LaRoyce Hawkins, best known for his role as Officer Kevin Atwater on NBC’s Chicago P.D., is set to headline the 2025 Actor Empowerment Summit (AES) in Chicago.
AES is designed to empower performers through workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. Its focus is on hands-on learning, mentorship, and building a supportive community where actors can develop both their skills and their confidence.
The two-day event, September 6–7 at CineCity Studios, offers actors at all levels the chance to sharpen their craft, connect with peers, and learn directly from experienced professionals.
“Lifting As We Climb isn’t a masters class… it’s a class for masters willing to grow,” says Hawkins. “Imagine an approach to storytelling that focused more on experience than expertise. AES is family and I’m grateful to be a small part of the big picture. We plant seeds at The Summit that grow exponentially and I’m very excited to nourish the nuances we gather this year.”
- Dates: September 6–7, 2025
- Location: CineCity Studios, 2429 W 14th Street, Chicago, IL 60608
- Registration: Eventbrite link
- Contact: Michael A. Dean, actorempowermentsummit@gmail.com
Have a look at the schedule for a weekend full of speakers, workshops, networking, and inspiration
Hawkins’ journey from Harvey, Illinois, to Hollywood was shaped by dedication, family, and a love for storytelling. He discovered his passion for performance in high school, excelling on the speech team, and later honed his craft at Illinois State University while commuting to auditions in Chicago. His hard work paid off with a recurring role on Chicago Fire, which evolved into a main character on Chicago P.D., marking him as the first Chicago actor cast in the series.
But success for Hawkins has never been just about his own career. He has built a reputation for mentorship and giving back, especially to the youth in his community. Through his ‘Be Powerful’ campaign, he inspires young people to embrace their gifts and make an impact.
Attendees at AES can expect workshops, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities designed to nurture talent and foster meaningful connections. With Hawkins leading the way, the summit promises an experience that combines skill-building, inspiration, and community impact, reflecting both his journey and his values.
LaRoyce can be seen on Chicago P.D. Season 13 premiering October 1 on NBC.
LaRoyce Hawkins interview last year:
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