Executive Director / Age 39
LEAVEN, Inc.
Looking back, Nikki Gerhard says her professional journey was deeply shaped by the experiences she had working in municipal government, particularly in collaborative efforts with local nonprofit organizations.
“I gained invaluable insight into how community-driven efforts and local government can align to create meaningful impact,” she says.
Gerhard, who has held her role at LEAVEN for two years, says supporting people with “the tools, resources and support they need can spark tremendous change — not just for individuals, but for entire neighborhoods.”
One of her most significant career challenges happened in a previous role in municipal government, when she was mainly working with local nonprofits supporting continuum of care efforts. Gerhard was led to believe her work “wasn’t appropriate or valuable, and that I shouldn’t be proud of my accomplishments.” Ultimately, she overcame this challenge by reconnecting with her core values, leaning on her support network and trusting in her capacity to create change.
Be sure to visit Insight’s Portraits of Success: 40 Under 40 at The Art Garage in Green Bay from May 30–June 1 to see each honoree’s official 40 Under 40 portrait!
