New LGBT Resource Center Director
Harry Hawkins (he/him/his) has been selected as the new director of the LGBT Resource Center, which dual reports to both Student Affairs and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
Hawkins currently serves as the director of the LGBT Center at Case Western Reserve University
in Cleveland, Ohio.
“Harry has had time to occupy a director role and I believe he can apply what he has learned and contribute to all the work that has already been done at the U," said Bryan Hubain, associate vice president for Student Development & Inclusion. "I envision a powerful and dynamic team at the LGBT RC under his leadership."
Hawkins is an advocate and higher education professional seasoned in creating community partnerships, developing and delivering educational campaigns and programs, and spearheading organizational priorities. Prior to Case Western, he served as the University of Missouri-St. Louis’ first LGBTQ+ Coordinator.
Hawkins has a long and successful history in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. He completed his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Mississippi State University, where he and his peers founded the university’s first Safe Zone program. Hawkins was active in promoting social justice efforts on campus and in his community. After completing his M.S. at Mississippi State, Hawkins went on to work for the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ and civil rights organization. He spent three years as the HRC Field Coordinator in their Mississippi field office, where he energetically worked to promote LGBTQ+ advocacy initiatives to achieve LGBTQ+ equality.
“While this process took longer than we wanted it to, in the end, we wanted the right person for the right time," said Daniel Cairo, assistant vice president for equity diversity and inclusion. "I am confident that Harry will do two things that are top priorities for us. First, ground our work through harmful legislation and second, lead the center to where it needs to be in five years with students in mind."
Hawkins will begin his new role on April 1, 2023.