leads the development and administration of Shoestrings, a specialized early childhood program supporting young children’s social-emotional development, sensory integration, and school success

Hawkins is a social worker, therapist, educator, and program leader whose career spans clinical practice, public education, program development, professional training, child and adolescent mental health, social-emotional learning, parenting support, and trauma-informed practices. She began her career as a clinician and therapist supporting children and families, including parents and guardians whose children were at risk of out-of-home placement. She is also the founder of C. Hawkins & Associates, LLC, through which she provides professional development, consultation, and therapy services. Hawkins is the co-founder of Black Girl, Brown Girl Books, created to increase representation of Black and Brown children in literature, and co-author of School Social Work: Engaging Social Justice and Racial Equity.

 

Hawkins earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Norfolk State University. Her work bridges therapy, education, mental health, racial equity, and community advocacy, with a commitment to helping children, families, and communities thrive. As a Gardena alumna, she is proud to bring her experiences and commitment back to the community that helped shape her.