About the Foundation

Promoting a more peaceful and just world

Established in 1988, the Vincent L. Hawkinson Foundation for Peace and Justice honors a remarkable leader who fearlessly addressed oppression and inequality in all its forms. As pastor of Grace University Lutheran Church in Minneapolis for more than 30 years, Rev. Hawkinson believed it was the duty of religious leaders to stand up and speak out against injustices and violence in the world.

Upon his retirement in 1988, members of his congregation founded the Foundation to perpetuate the tireless spirit of this man of faith. The Foundation keeps his dream alive by recognizing those who have made long-term contributions to the causes of peace and justice with the Hawkinson Honorary Award, and by encouraging students who have demonstrated a commitment to peace and justice with the Hawkinson Scholarship.

Since its beginnings, the Foundation has honored 33 veteran peacemakers and awarded scholarships to 96 students, totaling more than $120,000. The Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

OUR MISSION

To perpetuate the work and spirit of Vincent L. Hawkinson, the Foundation seeks to:

  • Honor individuals who have made significant and sustained contributions to peace and justice,
  • Award scholarships to students who have demonstrated a deep commitment to peace and justice, and
  • Publicize the activities of honorees and scholarship recipients so that others are encouraged and inspired to action for peace and justice.

PLEASE JOIN WITH US

A goal of the Foundation is to expand the Hawkinson Scholarship program, which is aimed at nurturing the ethical, responsible leaders so needed by the world. To provide more scholarships, we must widen our circle of supporters. We cordially invite you to join with us, in Pastor Hawkinson's words, "to work faithfully for a better world." Your tax-deductible financial contribution is sincerely appreciated. As a Hawkinson Foundation supporter, you will receive the Foundation's annual report, which tells the inspiring stories of each year's scholarship recipients, and invitations to the Foundation's Annual Award Presentation and other events.

LEARN MORE

For more information about the Foundation, please call us at 612-331-8125 or email at info@graceattheu.org. The Foundation office is located at Grace University Lutheran Church, 324 Harvard Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414.