Meet Nolan Robinson
Nolan Robinson grew up in Evanston, attending Willard Elementary, Haven Middle School, ETHS and now Northwestern University. As a lifelong Evanstonian, he has used his ability to connect with others to create meaningful art and positive messaging throughout the community.
“I believe it’s important to bring a sense of hope and light to others. I always try to do what I can to help those around me, no matter how small it may be,” said Nolan.
As a high school student, Nolan was involved in the ETHS community in many ways, including his role as Mr. Wake Up Wildkits, in which he performed the morning greetings and announcements. He also served as an ETHS Ambassador, was a member of the Student Booster Board, and performed in numerous stage productions and with the YAMO dance group.
After being named as an Evanston Scholar, he was able to secure the resources needed to attend Northwestern University, where he is currently pursuing a degree in Theatre with a minor in Political Science.
Nolan’s involvement and achievements have continued throughout his college years. As a freshman, he was named as the 2017 NAACP Award recipient. He is also a part of the Northwestern News Network and Northwestern Waa-Mu Show, has written for the Daily Northwestern, and was named the Most Outstanding First Year Student within the School of Communication, in which he is member of the Dean’s Advisory Council and DEI Task Force. He also produces a podcast, “Of All Trades,'' where he interviews people of different trades, including some prominent Evanstonians.
One of Nolan’s most prized achievements took place this past year when he wrote and produced a short musical, “Grief Night Club,” which follows a young man who is dealing with questions surrounding his mortality. This production had a voiceover by renowned actress Jennifer Grey and was a huge NU community effort.
Outside of school, Nolan served as the keynote speaker at the City’s 2018 MLK Jr. Day celebration, and he moderated a panel for the City’s 2020 MLK Jr. Day celebration.
“I believe community isn’t a static thing, it can choose to live. As soon as it is built and created it lives forever. As soon as you’re ingrained in a community, they will always be there,” said Nolan.
