Caucasus University (CU) expresses its profound sorrow over the passing of Donald Edward Hawkins, Honorary Doctor of CU and a distinguished leader in the fields of global tourism and international education.
The Caucasus University (CU) shared this information through its official Facebook page on January 6, 2025, Tuesday. Additionally, the CU published a brief statement about Donald Edward.
Donald Edward Hawkins served as Chairman of Solimar International and as Professor Emeritus of Management, Tourism Studies, and International Affairs at George Washington University. Throughout his extensive professional career, he made an outstanding contribution to the development of sustainable tourism, the advancement of education, and the expansion of international cooperation.
While professor Emeritus of Tourism Studies at the GW School of Business, Don was appointed Special Advisor to the UNWTO Secretary General for the UNWTO Knowledge Network, the apex of his career. Those who have benefited from Don’s dedication to tourism include many colleagues, graduate students, tour operators, government officials, and 100’s of thousands of tourists worldwide.
In 2023, Caucasus University conferred upon him the degree of Doctor Honoris Causa in recognition of his exceptional academic and professional achievements, his significant support in Caucasus University’s successful attainment of UNWTO TedQual certification, and his valuable contribution to the development of Georgia’s higher education landscape.
Donald Edward Hawkins’s professional and human legacy will endure through the projects he initiated, the students he mentored, and the values he promoted across numerous countries worldwide. His life exemplified knowledge, responsibility, and a deep commitment to empowering people and institutions.
Caucasus University highlighted that Donald Edward Hawkins played a pivotal role in strengthening academic partnerships between Georgian and international institutions, contributing significantly to curriculum development, faculty capacity building, and the global recognition of tourism education programs. His guidance and mentorship left a lasting impact on students and academics alike, fostering a culture of excellence and international engagement.
Caucasus University extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, relatives, friends, and colleagues.
