VPFA R.I.S.E. - March 2026

Erin Haworth
Emergency & Event Management Coordinator, CSES

Please tell me about your career journey. What drew you to working at the university?

My career journey has been quite unorthodox. My education is in Police Foundations, and I’ve held various roles within municipal government and non-profit organizations. Each role has allowed me to grow and expand my knowledge in areas like finance, project management, and community engagement. In October 2022, I joined Queen's University as the Administrative Coordinator for Campus Security and Emergency Services, and last summer, I moved into my current position as the Emergency and Event Management Coordinator.

I was drawn to Queen’s University because of the opportunity for growth and the chance to immerse myself in an environment that would challenge me. From the outset, I was intentional about developing strong peer relationships, recognizing that meaningful connections with those around me would help shape my professional growth. I actively sought out opportunities to build relationships, collaborate with others, and contribute to a community grounded in mutual support and shared development, such as the Exploring Leadership and Emerging Leadership programming offered by HR. Through both leadership programs, I gained deeper insight into my leadership style and learned to more effectively harness my strengths while empowering those around me.

Please tell me about a typical workday. What do you enjoy most about your role?

There is no typical day in my role; each day presents its own unique challenges and I am constantly triaging what comes in. I work within a fast-paced, ever-evolving environment, which means I must think quickly and adapt. What I enjoy most is the support and camaraderie within my team; we rely on one another throughout the day.

My role provides additional uniformed response support during periods of heightened security demand, such as protests, high-profile or potentially controversial public appearances, and high-risk campus events like Homecoming or St. Patrick’s Day. Additionally, I will begin to engage with staff and faculty across campus to focus on safety planning and emergency management, further strengthening campus preparedness and response capabilities for the broader Queen’s community.

What motivates or inspires you?

Connection with people and the land motivates me. I was raised to have an immense respect for the land and for all those who share it. I believe it's our shared responsibility to be caretakers and protectors of the environment for future generations.

What have been some of the most important lessons you’ve learned throughout your career?

One of many lessons I've learned is to never discount the wealth of knowledge and abilities within others. Each person brings unique skills and experiences to the table.

I’ve realized it’s important not to compare my career to others. Everyone’s path is different, and I have unique strengths that I need to embrace rather than trying to fit someone else’s mold.

I also believe in developing altruistic relationships. Building connections without the expectation of something in return allows for genuine support and collaboration, which can contribute to someone's success just as much as it does to my own.

What goal would you like to tackle next, either at work or home?

At work, I am focused on continuing to grow my proficiency and confidence in my current role. As this is a newly established position at the University, it carries the unique opportunity - and responsibility - to help define and shape its direction. I am motivated to thoughtfully assess the evolving needs of the campus and broader community, and to adapt the scope and impact of the role accordingly. By remaining responsive, collaborative, and strategic, I hope to contribute to building a role that is not only well-integrated into the University’s priorities but also meaningfully aligned with the needs of those it serves.

At home, I’m preparing for the birth of a foal, as our Shire mare is due at the end of April!

And, for those who have asked (wink), I will be offering outdoor yoga classes this upcoming summer!

What’s one thing on your bucket list?

I’d like to write and publish a fiction book. I have a vivid imagination when it comes to crafting elaborate bedtime stories for my kids, and I'd love to share those tales more broadly.

What is one skill you’d love to learn?

Learning when to say “no” - overcommitting is an ongoing struggle. While I do well as a “Jane of all trades," I need to continually evaluate my capacity and ensure that I can show up as my best self without being overwhelmed by responsibilities. I would like to be more cognizant of the effect my “yes” has on those I’m taking time away from.

What do you do for fun?

I lead an incredibly full life as a mother, full-time employee, yoga teacher, and horse breeder, which doesn’t leave much “free” time. What I’ve discovered over the years is that what you fill your cup with must nourish you, too. There must be a reciprocating relationship. Everything I dedicate my time to fills me with so much joy.

Is there a book, movie, or show that has made an impact on you? In what way was it impactful?

One book that has profoundly impacted me is Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Although I'm not Indigenous, I resonate with the themes of stewardship and strong connection to the land.

I also carry a poem titled Breathe by Becky Hemsley with me. It’s a constant reminder that I need to do what is right for me, and I can’t be and should not strive to be all things to all people all the time.

If you could choose a word or phrase that sums up Queen's, what would it be and why?

Community - this sense of belonging exists not only within my department but extends across campus through the Employee Resource Groups I’ve joined. These groups have allowed me to forge lasting relationships, leverage different opportunities, and be inspired by colleagues who encourage me to take on new challenges.