We come together today to remember and celebrate the life of Dr. Nicholas "Nick" Zhidong Lu, a remarkable individual who left an indelible mark on the world through his dedication to science, his selfless nature, and his love for life. Born on November 28, 1969, in Xi'an, China, Dr. Lu sadly passed away on April 5, 2025, in Lake Forest, Illinois, after a courageous battle with leukemia.

Nick's journey was one of extraordinary accomplishment and determination. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Northwest University in Xi'an, China, in 1991, he continued his pursuit of knowledge in the United States. He received a Master of Science in Endocrinology from Portland State University in 1997 and went on to complete a Ph.D. in Physiology and Pharmacology at Oregon Health Science University in Portland, Oregon, in 2002.

His passion for scientific research and commitment to public health led him to a storied career marked by significant achievements and recognitions. Dr. Lu's work earned him numerous accolades, including the FDA Commissioner's Special Citation in 2021, the ORA Outstanding Service Award in 2024, and a posthumous nomination for FDA Inspector of the Year in 2025. His colleagues at the FDA and those who worked alongside him at the MDRHC Group, where he received Group Incentive Awards in 2023, will remember him as a dedicated professional who always went above and beyond.

Dr. Lu's influence extended into academia, where he served on the Northwestern University Facility Advisory Board from 2013 to 2017. His research excellence was recognized with the Allan Murck Award from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth in 2013, the IDEA award from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in 2007, and the prestigious Endocrine Scholar title from the Endocrine Society in 2006. His paper was named the National Institute of Health Paper of the Year in 2005, a testament to his profound contributions to medical science.

Outside of his professional life, Nick was a man of many interests. He had a passion for travel, a love for the camaraderie and competition found in playing rugby and hockey, and he found solace and joy in creating music on the keyboard at his home. His spirit and energy were infectious, and he brought joy to those around him with his thoughtful and kind presence.

Dr. Lu's legacy is carried on by his beloved family. He is survived by his spouse, Robert Bohlin; his mother, Fenglan Jiang; his sister, Xiaoxia Lyu; his sister, Xiurong Lyu;his brother, Zhiqiang Lyu; his brother-in-law, David Bohlin; and his sisters-in-law, Linda and Donna Bohlin. They, along with his friends and colleagues, will continue to be inspired by the memories of his selfless acts, his thoughtful guidance, and his unwavering kindness.

As we bid farewell to Dr. Nicholas Zhidong Lu, we reflect on a life lived to its fullest, marked by an unyielding commitment to improving the lives of others. His impact on the field of medical research and the countless lives he touched will not be forgotten. Today, we honor a man who was not only an accomplished scientist but also a beacon of generosity and compassion. Dr. Lu's story is one of triumph, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come.