Niki has a background in human resources and organizational development, focused on leadership and professional development, with 8+ years of experience in the nonprofit field. She is passionate about increasing employee engagement and reducing turnover and burnout in the nonprofit sector. Most recently, she was the Vice President, Human Resources & Organizational Development at Valley of the Sun United Way, one of Phoenix’s largest and most innovative nonprofits. Niki holds a Master's degree in Organizational Development and Leadership (MA-ODL) from Fielding Graduate University and is certified in Evidence-Based Coaching. She is ACC-certified through the International Coaching Federation (ICF).

Aside from Desert Blue, Niki works to build meaningful community partnerships with organizations that serve underrepresented and underserved communities. She serves on the Board of Directors for Girl Scouts Arizona-Cactus Pine Council and on the Advisory Board for the Grand Canyon University Honors College. She is an active member of the BIPOC Coach Collective. She is also an adjunct professor with University of Dubuque LIFE Tempe, which focuses on helping working adults complete their post-secondary degrees.

 Community is one of her personal and company core values and where she feels she can make the most impact.