Walter Novillo

Walter Estuardo Novillo, born August 31,1964, passed away on
September 19, 2026, at the young age of 62, surrounded by the
love of his family. Walter, a forever student, excelled in his studies from childhood
through adulthood. He earned a B.A. from the University of Minnesota in political science and international relations; an M.B.A. and M.I.M. from the Opus College of Business, University of Saint Thomas, in finance, and international management; an
M.A. from Hubert H. Humphrey School of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota, in policy analysis and economic development; a J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law; and Ph.D.’s from the University of Minnesota. Beyond his own pursuits for knowledge, Walter advanced access to education through his leadership in many ways. In 2006, Walter was one of the founders of the Power of You Fund at Minneapolis College; in 2009, Walter founded STEP Academy Charter School;
and, more recently, in 2023 he supported the creation of the Northstar Promise Scholarship Program for Minnesota state schools. Walter was a mentor and nurturing professor. As a lecturer at the University of Minnesota, he deeply cared about his students’ social, academic, and emotional development. Walter consistently researched the latest teachings in order to provide the most
current lectures, was honored to write letters of recommendation, and worked diligently to ensure that all his students got access to quality education and services. Through research and advocacy, Walter spent decades working to improve the health and well-being of communities. For 14 years, Walter was a Community Researcher and served as an Executive Committee member of the SoLaHmo Partnership for Health and Wellness. He shaped community-centered research
initiatives and led projects to advance health equity. As a proud military veteran, he advocated for better access to mental health support for veterans, including his service on the board of the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV). Walter’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He dedicated his life to his wife and especially his children and loved any opportunity to connect with them; he was always just a text or a phone call away. Walter’s pleasures were simple; he enjoyed
travel (but not the planning phase!), antiquing, bargain shopping, gardening, and watching TV and movies with his family. Walter was preceded in death by his parents, Francisco and Teresa. He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy; cherished children, Hannah, Mara, and Sam; incredible siblings, Maria Isabel (Luis), Leonardo (Rosa), Manuel (Tania), and Alberto (Sonia); step-daughters Michelle (Josh) Kass and Danielle (Jordan) Kravitz; grandchildren Myles Kass and Jillian Kass; brother-in-law Barry (Beth) Karon, sister-in-law Sara Karon; and many adoring nieces and nephews. He will be forever missed. Private family services will be held. SHIVA 7pm Wednesday, September 23rd at TEMPLE OF AARON SYNAGOGUE, 616 S. Mississippi River Blvd., St. Paul. Donations preferred to the U of M fund linked here: https://makingagift.umn.edu/give/yourgift.html?&cart=3008 or to the donor's favorite charity in Walter's honor.