Nikki Mills
Nikki Mills is a passionate professional dedicated to nurturing thriving communities through education and social-emotional learning. Currently the Missions Operations Director at Vineyard Columbus, she co-leads 15 teams in non-profit initiatives across Columbus. With a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education and Master’s in Public Administration, Nikki’s expertise spans diverse roles and includes 20+years of OST youth development work.
She brings extensive experience leading and managing teams, coupled with a knack for facilitating trainings that enhance team dynamics and effectiveness. Nikki is recognized as a trainer of trainers, with a significant background in professional development programs and services. Often called upon as a key strategist, she excels in building management processes, operations, and decision-making frameworks. Her strategic thinking and problem-solving skills contribute to her reputation as a trusted leader in her field.
A compelling speaker and active member of local (Columbus, Ohio), state-wide, and national associations, Nikki’s commitment to using data-driven approaches and building positive culture in a variety of settings is truly inspiring.
Gina Watts
Gina Watts is a dynamic leader with a profound legacy of driving impactful change. With graduate degrees in Public Administration and Social Work, she has harnessed over a decade of higher education experience at Penn State Fayette, the Eberly Campus and more than 15 years of strategic management consulting. As the Executive Director of Mission at Vineyard Columbus, she led 15 departments, nurtured community partnerships, and managed substantial grants. Gina’s prowess in relationship-building extends from local to international spheres.
Gina brings over a decade of experience with Maxwell Leadership, where she has served as both a volunteer and a contracted team member. She has developed impactful curriculum designed to empower youth, co-hosts the School on a Mission podcast with Andrew McPeak, and led national and global campaigns to equip adults with best practices for serving young people. Her work reflects a deep commitment to fostering meaningful change for youth and their communities worldwide.
Gina is an oft-called upon speaker, coach, and trainer. Her impactful career spans from instruction and career services coordination to spearheading community-focused initiatives and development programs, recognized through numerous accolades, making her an influential and widely respected force in education and community leadership.