2023 O & P Woman of the Year

• Sep 2023 - Present

Nikki's journey is a testament to the profound impact of personal experience and unwavering determination. She has transitioned from overcoming challenges as an amputee to becoming a dedicated advocate and leader in osseointegration education in the O&P field. In her role as the Director of N.A Ops for Osseointegration International, Nikki offers support to amputees worldwide. Her intimate familiarity with the physical and emotional complexities of limb loss allows her to connect deeply with patients. Nikki's commitment goes further with her establishment of Central Illinois Amputees. By recognizing and addressing the specific challenges faced by amputees in rural areas, she has proactively bridged gaps in access to care. Through her nonprofit, Nikki not only improves the lives of individual amputees but also raises awareness about the distinctive needs of these communities. Her adeptness at advocacy, both nationally and locally, underscores her genuine empathy, thoughtful approach, and dedication to meaningful change. Nikki's personal experience has undoubtedly shaped her viewpoint, granting her a unique voice in championing emerging technology, prosthetics, patient care, and access to services. She is a staunch advocate for ensuring that the O&P profession receives the essential support and resources needed to provide exemplary patient care in a sustainable manner. Nikki's journey is a source of inspiration, highlighting the profound impact that a committed individual can make on countless lives. In a field where innovation and understanding are crucial, her story stands as a shining illustration of how personal experience can drive progress, shape policies, and uplift communities. Her ongoing contributions are actively reshaping the landscape of O&P and osseointegration, leaving behind a lasting legacy of empowerment and support for both the O&P profession and the limb loss community. Show less

Director of North American Operations

• Aug 2019 - Present

Fellow

• May 2020 - Present

Chosen in 2020 to complete a 10-week health policy & advocacy fellowship in Washington, D.C. to learn orthotic and prosthetic policy, advocacy, and how NAAOP and other O&P organizations function on behalf of O&P and within the broader rehabilitation/disability policy and advocacy community at both the federal and state levels. *Fellowship postponed to 2021 due to COVID 19) Chosen in 2020 to complete a 10-week health policy & advocacy fellowship in Washington, D.C. to learn orthotic and prosthetic policy, advocacy, and how NAAOP and other O&P organizations function on behalf of O&P and within the broader rehabilitation/disability policy and advocacy community at both the federal and state levels. *Fellowship postponed to 2021 due to COVID 19)

Founding Director

• Sep 2017 - Present

Central Illinois Amputees was founded in 2017 to address amputee access to care obstacles in rural communities. We provide support, information, education and advocacy for amputees and their families as they adjust to life after limb loss. Central Illinois Amputees was founded in 2017 to address amputee access to care obstacles in rural communities. We provide support, information, education and advocacy for amputees and their families as they adjust to life after limb loss.

Emergency Room Administration, Risk Management and Compliance

• 2006 - 2009

Paramedic

• 1994 - 2008

Event Coordinator

• 2001 - 2005

Paramedic

• 1990 - 1995