Sterling Hawkins
Phoenix
Summary
Dynamic Music & Life Enrichment Instructor with a proven track record at Oakwood Creative Care, specializing in therapeutic recreation and cognitive engagement for adults with dementia. Expert in fostering relationships and creating individualized programming that enhances emotional well-being. Strong communicator and creative problem-solver dedicated to enriching lives through engaging activities.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Music & Life Enrichment Instructor
Oakwood Creative Care
Chandler
12.2025 - Current
- Design and facilitate individualized music, art, games, and cognitive enrichment activities for adults living with dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
- Foster meaningful social interaction and emotional well-being through engaging, person-centered programming.
- Adapt activities to participants' cognitive and physical abilities to maximize participation and enjoyment.
- Build trusting relationships with participants and families while creating a safe, welcoming environment.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary staff to support participants' daily care and quality of life.
Child Development & Enrichment Nanny
Phoenix
06.2024 - 11.2025
- Planned and led age-appropriate creative, educational and recreational activities to support child development.
- Fostered a safe, nurturing environment that encouraged independence, confidence, and positive behavior.
- Communicated regularly with parents regarding routines, progress, and developmental milestones.
- Managed daily schedules, meal preparation, and household tasks related to children's care.
Server
Chestnut Fine Foods
Phoenix
12.2023 - 05.2025
- Delivered exceptional, personalized service while building positive relationships with guests in a fast-paced environment.
- Communicated effectively with customers and team members to ensure a seamless dining experience.
- Managed multiple priorities with professionalism, adaptability, and attention to detail.
- Fostered a welcoming atmosphere through attentive service and a clean, organized environment.
Social Media & Community Engagement Coordinator
Painting With A Twist - Phoenix
Phoenix
07.2023 - 03.2024
- Developed engaging social media content to promote classes, events, and community participation.
- Collaborated with team members to create creative marketing campaigns and event promotions.
- Designed digital content, including social media posts, email campaigns, and promotional materials that reflected the company's brand.
- Fostered an active online community by engaging with customers and strengthening audience relationships.
Server
The White Chocolate Grill
Scottsdale
09.2021 - 10.2023
- Delivered attentive, personalized service while creating a welcoming experience for guests in a fast-paced environment.
- Built strong relationships with regular customers through friendly, engaging communication.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure efficient service and resolve guest needs.
- Maintained an organized, guest-ready dining environment while balancing multiple priorities.
Retail Sales Associate
Captain's Helm
San Diego
05.2021 - 09.2021
- Assisted customers with product selection through attentive service and personalized recommendations.
- Created a welcoming shopping experience by building rapport and responding to customer needs.
- Maintained organized merchandise displays and an inviting retail environment.
- Collaborated with team members to support daily operations and customer satisfaction.
Child Care & Enrichment Provider
Busy Bees Babysitting
Phoenix
01.2019 - 01.2021
- Planned engaging educational, creative, and music-based activities to support children's learning and development.
- Assisted with homework, daily routines, meal preparation, and bedtime while maintaining a safe, nurturing environment.
- Fostered creativity, confidence, and positive behavior through interactive play and storytelling.
- Partnered with parents to ensure consistent communication regarding children's routines and progress.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Graphic Design
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZSkills
- Music Instruction
- Life Enrichment
- Activity Planning
- Group Facilitation
- Memory Care
- Dementia Care
- Alzheimer's Care
- Therapeutic Recreation
- Adult Education
- Cognitive Engagement
- Creative Arts
- Music-Based Programming
- Lesson Planning
- Classroom Instruction
- Individualized Programming
- Community Engagement
- Relationship Building
- Communication
- Team Collaboration
- Leadership
- Training & Development
- Time Management
- Organization
- Creativity
- Guitar
- Child Development
- Senior Care
- Microsoft Office
- Canva
Websites
Certification
- CPR Certification
- Driver's License
Timeline
Music & Life Enrichment Instructor
Oakwood Creative Care
12.2025 - Current
Child Development & Enrichment Nanny
06.2024 - 11.2025
Server
Chestnut Fine Foods
12.2023 - 05.2025
Social Media & Community Engagement Coordinator
Painting With A Twist - Phoenix
07.2023 - 03.2024
Server
The White Chocolate Grill
09.2021 - 10.2023
Retail Sales Associate
Captain's Helm
05.2021 - 09.2021
Child Care & Enrichment Provider
Busy Bees Babysitting
01.2019 - 01.2021
Some College (No Degree) - Graphic Design
Grand Canyon University