Photo by Theresa Johnson Herlihy
Considering how diverse and demanding her role is, it’s hard to believe that there was ever a time at TCR without our office manager, Nicole Campbell. April 15, 2016, marked the completion of Nicole’s first year on staff, and we couldn’t be happier to celebrate all that she’s done in that time to help strengthen our organization.
“It’s so wonderful having Nicole’s wide-ranging skills on our team,” said TCR Executive Director Donna Smith Sharff. “Nicole’s areas of responsibility span everything from information management and computer technology to purchasing, billing, and human resources. She is also responsible for managing the facilities maintenance and day-to-day upkeep of our center. We needed someone experienced, well-rounded, and willing to engage such a challenge with a warm smile. We are deeply thankful to have found that person in Nicole.”
There’s no doubt Nicole’s diverse background has made her the well-rounded professional that she is. Nicole received a B.A. in sociology, with minors in psychology and English, at the University of Vermont, where she graduated in 2010. Following college, she served with AmeriCorp VISTA, as a program support specialist at the Stern Center for Language and Learning. With AmeriCorps she had the opportunity to receive monthly professional education with regard to nonprofit operations and leadership. She then worked for Work Opportunities Unlimited, as a career resource specialist, supporting clients with career planning, development, and retention. Most recently she worked as the facilities coordinator for Walnut Street Center, Inc., a nonprofit human service agency that provides comprehensive supports to adults with developmental disabilities in the Arlington, Cambridge, and Somerville area. At Walnut Street Center, Nicole managed the day-to-day operations of twelve facilities.
When asked what drew her to TCR, which represented such a change in environment, the variety and the balance of the role spoke to her. “I am most comfortable in ‘behind the scenes’ roles, but I also want to make a difference in the lives of others,” Nicole said. “I feel like I have the best of both worlds with this position at TCR.”
Ultimately, it was TCR’s mission that resonated with Nicole more than anything. “I was drawn to the idea of working for a nonprofit that supports families through grief, one of the few things that we all will have shared experience with at some point in our lives,” Nicole said. “It is one thing that we all have in common. It is only how we experience the grief that is unique to each of us.”
Now that she’s a year into her role and thriving, what’s her favorite thing about being a part of TCR? Without hesitation, she says it’s the people. “From the staff to the board, volunteers, and interns, the passion that everyone exudes for their role at this organization is simply amazing,” she said. “Never have I met a group of people that work so hard and that are so perfect for their roles. It is humbling to be a part of such a truly caring and giving team.”
When she’s not at TCR, you can find Nicole spending quality time with her friends and family, especially her teenage siblings and beloved grandmother. She also loves spending quality time with her husband Matt, whom she married in October 2015. “We love exploring New England, enjoying local festivals, and hiking,” she says. “We take frequent trips back to Vermont to visit Matt’s family and our friends, and to relax and enjoy the outdoors.”
Congratulations on a fantastic first year at TCR, Nicole! We’re so happy you’re here!
