Jerry L. Hawkins, M.Ed.

Jerry Hawkins is the Executive Director of Dallas Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation (DTRHT), an initiative aimed at addressing race and racism in Dallas through narrative change and equitable policies. He is also a co-founder of The Imagining Freedom Institute, which focuses on understanding the historical context of contemporary issues related to race and space.

Hawkins has an extensive background in leadership and community service, having served in various roles, including Project Director for Bachman Lake Together and Director of Children's Services at the Wilkinson Center. He has been recognized with several awards, such as the PBS/KERA's American Graduate Champion in 2017 and nominations for "Best Community Leader" by The Dallas Weekly in 2022 and 2023. Additionally, he was named one of the “Dallas 500 Most Powerful Business Leaders in North Texas” by D CEO/D Magazine in 2021 and 2022.

His educational background includes a degree in Early Childhood Education and Child & Family Services from Southern Illinois University and a Master's degree in Education from Northeastern Illinois University. Hawkins is also a fellow of the Black Leadership Institute, which connects and uplifts senior-level Black leaders across various sectors.123