For many years, Hawkins held the Eisenhower Chair of Tourism Policy at the School of Business of The George Washington University (GWU), where he also taught management, tourism studies, and international relations, later serving as professor emeritus. His leadership at GWU not only strengthened academic research in tourism and hospitality, but also contributed decisively to the recognition and credibility of this field among academia, public authorities, and the private sector.
Beyond his influence in academia, Dr. Hawkins played an active role as an international consultant and advisor. He served as President and CEO of Solimar International, a global tourism development firm operating across multiple regions, where he worked with governments, development banks, multilateral organizations, and local authorities to design sustainable tourism strategies, strengthen institutional capacity, and promote sound destination governance. His approach consistently integrated community development, respecting the cultural identity of territories while advocating for shared benefits for local populations.
Recognition of his global impact included major international distinctions, among them the Ulysses Prize of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 2003, awarded for outstanding achievements in the creation and dissemination of knowledge in tourism management and policy. He also served as Vice-Chair of the UNWTO Affiliate Members Council and as Special Advisor to the Secretary-General for the Knowledge Network, reflecting the confidence placed in his judgement and strategic vision.
Committed to a human-centered vision of tourism, Hawkins also founded and led several organizations dedicated to sustainability and inclusive development, including the SAVE Travel Alliance, and served as Emeritus President of Sustainable Travel International and of the Volunteers for Economic Growth Alliance. He participated actively in boards such as Tourism Cares and was among the early members of the World Tourism Network, advocating for a more resilient and inclusive tourism economy, with particular attention to small and medium-sized enterprises.
Voices across the sector were quick to acknowledge his influence. The President of the Tourism and Society Think Tank, Mr. Antonio Santos del Valle, highlighted his role in the professionalization of tourism and, specifically, the joint work undertaken to strengthen the role of Affiliate Members within the World Tourism Organization, where they served together on the Affiliate Members Board. Global leaders such as Gloria Guevara, interim President of the World Travel & Tourism Council, alongside academics and international professionals, expressed both shock and gratitude for his guidance, personal warmth, and strategic insight, underscoring the profound mark he left both personally and professionally.
Over the course of his career, Hawkins authored or contributed to more than 114 publications, including books, peer-reviewed articles, monographs, and educational materials that remain essential references in tourism, sustainability, and destination management. His academic and professional legacy has shaped generations of leaders who today hold key roles in governments, international organizations, universities, and tourism businesses around the world.
As this outstanding pioneer is remembered, the Tourism and Society Think Tank, together with the wider global tourism community, recognizes not only his intellectual contribution but also his ethical spirit and unwavering belief in tourism that puts people first, safeguards natural and cultural resources, and generates shared prosperity. Dr. Donald E. Hawkins leaves an enduring legacy whose impact will continue to be felt in educational practice, public policy, and tourism development strategies worldwide.
