As a younger student, Nikki Hastings said she always
enjoyed math and science but couldn’t quite connect the dots on how her
love for those subjects might translate into a career.
That changed after attending a month-long summer camp that showed students hands-on what they could do with their skills.
“It just takes that one experience to get someone
fired up to make them understand,” Hastings said. For today’s students
and parents, “I would encourage parents to have their students
experience a lot of different things.”
Hastings has led the development of programs to introduce local students to science, technology, engineering and math careers.
For her ongoing efforts, the Charlottesville
Business Innovation Council recently honored her with the Community
Award. The award recognizes a firm or individual who demonstrates a
commitment to improving the quality of life in Central Virginia through
community involvement.
Rimm-Kauffman Group and The Gaines Group also were nominated for the award.
Today, Hastings is vice president of laboratory
operations at HemoShear, a local biotech firm that develops technology
that’s been adopted by major pharmaceutical companies to help them
improve the safety and effectiveness of medicines.
Hastings is also chairwoman of VABio’s
Charlottesville Regional Council. She also has led efforts to develop
local programs to expose students to career possibilities in science,
math, engineering and technology. Hastings also serves on the advisory
committee for the newly created health and medical sciences academy at
Monticello High School, according to a biography provided by the CBIC.
“She’s one of those rare people who has both the
energy and the enthusiasm and the devotion to actually make a difference
in some kids,” said Gary Henry, chairman of the CBIC board. Henry said
the role that people like Hastings play in attracting and retaining
student interest in scientific and technical careers shouldn’t be
underestimated.
“Nikki’s an inspiration to all of us,” Tracey
Danner, the CBIC’s interim executive director, said by email. “Her
passion and commitment to help grow and strengthen the base of
technology opportunities in the Charlottesville area — for both today’s
and tomorrow’s workforce — is making a real difference.”
“She’s in what I consider to be one of our most
important societal endeavors,” Henry added. “Providing some feedback to
[children] that says, a [science, technology, engineering or math]
career is hugely positive and something that’s valuable ... to
everyone.”
A native of upstate New York, Hastings came to Charlottesville in 2004 to pursue her doctorate at the University of Virginia.
When she’s not working or promoting the
possibilities of science to students, Hastings has played a key role in
supporting the local MS Society’s annual Bike MS event.
“I do tend to take on a lot, but when I see what
I’ve done in the community it’s really energizing to me in other parts
of my life at work,” Hastings said. “I’m always looking for something to
be active in,” she said. “There are so many great things going on
here.”
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