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Alumni Spotlight: Nick Lawkis

Posted on April 26, 2021 by MCOB Outreach
MCOB Outreach

Nick Lawkis data-lightbox='featured'

When Nick Lawkis relocated to Alabama, in 2007, he was faced with what some consider a very important decision— War Eagle or Roll Tide? Lawkis said, “Neither. I was ‘Go Jags’ from day one. I feel that the latest generation of Jaguars are really starting to emerge in terms of name recognition and self-identity.” Originally from Naperville, Illinois, Lawkis transferred from the University of North Texas (UNT) and found his home at the University of South Alabama. Lawkis graduated from South in 2009 with an undergraduate degree in marketing and a minor in real estate. He then received a Masters of Public Administration degree in 2011. 

While attending UNT, Lawkis balanced academic responsibilities while working extensively in the banking industry. The 2008 Recession and ensuing housing crisis prompted Lawkis to return to school as a full-time student. While in pursuit of both his undergraduate and graduate degrees at South, Lawkis maximized opportunities and immersed himself on campus and in the Mobile community. During graduate school, Lawkis served as  a Graduate Assistant in Student Activities and the SGA Treasurer. 

The Mitchell College of Business community and relationships with the faculty created an exciting environment in and out of the classroom for Lawkis. “Dr. Chow will never let you go hungry (If you know him, you know what I mean). He also is phenomenal about bringing the students together. Reid Cummings taught me some of the most valuable skills as it relates to real estate finance that I still use today. Dr. Eastburn really taught me to think outside the box. He is sincerely a genius. Dr. Finney was the only person who was able to finally get me to understand quantitative analysis, simply because of his teaching style.”

Now the Executive Director of the Office of Governmental Relations for USA, Lawkis reflects on his time at South, “(South Alabama) is a place that will be the only university my kids will know to love. My wife is also a South grad with three degrees, and I hope that both our children will follow in our footsteps. Jack (2.5) already says ‘GO JAGS’ when he sees the logo! Collins (1), I am sure she will not be too far behind him... South is my home, and a huge part of my family.”

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