If These Walls Could Talk

Shirley R. Hawkins is a native of Richmond, Virginia and was educated in Richmond City public schools. Upon graduating from Armstrong High School in 1961, she attended Richmond Professional Institute (RPI), now known as Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). She has been affiliated with many social organizations within the Richmond area. She also served as business and public relations manager for numerous organizations. Shirley retired from the Virginia Department for the Visually Handicapped after 32 years of service. She is the proud mother of one daughter, one granddaughter, and three great-granddaughters. She is a member of Divine World Changers International Ministries under the leadership of Pastor Dr. Derwin Hickman and Co-Pastor Shelly-Franswalla Hickman. She also created Kyia's Productions, Inc. in 2002, a modeling and production company to help equip students for ever-changing societal expectations.Shirley's introduction to preservationist, Zarina Fazaldin was the start of her historical journey. She had no idea of the historic background of 508 St. James Street when she was employed there in the 1960s. Despite what has already been written, she knew she had to do something to make sure others knew about the awesome, dedicated staff and the delightful, riveting stories of the blind/vision-impaired employees. Shirley's main goal is to renew your mind regarding the blind/vision impaired. She is excited by what is about to take place.