Overview of Representative Hawker and UAA

Representative Hawker was first elected in 2002 and can be responsive to University issues. In 2004 he worked to get bond funding for new University facilities, especially the UAA Integrated Science Building. Although he is conservative on the operating budget, Representative Hawker has met with University officials to understand needs and to find ways to help. His attempt to delay implementation of the new pension programs for the University is to be commended. He received endorsements from APEA/AFT and United Academics in 2006 election.

He was endorsed by United Academics AAUP/AFT and APEA/AFT in 2008. Representative Hawker was a key member of the House in 2009 serving as a co-chair of the House Finance Committee and as a member of the Conference Committee. Representative Hawker was resistant to funding the UAA Integrated Science Building at an appropriate level. Representative Hawker also was a primary sponsor for HB30 which would repeal the current defined contribution retirement plans.

Representative Hawker met with the Association’s executive committee in September 2009. The executive committee appreciated Representative Hawker taking the time to share his insights.

In 2010 as the chair of the House Finance Committee, Representative Hawker recommended reducing the University’s budget request below that of the governor’s budget. He was controversial during the committee hearings by introducing a funding ratio for the University’s operating budget which would result in lowering the state support for UA. Representative Hawker was endorsed by APEA during the 2010 General Election. In 2011, Representative Hawker was not supportive of the University.