State Appointment Extends Reach of Grad’s Service and Impact

Published October 28, 2025 | Request Information

For Joshua Watkins, 34, of West Lafayette, Indiana, pursuing his Master of Arts in Nonprofit Management at Johns Hopkins University Advanced Academic Programs has been nothing short of transformative.

Now, his commitment to service and leadership has been recognized at the state level with his recent appointment by Maryland Governor Wes Moore to the Maryland Humanities Council.

“For me, this is not about a title — it’s about trust, responsibility, and the chance to serve Maryland in a way that honors my values of service, equity, and storytelling,” said Watkins, who’s expected to graduate in 2026. “Leadership is never about recognition, but about service.”

In addition to his appointment, Watkins serves as Chair of Health and Wellness for the Northern Anne Arundel Chamber of Commerce, where he helps connect people and resources to strengthen families and communities. He credits his father for instilling in him the values of compassion, humility, and commitment to community—principles that continue to guide his path.

Watkins said the Nonprofit Management program at Advanced Academic Programs has given him the confidence and clarity to take on greater responsibilities.

“The program has sharpened my skills and expanded my ability to lead with both strategy and heart,” he said. “Courses in governance, equity, and sustainability have prepared me for real-world challenges, and I see those lessons reflected daily in my leadership roles.”

His appointment by Governor Moore, he said, is a direct reflection of how Hopkins has prepared him for impact-driven leadership.

“The program has not only shaped my leadership but also given me the confidence to step into new opportunities with clarity and purpose,” Watkins said.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Watkins said being a Hopkins student carries deep personal meaning.

“I wanted my son to see his father finish what he started,” he said. “This degree is more than a credential — it represents resilience, growth, and the belief that education can transform families and communities.”

Watkins shares his journey with his wife, Laura, and their son, Gabriel, who inspire him to keep striving toward his goals. “My greatest dream is to set an example for him—to show that through perseverance and faith, anything is possible—and to one day see him walk these same grounds as a student at Johns Hopkins,” he said.

“Being a student at Johns Hopkins University has truly been a dream come true and a life-changing experience,” Watkins added. “Each opportunity has deepened my commitment to community service, leadership, and lifelong learning.”