Advocate for your advocate

Posted: March 10, 2015 2:20 p.m.

Karene Hawkins, student advocate for the University of Regina Students' Union Photo courtesy of Karene Hawkins

The University of Regina’s campus community is showing support for Karene Hawkins and her husband, Dave Hawkins.

Karene has been the advocate for the University of Regina Students’ Union since 1996. Right now she is facing her own struggles, as Dave has been diagnosed with Grade IV Glioblastoma Multiforme, a brain tumour considered incurable.

Dave has strong connections to the University of Regina. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History and Psychology (’92 - Campion College) and a Degree in Education from the University of Regina. He’s currently the vice-principal at Milestone School and is working on his final course to complete his Masters in Educational Administration at the University of Regina.

As a show of support, The University of Regina Students’ Union is holding a fundraiser on March 11 called Advocate for your Advocate.

“I am extremely humbled by URSU’s efforts to help support my family through a difficult time,” says Karene. “We tend to be private people and therefore would not have pursued a campaign such as this on our own.”

As a student advocate, Karene and others in her position provide students with a safe, confidential place to bring questions and concerns. The services include academic and disciplinary appeals but extend to a wide variety of issues students face.

“Karene has done so much for students over the years,” says Devon Peters, President of URSU. “She’s been a fixer, a champion of student rights and a protector for thousands of students. Her work is often unglamorous but it makes an undeniable difference. I would encourage students to attend and give back.”

Karene says the show of support has helped.

“This event has opened up our eyes to see all of the compassionate and generous support that surrounds all of us in our day-to-day lives. This in-of-itself makes the daily fight so much more worthwhile and significant,” says Karene. “The funds collected will provide our family with more options and opportunities to explore alternative treatments and to make some lasting and meaningful memories for my children.”

Event: Advocate for your Advocate
Date: March 11
Time: 9 p.m.
Location: The Owl – University of Regina
A fundraising page has also been set up by URSU:
To donate please visit:
http://www.gofundme.com/nd02p0