Mary Hawkins

Since Dr. Mary Hawkins arrived in 1995, Bellevue University enrollment experienced record growth and has been consistently ranked as one of the nation’s best online learning and military friendly institutions.

Dr. Hawkins led the development and implementation of Bellevue University’s online learning model, one of the first and most effective online learning systems in the U.S.

From assessing a market need to developing curriculum, to piloting and marketing the programs through enrollment of students – Dr. Hawkins is instrumental in developing new programs. She established partnerships between the University, corporations and community colleges throughout the Midwest.

Strongly focused on non-traditional students, supporting class schedule flexibility and open enrollment, Dr. Hawkins has been keenly supportive of working mothers, military spouses and other adult learners to continue their education while juggling their careers and families.

Dr. Hawkins implemented the South Omaha Outreach project and scholarship program which currently serves residents of South Omaha.

She is a member of a number of associations including the American Council on Education, the Nebraska Independent College Foundation and the Oracle Education and Research Industry Strategy Council.

Hawkins serves on numerous local and national boards including the Boy Scouts of America, United Way of the Midlands, Greater Omaha Chamber and the Omaha Business Ethics Alliance.

Dr. Hawkins is described as always looking for ways to better her community and is not afraid to roll up her sleeves to help get the job done. In her private life, she is an avid runner requiring a great deal of energy and determination.

Putting that same kind of energy and determination into everything that she does, Hawkins greatly benefits the entire community.

Dr. Hawkins received her Bachelor of Science in Business and Public Administration from the University of Arizona and her Master of Science in Agricultural Economics from the University of California-Davis. She earned her Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1998.