Nicole Doherty
What makes Nicole Wildly Capable?
Nicole has one of the highest characters of anyone I have ever met. She is a light to all she comes in contact with. She does not go a single day without making sure that those she serves know they are loved, cared for, and important. She possesses an innate ability to meet people on their level and make them feel seen, heard, and valued. CL AIRE PAINTER
What makes you feel proud?
I am really proud of the work I get to do for my career and consider myself very lucky for finding a job that combines the things I am most passionate about – higher education and volunteering/service to your community. I think the programs I get to work with and lead truly impact students’ lives and the OKC metro community. I am proud that I get to help students find a piece of their community they care deeply about and learn how to support, advocate for, and give back in ways that make a big impact. I think the programs I oversee teach the next generation how to be a caring part of their community and intentionally build a life around service to others.
What’s been the biggest obstacle in your life so far?
The biggest obstacle in my life is being a long-distance daughter from my family. It was never my intention not to move back to Texas when I graduated from college and grad school. I am an only child and my parents are my life-long best friends. I always pictured living close to them and being in the same area where I grew up.
What’s the single biggest problem you’d like to solve in your community?
If I could solve one thing in my community, it would be to change the thought that an individual person can’t make a difference in their community to the knowledge that every person can change their community through small and consistent acts. So many issues occur in society because we see a problem and do not believe our actions can help solve it. Whether it is through volunteer work, advocacy, policy-making, joining organizations, fundraising, or something else, I wish every person knew the action and effort they put toward the things that matter to them will always make a difference.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
When I was a kid, I took Tae Kwon Do and worked my way up to receive a black belt. Every class, my instructor reminded us that “a black belt is a white belt that just keeps coming to class.” This lesson of perseverance has gotten me through many stages in life. The reminder to just keep trying when something doesn’t work out the first time and to stay committed to your goal (even when things get tough or busy) has helped me become the person I am today.
