In Memoriam: Norvell Watts
Norvell Watts
Norvell Watts joined Northwestern University in 2021 as a quarantine and isolation housing coordinator, before joining the Global Learning Office (GLO) as a Program Manager. He worked first with the Global Engagement Studies Institute (GESI) and later oversaw programs in Asia and Central Europe. He quickly became well known in national study abroad diversity circles for his leadership in centering the needs of underrepresented students in international education. Most recently, he served as Assistant Director of External Programs in the Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications, where he planned and led study abroad opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students.
Norvell’s creativity, energy, and drive brought lasting change to ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥. He often said that his priority was “increasing access and opportunities to students that have been traditionally left out of study abroad,” and he lived that mission fully. He was instrumental in creating initiatives such as Black History Month Global Week (BHM GW) and the GLO Passport Initiative. BHM GW events provide education and support to Black students interested in studying abroad, addressing common questions and offering strategies for navigating unique challenges. The GLO Passport Initiative, a need-based program that assists undergraduates with financial need in obtaining their first passport, awarded 29 passports in 2024–25 alone, and 85 passports over the program’s first four years. Of the 56 students who received passport support in the first three years, 33 (60%) went on to study abroad.
Throughout all of his work, Norvell demonstrated an unwavering commitment to broadening students’ horizons. He was passionate about serving as a bridge and a role model for Black students and others who may not always feel at home at ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥. He understood deeply that representation matters and used his gifts to open doors to new worlds and opportunities for students.
Join us to continue Norvell’s legacy of expanding access to study abroad by supporting the Passport Initiative.
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Professionally, there were no shortages of areas where Norvell could have focused his attention. He chose to commit his energy to supporting students who traditionally haven’t had access to global experiences, work that sometimes could feel like you’re spinning your wheels, but he persisted…just one example that speaks to his character and interest in betterment of others. Personally, each time I had the opportunity to interact with Norvell, I walked away feeling uplifted. His smile, his kindness…he was a gift, not only for his professional insights but, more importantly, for the type of person he was. He will be greatly missed.... ”
