Penny Hawkins appointed associate vice chancellor of development

Penny Hawkins has been appointed associate vice chancellor for development at UNC Charlotte. She has served in the role in an interim capacity since July 15, 2022. She succeeds Beth Crigler, who was appointed recently vice chancellor for university advancement.

Since Hawkins joined the University in 2021 as senior director of development for strategic planning and gifts, she has played an integral role in the University’s record-breaking fundraising successes, laying the foundation for a future comprehensive campaign. She was integral in helping the University secure the historic gift from the Mebane Foundation, totaling up to $23 million, to support literacy education.

“Penny’s expertise and relationships throughout North Carolina have been critical in securing the investments that support our students’ success,” said Crigler. “She is an advocate for Charlotte, and I know her leadership will continue to yield exceptional results for our fundraising efforts.”

Prior to joining the University, Hawkins was a senior consultant for PMA Nonprofit Leadership where she worked closely with dozens of organizations in every nonprofit sector. Her past experience also includes all aspects of fund development, capital campaign planning and execution, board and leadership volunteer management and major and principal gift work with Novant Health, KinderMourn and the Council for Children’s Rights.

“Charlotte is my home, and I know the transformative power our University has on our city,” said Hawkins. “I am proud to lead a team of professionals that are dedicated to ensuring our students, faculty and staff have the resources they need to achieve success.”

Hawkins is a Certified Fundraising Executive and graduate of UNC Chapel Hill. She is a local and national leader of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and has been honored as a recipient of the 50 Most Influential Women Award from The Mecklenburg Times.