Dr. Seanelle Hawkins

President & CEO, Urban League of Rochester

Dr. Seanelle Hawkins

As the first woman to serve as President and CEO of the Urban League of Rochester (ULR), Dr. Seanelle Hawkins has consistently demonstrated her commitment to transparent engagement and advocacy for the Rochester community. Celebrating her fifth anniversary in this leadership role, Dr. Hawkins has significantly advanced the organization’s mission and impact. 

Under Dr. Hawkins’ leadership, ULR’s operating budget has doubled, and the organization has expanded its programs, prioritizing public health initiatives. Her personal and meticulous approach to every program and staff member has propelled ULR to exceed expectations in program performance, fundraising, and community recognition. Dr. Hawkins has emphasized public safety through gun violence prevention programs and expanded trades and skill-building programs, ensuring individuals have access to good jobs and pathways for upward mobility. 

ULR has reclaimed its status as the premier civil rights organization in the Greater Rochester area under Dr. Hawkins’ direction. She introduced the INTERRUPT RACISM initiative, now in its fifth year, which includes an annual summit, year-long Interrupt Racism cohorts, and school programs in several districts. Additionally, Dr. Hawkins was appointed by the Mayor of Rochester and the County Executive to lead the RASE (Race and Structural Equity) Commission’s Phase Two, championing community recommendations that prioritize equity in housing, employment, mental health and addiction, business, policing, and other areas affected by systemic racism. 

An expert in community engagement and cultural change, advocacy, transitional and permanent supportive housing, fiscal stewardship, strategic planning, and staff development, Dr. Hawkins brings over 25 years of nonprofit executive leadership experience to her role. Her background includes various executive positions in nonprofits and program consultancies. 

A native of Brooklyn, NY, Dr. Hawkins earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Syracuse University, a Master’s in Strategic Leadership from Roberts Wesleyan University, and a Doctorate of Education from the Executive Leadership Program at St. John Fisher University. 

In 2024, Dr. Hawkins was appointed to the New York State Community Commission on Reparation Remedies and serves as their Chair. (If you would like to contact Dr. Hawkins about reparations, please email her at seanelle.hawkins@reparations.ny.gov.)

Dr. Hawkins actively serves on several boards, including The Council of Agency Executives, Inc., Excellus Health Plan Inc., ROC2025 Board, M&T Bank Directors Advisory Council, and Person Centered Services. She is also the President of the Rochester Women’s Council. 

Residing in Rochester with her husband John and their six-year-old daughter Zoe, Dr. Hawkins remains committed to fostering equity and creating a more just community.