Verdell Hawkins serves as economic development manager for FPL, where he facilitates business attraction and expansion efforts. Verdell has nearly 20 years of experience in community and economic development. His work includes business development activities across the United States, Canada and Europe.
He currently serves as chair of the Board of Directors of Florida’s Great Northwest, Northwest Region director for the Florida Economic Development Council, board member for the UWF HAAS Center Board of Economic Advisors, and board member for the University of Southern Mississippi Alumni Foundation. Verdell is also the current President of the Northwest Florida chapter of the African American Professionals Employee Group with FPL, and secretary for Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity. In addition, he is an involved member of the Pensacola Downtown Rotary.
Verdell received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Business Management and served as Student Body President at the University of Southern Mississippi. He also holds a Master’s in Public Administration from Georgia State University with specialization in planning and economic development. In addition, he is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute and is currently pursuing a PhD in International Development.
Verdell and his wife reside in the Pensacola area with their two children.