Biography

Nicola earned a bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley, graduating with several prizes in music, including the Hertz Memorial traveling fellowship to pursue graduate studies in violin performance.

For fifteen years, Nicola performed in professional orchestras, served as orchestral music librarian and taught violin in schools. In 2016, she rejoined UC as an administrative assistant in Institutional Advancement (UC Office of the President). Not only did Nicola’s background align her with UC’s mission, but as a single mom with two young children, she thrived in the stability of UC’s family-friendly community.

Nicola is now a development analyst in the same unit, providing gift policy guidance to campuses and analyzing systemwide fundraising. Nicola is currently serving on OPSA for the third year, previously as secretary and chair of the Education/Career committee. Nicola also serves as Vice President of Public Relations for Toastmasters (Oakland chapter) and is a member of the UCOP Mentorship Program Advisory Committee. She strongly believes in strengthening community through staff engagement and development.