Office of the President

Charles E. Hawkins

Charles E. Hawkins
Chuck Hawkins 

  • Charles E. Hawkins is Professor of Physics in the Department of Physics and Geology, College of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Hawkins came to Northern Kentucky University in 1980 as an Associate Professor of Physics in the Department of Physical Sciences. Prior to coming to Northern, he taught physics at Spring Arbor College (now University) in Michigan. 2008-09 was Dr. Hawkins' 40th year in higher education. He has an A.B. degree in physics from Greenville College, and a Ph.D. in physics from Dartmouth.
     
  • Dr. Hawkins' specialty is plasma physics, and among other things, he did research on spacecraft propulsion with NASA. He had the first ever NASA research grant among NKU faculty. In 1988, he became Director of Academic Computing, in which role he oversaw equipping of the computing labs in the new AS&T Center. He also oversaw two major upgrades to central academic computers, and NKU's first connection to the internet. From 1994 to 1996, he served in various IT roles, including liaison with the engineers and specifying equipment for the campus-wide network.
     
  • Dr. Hawkins has just completed 11 years as chair of the Department of Physics and Geology. During that period, he managed the department's move to the new science center and served 3 years as chair of the Council of Chairs.
     
  • Dr. Hawkins lives in Fort Thomas; he has a son Rob and granddaughter Rowan who live in Baltimore, MD; a daughter Rachael who lives in Covington, and a daughter Elyse, who lives at home. Rachael is an NKU alumna, and Elyse will be this year.
     
  • Chuck is a member of the Northern Kentucky Community Chorus and the Chancel Choir at St. John's UCC, Newport.