Nikki Walker
Lavergne
Summary
Accomplished executive leader with a proven track record in educational equity, nonprofit growth, and transformative learning. Expertise in strategic planning, program innovation, financial oversight, and stakeholder engagement to drive impact and measurable outcomes. Adept at optimizing operations, building high-performing teams, and fostering collaboration for sustained mission-driven success.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Executive Director
East Nashville Hope Exchange
08.2022 - Current
- Spearheaded the development and execution of organization strategic plan, aligning objectives with the organization’s mission and long-term vision, resulting in a 30% increase in program reach and engagement
- Directed daily operations, encompassing program management, financial oversight, and talent acquisition, optimizing budget allocation and enhancing overall efficiency by 20%
- Designed and implemented data-driven literacy programs tailored to diverse student needs, resulting in an 80% improvement in literacy outcomes and driving measurable student achievement
- Establish key partnerships with donors, corporate sponsors, and community leaders to secure funding and expand program reach
- Develop and implement data-driven evaluation strategies to measure program success and drive continuous improvement
Contractor
National Museum of African American Music
08.2022 - 12.2022
- Developed and implemented STEAM-based educational initiatives for MNPS students, fostering equitable access to cultural enrichment and academic growth
- Designed and coordinated field trips and interactive learning experiences, aligning programming with curriculum standards and student development goals
- Cultivated and managed partnerships with schools and community organizations, ensuring seamless program execution and resource allocation
- Oversaw teaching artist contracts, financial reporting, and invoicing, optimizing budget management and operational efficiency
- Led training and onboarding for education coordinators, enhancing program delivery and ensuring adherence to best practices in museum education
Education & Program Manager
National Museum of African American Music
06.2021 - 08.2022
- Designed and launched a structured field trip program, serving over 1,000 students within a six-month span and providing immersive, curriculum-aligned learning experiences
- Partnered with the Education Director to develop and execute comprehensive educational programs, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and industry best practices
- Created and managed an internship program for HBCU students, fostering professional development opportunities in museum education and cultural programming
- Partnered with local schools and universities to expand access to cultural learning experiences, enhancing student engagement and educational enrichment
- Oversaw relationships with teaching artists and contracted professionals, ensuring high-quality program delivery and impactful learning experiences
- Conducted qualitative and quantitative data analysis for grant reporting and program evaluation, measuring impact and informing strategic improvements
Recruitment Coordinator
Philips Global Business Services
01.2019 - 06.2021
- Delivered high-level administrative and operational support to the talent acquisition team, enhancing recruitment efficiency and effectiveness
- Managed the coordination and scheduling of 100+ interviews per month, optimizing logistical workflows and improving the candidate experience
- Acted as a strategic liaison between hiring managers, recruiters, and candidates, ensuring clear communication and a seamless recruitment process
- Maintained applicant tracking systems and recruitment databases to support data-driven decision-making and compliance with hiring protocols
- Assisted in streamlining onboarding processes, improving time-to-hire metrics and overall candidate engagement
Education
Master of Education - Organizational Leadership & Communication
Belmont University
Nashville, TN01.2019
Bachelor of Communication -
Tennessee State University
Nashville, TN01.2011
Skills
- Strategic Leadership
- Program Development
- Operational Excellence
- Curriculum & Design
- Performance Evaluation
- Grant Writing
- Project Management
- Relationship Building
- Leadership & Team Development
- Community engagement
Accomplishments
- Successfully expanded literacy programs, reaching 30% more students in the East Nashville & surrounding areas, providing tailored support to students who are reading below grade level or need extra assistance to maintain their skills.
- Secured nearly $250,000 in grant funding over the past two years from leading education funders to drive literacy initiatives, expanding access and impact for underserved communities.
- Increased community involvement through partnerships with local businesses, schools, and community organizations, leading to a 20% increase in volunteer engagement and donations.
Certification
Certificate: Diversity, Education, Inclusion, University of South Florida College of Business, 2021
Timeline
Executive Director
East Nashville Hope Exchange
08.2022 - Current
Contractor
National Museum of African American Music
08.2022 - 12.2022
Education & Program Manager
National Museum of African American Music
06.2021 - 08.2022
Recruitment Coordinator
Philips Global Business Services
01.2019 - 06.2021
Bachelor of Communication -
Tennessee State University
Master of Education - Organizational Leadership & Communication
Belmont University
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