I located to Acton in 2001 and raised two children, now ages 19 and 23, and a stepdaughter who attended AB K-12 and is now 32, with my husband. I am newly a grandmother; my first grandson was born in October of 2025.
Originally from the midwest, I moved east to attend Boston University, earning a BA in Biology and studying Early Childhood Education at the Urban College of Boston. In addition to currently serving in my first term as a member of the Acton Select Board, I have taken on many temporary/seasonal jobs, having left the employ of the Acton Boxborough Regional School District in June 2025 where I worked as a Classroom Assistant for 4 years. I also volunteer at Danny’s Place, the Acton Boxborough Community Compass, the Orchard House, Iron Work Farm, Inc., as a board member of the Acton Woman’s Club, community events writer for the Acton Exchange, and on the leadership team of the Green Acton Water Committee.
My previous work experience includes Preschool Teacher at Mulberry Childcare Center and Soldier’s Field Park Children’s Center, Education Guide at the Boston Children’s Museum, Educator at the New England Aquarium, Discovery Center Program Manager at the Boston Museum of Science, and self-employed children’s yoga instructor.
Values I bring to my work on the Select Board
A person’s values can tell you quite a bit about who that person is. I have done a lot of work with various programs and coaches to identify my core values. Read on to get to know me better.
Curiosity and Caution
Good decision making is not a quick process. It requires:
– bringing people with diverse skills, experience, and knowledge together
– a careful assessment and analysis of the data available and consideration of the possible outcomes
– being open to learning new things and changing your mind rather than assuming you know best
I believe I can learn something from everyone with whom I am in conversation.
I do my research and use my analytic skills to look both broadly and deeply at all sides of an issue. I bring these skills to Select Board deliberations.
Communication
I am a good listener, and committed to becoming a better one. It is important to me to hear, and understand, your stories, your ideas, your concerns, your questions, and your grievances.
Connection and Community
From volunteering with community organizations to organizing events that bring people together, I share my love of meaningful connection that makes communities stronger. I am in service to the community.
Courage
Speaking the truth takes courage. Courage is needed to amplify the voices of those who have been historically excluded from the conversation or positions of power. Courage is vital to stand up and challenge false narratives. Asking questions and admitting you don’t know the answer requires courage. I bring this courage to my work on the Select Board, inviting others to the table, taking accountability for mistakes, and apologizing when appropriate.
Compassion
I care deeply about people, their quality of life, inclusivity, and equity. When someone is in need or has a problem, I offer support and work on finding solutions together.
Nicols at the polls
