dakota and joined Dickinson State University as an instructor of physical education.

Huffman also served as a head football, track, and assistant basketball coach at Dickinson State University and was elevated to the position of athletic director in 1966. He was appointed as university registrar in 1984 and served in that position until his retirement in the spring of 1991.

While at DSU, Huffman's teams won six conference track and cross country titles. He was named NAIA District 12 Track Coach of the Year three times and Cross Country Coach of the Year twice. He was directly involved in the planning of Wienbergen Hall and Whitney Stadium and initiated the first women's athletic program in the conference. Huffman track is named in his honor. 

Huffman is a member of the DSU Athletic Hall of Fame as both a player and as a coach. He has been a member of the Blue Hawk Booster Club since 1965, served as an initial contributor to the Whitney Stadium building fund, and has helped support the university through attendance at various events throughout the school year, participation in the Steer for State program, the annual Phonathon and the DSU Walk of Pride and International Flag Plaza.

Huffman and his wife, Jean, have three sons and five grandchildren.