Hawkins has served as Bellevue University’s fourth president since 2009. She first joined the university in 1995 as vice president for enrollment and outreach and was appointed provost in 1999. During her tenure, Bellevue has experienced record increases in student enrollment and has been consistently recognized as one of the country’s best institutions for working adults and military personnel. In addition, the private, nonprofit school in Nebraska has established a strong and growing presence in the Hispanic community, both locally and nationally. In 2000, Hawkins kick-started an outreach project and launched a scholarship program for Omaha’s South Omaha Hispanic community. Whether engaged locally, regionally or nationally, Hawkins has earned a reputation as a self-motivated, involved, hands-on leader who is quick to address an issue after it arises. She is a member of several associations, such as the American Council on Education, the Nebraska Independent College Foundation and the Oracle Education and Research Industry Strategy Council. Hawkins serves on many local and national boards including the Boy Scouts of America, United way of the Midlands, Greater Omaha Chamber and the Omaha Business Ethics Alliance.
