College for Design and Social Inquiry Names New Dean


By lisa metcalf | 7/13/2017

Wesley Hawkins, Ph.D., has been named the new dean of the College for Design and Social Inquiry at Florida Atlantic University, following a national search. In addition to a distinguished record of scholarship and teaching, Hawkins brings a wealth of strengths and knowledge from the College to the position of Dean, having served as the interim dean for the College for two years. 

“Dr. Hawkins began his role as interim dean two years ago by embarking on an ambitious plan to improve governance, increase research activity, and engage the community,” said Gary Perry, Ph.D., FAU provost. “With his record of hallmark accomplishments in these areas, no one else is better fit to lead the College on a permanent basis.”

Most recently, Hawkins was a key player in securing a $7 million gift from the Sandler family to name the Phyllis and Harvey Sander School of Social Work at FAU. He also has held administrative positions at FAU that include associate provost of promotion and tenure, as well as director of the School of Social Work.

“It is an honor and a privilege to continue in the role as dean for the College,” Hawkins said. “I continue to be inspired by the College’s remarkable faculty and staff and it is very fulfilling to be a part of all of the fine work they are doing in the important areas of social work, criminology, architecture, urban and regional planning, as well as public administration. Each one plays a critical role in today’s society and FAU is at the forefront of that.”

Hawkins earned a Ph.D., in public health education from Southern Illinois University, a master’s degree in social work from the Catholic University of America, and a Bachelor of Science degree in education and social science from Truman State College. 

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