According to fellow students, faculty and friends, Watkins was invested in mentorship and advocacy for students from underrepresented groups. He was dedicated to promoting an inclusive graduate community by leading the way and being a representative voice for those who historically do not have one in STEM.
Nic joined the board of NU Building on Diversity, where he helped organize a speaker series to bring chemistry faculty from other institutions to Northwestern’s campus to share their science and advocacy work. A passionate and dedicated advocate, Nic also founded GoSTEM, the Northwestern graduate chapter of Out in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, where he served as president for three years. His vision was to build a network for LGBTQ+ graduate students to pursue professional development and mentoring opportunities, his friends said.
Nic’s family are continuing his legacy by creating this Memorial Scholarship Fund that will support students who share his dedication and enthusiasm. Every donation brings us one step closer to ensuring his memory shines on through the success of others.