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Paloma Nikolic
Program Manager - VIBE Accelerator, Belonging & Diversity Team at Workday
Professional Background
Paloma Nikolic is a distinguished program manager and project leader with a deep commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion within the workplace. Currently, she holds the position of Program Manager within the Belonging & Diversity Team at Workday, where she plays a pivotal role in fostering an inclusive environment for all employees. Her extensive experience positions her at the intersection of program management and social impact, making her a valuable asset to any organization focused on promoting equity and diversity in their operations.
Before her current role at Workday, Paloma served as a Program Manager in the Office of the COO, also at Workday. Her skills in project management and her dedication to organizational excellence allowed her to contribute significantly to various initiatives that streamlined operations and enhanced overall corporate effectiveness.
Paloma's journey includes notable positions at IDEO, a world-renowned design firm known for its human-centered approach. Initially, she worked as a Business Development lead for the Design for Learning initiative at The Teachers Guild, and later transitioned to a Project Manager role. In these positions, she collaborated closely with educational institutions and non-profits to transform and innovate teaching methodologies, ensuring that learning environments are effective and inclusive.
Before her tenure at IDEO, Paloma served as the Secretary of the Board of Directors and Project Manager for the Global Voices Film Festival at the U.S. National Committee for UN Women - San Francisco Chapter. Her involvement in this role showcased her commitment to women's empowerment and social justice, leading discussions and initiatives that highlighted vital global issues.
Her foundation in legal and administrative support comes from her role as a Legal Administrative Assistant at Altshuler Berzon LLP, where she honed her organizational and legal research skills. Paloma also has an enriching background in education, having served as a Teaching Assistant and Student Advisor at Mount Holyoke College, where she provided support and guidance to incoming students and contributed to a vibrant academic community.
Education and Achievements
Paloma Nikolic holds a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in International Relations and Geology from Mount Holyoke College, where she graduated Cum Laude. Her educational achievements reflect her diverse interests and her strong academic foundation in critical thinking and analytical skills.
To further her expertise, Paloma participated in an enriching study abroad program at Université Paul Valéry (Montpellier III), focusing on International Law and Geography. This international experience equipped her with a global perspective that she brings to her roles, making her adept at navigating complex global issues through a local lens.
Additionally, Paloma completed specialized training at the National Equity Project, studying Designing and Facilitating Meetings for Equity Training. This training highlights her dedication to equitable practices in all professional spheres, reinforcing her ability to lead discussions that engage diverse participants and foster understanding and collaboration.
Achievements
Paloma Nikolic is not only an excellent program and project manager but also a forward-thinking innovator who seeks to drive positive change. Her engagement as a volunteer intern at the Council on Foreign Relations provided her with invaluable insights into global policy issues and deepened her understanding of international relations. As a Museum Guide at the picturesque Chateau de Chantilly, she was able to blend her passion for education with her love for history and culture, further enhancing her communication skills.
Paloma's leadership roles in various organizations underscore her commitment to building community and fostering inclusion. Whether advocating for marginalized voices through the Global Voices Film Festival or designing impactful learning experiences at IDEO, her contributions have left a lasting impact.
Paloma's multifaceted background and her passion for equity and diversity make her a standout professional in her field. Her educational achievements, comprehensive experience, and unwavering commitment to social justice not only reflect her personal values but also exemplify her drive to effect meaningful change in every role she undertakes.
