Hillsborough College (HC) is proud to recognize Nancy Watkins as the recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award, an honor that celebrates an HC alumna whose professional achievements and leadership exemplify the values of Hillsborough College.
Nancy Watkins graduated from Hillsborough College in 1980 and has since built a prominent career in accounting and public service. She is a certified public accountant with the firm Robert Watkins & Company and an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Florida Institute of Public Accountants.
Watkins earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting from University of South Florida (USF) and has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to civic and educational leadership throughout her career. She served on the Hillsborough College District Board of Trustees from May 1999 to May 2013 and again from December 2020 to January 2026, where she was a committed advocate to the College’s students, faculty and staff. Her continued service includes her current role on the Southwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board and the USF Board of Trustees.
“I am honored to present Nancy Watkins with the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award,” Hillsborough College President Dr. Ken Atwater said. “As a proud alumna of the College, Nancy has demonstrated unwavering devotion to serving her community. Her leadership embodies the best of what our alumni represent, and we are thrilled to celebrate her accomplishments.”
Hillsborough College serves more than 46,000 students annually at its five campuses located throughout Tampa Bay. For more information, visit hcfl.edu.
Hillsborough College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. Hillsborough College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Hillsborough College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
Visit hcfl.edu/accreditation for more information.