Dr. Billy C. Hawkins Biography

Dr. Billy C. Hawkins became the 20th President of Talladega College beginning January 1, 2008. Previously, he served as the 20th President of Texas College from December 1, 2000 to December 31, 2007.

Under Dr. Hawkins’ leadership, Texas College underwent a complete transformation and revitalization. Tremendous growth was evident in literally every area of the institution including an 82% increase in student enrollment within the first ten months of his tenure. To his credit, the institution stabilized its finances, regained accreditation in 2001, and regained membership in the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).

Dr. Hawkins implemented five new academic programs, constructed three new facilities, remodeled all academic and student service facilities, procured property assets, eliminated all long term debt, and started seven new athletic programs which won three championships. Adding to the school’s successful turnaround, the college received a new 10 year accreditation in 2006.

A native of Kent, Ohio, Dr. Hawkins holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Teacher Education from Ferris State University, a Master of Arts degree in Education Administration from Central Michigan University, and a Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from Michigan State University in Education Administration. He has completed post doctorate study at Harvard University.

Dr. Hawkins has been in education for 32 years. He began his successful career as a teacher in the Lansing Michigan Public Schools System. His passion for teaching led him to the field of higher education where he has served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs/Professor at Mississippi Valley State University; Vice President for Academic Affairs/Professor at Saint Paul’s College in Lawrenceville, Virginia; Acting Dean, Associate Dean, and Assistant Dean/Professor in the College of Education at Ferris State University; and as Director of Educational Opportunity Program, State University of New York at Morrisville College.

An advocate for education, Dr. Hawkins was featured on the ABC Evening News with the late Peter Jennings and the U.S. News and World Report. He has been listed in Who’s Who among Executives and Professionals in 2005-2006. He is the author of two books, “Educating All Students (A Pathway to Success)”, and “Reaching for the Stars”. Recognized for his expertise in the education of our nation’s young people, he has been the keynote speaker at regional and national conferences and has testified before committees of the U.S. Congress.

Dr. Hawkins has served on numerous boards including as a member of the Southside Virginia Business and Education Commission appointed by Mr. James S. Gilmore, III, and former Governor of Virginia.

Additionally, he was appointed to serve on the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Capital Financing Advisory Board by former Secretary of Education Rod Page. Also, he serves as a member of the UNCF Board of Directors, and a member of the NAIA President’s Council. The recipient of numerous honors and awards, Dr. Hawkins was inducted into the Kent City Schools Hall of Fame in 2004 and in 2007, he was inducted into the Elementary Alumni Hall of Fame in Kent, Ohio. Dr. Hawkins is a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.