Retirement reception to honor longtime dean Hawkins

The Purdue community is invited to a Dec. 5 retirement reception for L. Tony Hawkins, who was dean of students from 1995 to 2011, when he became associate vice president for student affairs.

The reception is scheduled for 3-5 p.m., with remarks at 4 p.m., at Dauch Alumni Center. The Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs is providing the reception to honor Hawkins. RSVPs are requested here by Nov. 26.

Hawkins has provided 38 years of service in student affairs at Purdue, starting in 1975 as a counselor. He had come to the West Lafayette campus in 1973 to pursue a PhD in counseling and student personnel services. While working full time, he completed his doctorate in December 1979.

He progressed through roles as assistant dean and associate dean, gaining experience in the whole range of services offered by the Office of the Dean of Students -- including off-campus housing; cooperative and Greek community advising; advisor to Purdue Student Government; coordinator of Student Activities and Organizations; coordinator of Services for Students with Disabilities; readmission; withdrawals; emergency loans; and personal, academic and career counseling. From July 1997 to August 1998, he served as interim vice president for student services.

As associate vice president for student affairs, Hawkins has responsibilities including oversight of the Division of Recreational Sports, Purdue Convocations, the Department of Bands, Purdue Musical Organizations, and all ROTC units. Currently he also is serving as interim dean of students.