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What can one individual accomplish within a community? In fewer than eight years in Utah, Dr. Yolanda “Nikki” Walker left a profound and lasting mark, achieving a level of influence and impact that many strive for over a lifetime.
On July 1, 2025, business leaders, community members, family and friends gathered at the Traeger Grills headquarters in Salt Lake City to honor Walker’s extraordinary life. The ceremony, with attendees dressed in white and gold, was a tribute to her vibrant spirit and connection to community. Walker passed away from an asthma attack on June 23. She was 48 years old.
“Nikki was a force,” said James Jackson III, founder of the Utah Black Chamber. “She was a mother, a friend, a mentor, a movement. Her legacy is boldly in this room and this city.”
With over 20 years in public relations and communications, Walker began her career on the East Coast, rising from associate to VP. She launched and ran her own PR firm for a decade in New Jersey and served as PR director for a national ethnic hair care brand before being recruited in 2017 by a Utah-based wellness company.
Relocating to Lehi, Walker brought her drive and talent to a new community. In her first Utah role, she helped expand the company’s global presence. She then went on to join Domo as director of community engagement — and later, director of DEI — where she built bridges between the company and the broader Utah community.
In her final year, Walker focused on building her own brand, NWPR & Consulting, a bridge to culturally competent communications, inclusive leadership development and traditional public relations.
Walker’s influence in Utah extended beyond business. She held board positions with several nonprofits, including Utah Foster Care, The Road Home, The Children’s Center Utah and the Utah Black Chamber. In 2023, she ran for the Utah State Senate, an effort of civic engagement and social progress.
She earned so many accolades, her preacher teased he grew tired of congratulating her: Utah Business’s 30 Women to Watch, W Collective’s 40 Over 40, the 2021 Women Tech Change Catalyst Award, a 2022 Stevie Award, and just weeks before her passing, a 2025 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and honorary doctorate from Empire University.
While her resume was impressive, what stood out most at Walker’s memorial were personal stories and testimonials of her character. Speaker after speaker emphasized her boldness, care and unwavering support for others.
“She was always looking for an opportunity to elevate other people,” said Latonya Howell, an HR executive and mentee.
“In the midst of all her busyness, she made it a point to be a sister,” added another Walker mentee, Karen Roriquez-Lapaz.
“No one could tell Nikki no,” said tech entrepreneur Sunny Washington.
“She had the rare gift of making people feel seen, heard and valued,” NBA Utah Jazz Chaplain Corey J. Hodges said at her funeral.
Walker’s legacy will continue in Utah’s business, nonprofit and political spheres. Two tributes were announced during her memorial: a wellness room named in her honor at The Children’s Center Utah, and formal recognition from the State of Utah for her generational impact.
“She reminded us that authenticity is a form of leadership,” said Ashley Cleveland. “Nikki’s transition leaves an unfillable space. Her movement continues through us.”