Roosevelt Hawkins, Jr. is a congressional staffer, fourth-generation farmer, and social and environmental justice advocate. He co-operates Hawkins Farms, a 220-acre family-owned operation north of Bolton, Mississippi, focused on cattle production and sustainable land stewardship. Raised with strong values of faith, hard work, and service, Roosevelt credits his upbringing on the farm for shaping his lifelong commitment to agriculture and community leadership.
A graduate of Clinton High School (Class of 2013), he earned a B.A. in History from Jackson State University and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Policy and Administration with a concentration in Community and Economic Development.
At Hawkins Farms, Roosevelt implements sustainable and climate-smart practices to strengthen soil health, livestock productivity, and long-term agricultural resilience. His farm was selected as a model farm in Mississippi under President Biden’s Climate-Smart Commodities program, reflecting his leadership in advancing innovative agricultural practices. In recognition of his work, he was named the 2022 Farmer of the Year by the National Black Farmers Association. He is also Co-Founder of the Hinds County Small Cattleman’s Club and recently launched Southern Soil Alliance, an organization dedicated to supporting minority farmers, advancing climate-smart agriculture, preserving Southern agricultural heritage, and cultivating the next generation of rural leaders.
Professionally, Roosevelt serves as Field Representative and Caseworker for U.S. Congressman Bennie G. Thompson, representing Rural Hinds, Claiborne, and Holmes Counties. In this role, he assists constituents with federal agencies, addresses rural infrastructure and water system challenges, supports economic development initiatives, and works to ensure federal resources effectively reach underserved communities. Through agriculture, policy, and service, Roosevelt remains committed to strengthening rural communities and expanding opportunity for future generations.
