With an illustrious career bridging the private and public sectors, Nicole brings a wealth of experience and insight to our mission. Read our Q&A to learn more about why Nicole was drawn to the Foundation’s purpose, the most important career advice she has received, and her perspectives on business’ role in society.
Q: What drew you to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and its purpose?
When I looked at the types of programming the Foundation undertakes, I got really excited. One of my goals since returning to the private sector has been to find opportunities to work at the intersection of business, government, and civil society. The U.S. Chamber Foundation’s focus on education, workforce issues, and civics aligns perfectly with my interest in bridging business, government, and civil society, which is why I was drawn to its mission.
Q: How do you plan to apply your diverse experience to further the mission and impact of the U.S. Chamber Foundation?
I have a deep understanding of how business views opportunities to strengthen communities and the best ways to leverage business resources. This understanding coupled with my experience with other nonprofit organizations and government will enable me to provide insightful advice to further the Foundation’s mission.
Q: How do you see the role of business in solving society’s toughest problems?
Business brings a unique perspective that can be incredibly useful in solving the issues on which the Foundation focuses. For instance, business can help our citizens understand the value of democracy and the rule of law, without which businesses cannot create good-paying jobs. The Foundation’s civics programming furthers this perspective.
Q: What's a memorable piece of advice you have received, and how has it influenced your leadership?
I've been really fortunate to have mentors along the way who were crucial to my growth as a leader. One key lesson I learned from my mentors over the years is to not let the fear of the unknown paralyze me and to take calculated risks in my career. By following that advice, I have been fortunate to have a deeply fulfilling career.
Q: What's one thing about you that most people would be surprised to learn?
Most people are surprised to learn that while I’m a lawyer, that was not my first career choice. I really wanted to be a broadcast journalist, specifically a TV news anchor. In my high school, we had an FM radio station, and I was a DJ there. To do that, I had to obtain an FCC operator’s license, which is a lifetime license. So today, I could be an FM radio DJ if I chose to do so!
