Denise Hawkins, Director of Communications and Engagement

Denise Hawkins is Director of Communications and Engagement. She leads strategic marketing, branding, and communications initiatives for Chapel Haven Schleifer Center, with a focus on elevating the organization’s national visibility and amplifying the voices and stories that define its transformative work.

Denise has over 20 years’ experience in strategic communications, media relations, and brand building. She began her career in agency life at public relations firms in New York City, where she rose through the ranks specializing in publicity and event planning for luxury lifestyle, consumer products, and nonprofit clients.

Prior to joining Chapel Haven, Denise served for nearly a decade as Director of Public Relations at e-commerce company SCS Direct Inc., where she established and led the internal PR department. In that role, she managed national media outreach, influencer marketing, social media and high-profile publicity events.

She holds a B.S. in Communications from Southern Connecticut State University.