‘First Things First’ welcomes Rev. Dr. Darren Hawkins

Yuma pastor Rev. Dr. Darren Hawkins was recently confirmed by the state Senate to serve on the nine-member ‘First Things First’ board, which oversees statewide efforts to expand services that enhance school readiness for children birth to age 5.

Hawkins is currently a senior pastor of the Sierra Vista Presbyterian Church in Yuma and previously served as Chair of the FTF Yuma Regional Partnership Council.

Hawkins holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Point Loma Nazarene University, a Master’s of Divinity degree from Fuller Theological Seminary, a Master’s in Marriage and Family Counseling from Fuller School of Psychology, and a Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Theology from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.

Gov. Doug Ducey nominated Hawkins for the seat.

“I have seen firsthand the difference First Things First has made in the life of children and I believe that work is worth supporting with my time and energy” Hawkins said. “I know that serving on the state Board, I can both share and receive information and insight that will benefit young children in my community and communities throughout Arizona. For me, Board service is about more than getting kids ready for school and set for life; it’s about giving kids the best possible start they can have in the State of Arizona.”

FTF Board Chair Nadine Mathis Basha said he would bring a valued perspective to the board and its work.

” When you look at the FTF Board, it includes the insight and perspectives of parents, grandparents, elected tribal leaders, private enterprise, health professionals and policymakers” Basha said. “Rev. Hawkins is a wonderful complement to the expertise that exists on the Board.”

Hawkins has had the opportunity to work in Christian education, stewardship, outreach, fellowship, personnel and mission committees. He also has been actively involved in a number of community programs.

FTF has invested in strategies that have strengthened families in their role as their child’s first teachers and improved the quality of early learning for 68,000 children statewide