Nikki Hawkins, MS

Director of People and Operations

Contact: nhawkins@engagerd.com

Nikishia (Nikki) is a seasoned executive with over two decades of experience efficaciously leading HR and operations at progressive and high-performing organizations in the non-profit and education reform sectors. Nikki is committed to advancing social justice and racial equity and supporting underrepresented and underserved communities. For the past 22 years, she has led and supported many programs and organizations, which all have shared the mission of connecting individuals from underserved populations to the resources and supports necessary to create better opportunities for children, families, and communities. Nikki has been on staff at several organizations, including UpTogether, Uncommon Schools, and One Family, Inc.

Nikki is an employee experience enthusiast and organizational culture crafter. She is passionate about ensuring that organizations' values, culture, and operating practices align with innovative, inclusive, and equitable people-first practices and policies that foster a well-defined org culture and a positive staff experience and retain an exceptional team of diverse and mission-aligned professionals.

Nikki is a native of Roxbury, MA, a first-generation college graduate, and a mom of two kids—a son, Arend Jr (21), and a daughter, Gianna (16).

Education

Master of Science, Management and Leadership from Springfield College

Bachelor of Arts, Human Services, University of Massachusetts

Graduate Certificate, HR Management, University of Georgia

Certification, Professional in Human Resources (PHR), Human Resource Standards Insititute