Dennis A. Hawkins, Jr. has facilitated performances on the podium as a conductor, in ensembles as a trumpet player, in lecture-based courses as an instructor, administratively as a certified nonprofit professional, and is a published author and reviewer. Hawkins currently serves as assistant director of bands at MTSU. 

In 2023, Dr. Hawkins was named a national finalist for The American Prize in Conducting. In addition to being a Safe Space ally and a certified participant in Mental Health First Aid USA, he is the current faculty-in-residence advisor for the Music@Middle living-learning community on campus.