Nicole Meredith brings energy, creativity, and a strong sense of community to everything she does—from her role as an analyst at 3M to her work with the NextUp Mountain Region.
As part of our Voices of NextUp series, Nicole reflects on the power of authentic leadership, building community through events, and why bringing your full self to the table can be a game-changer.
Tell us a bit about yourself—your career journey, where you live, any pets you have, and anything else you’d like to share!
I’m originally from Rochester, NY, but now call Denver, CO home. Storytelling is my passion. For years, humans have used stories to foster learning and build connections, and I embody this passion both professionally and personally. As an analyst for 3M, I use data to uncover insights and craft compelling narratives. Beyond work, I bring stories to life on stage as an actor in community theatre and on the page as a published author of two books.
What originally motivated you to join the NextUp community, and what continues to inspire your involvement today?
I was introduced to NextUp by a colleague who shared her love for the community and invited me to one of the events. Immediately, I was hooked. I joined the volunteer team shortly after and have now been a volunteer for two years. The incredible community of strong, intelligent women continues to inspire my involvement. As someone who has spent almost their entire career working remotely, it’s great to work face-to-face with so many passionate and driven people!
As an integral part of the NextUp Mountain Region’s event planning team over the past two years, what has been the most rewarding part of helping bring so many events to life?
Hearing feedback from attendees and seeing their passion. I also love seeing our events come to life after months of planning, and it’s inspiring to hear from our brilliant panelists and speakers.
“Nicole has jumped headfirst into NextUp, bringing incredible energy and enthusiam. She’s made a significant impact by supporting our events, always showing up with a positive attitude and a genuine eagerness to learn and connect with others.”
– Becky Diaz
Can you share a story from your time volunteering where you felt you were making a tangible impact on NextUp’s mission of Advancing All Women?
At our largest event of the year, we had women-run businesses represented and selling their products. I loved seeing the successful and diverse businesses that local women had started and bought a few things myself! Having real businesses represented was a tangible example to me of how we are advancing all women.
What’s one key lesson you’ve learned at a NextUp event that has resonated with you over the years? How has it influenced your career?
We had an event centered on authentic leadership in the workplace, and one of our panelists emphasized the importance of building honest relationships with colleagues, managers, and stakeholders. Early in my career, I was nervous to bring my authentic self into the workplace. I had this idea of how a businesswoman should look. This panelist showed me that it’s possible to be professional and be yourself, and that the people you work with will likely appreciate you more for it.
How would you encourage other NextUp members to get involved with volunteering, and what benefits would you highlight?
Reach out to your local region team lead or attend in-person events and try to connect with them there! On NextUp’s website you can also fill out a form to show your interest in volunteering and join that way. I’ve loved volunteering with the Denver team. It has introduced me to so many incredible, motivated, like-minded people.
“As a NextUp Denver Programming Team member, Nicole Meredith has proven to be an incredible asset. She is always willing to support her teammates and the goal or project at hand. She approaches every challenge with enthusiasm and optimism. We are fortunate to have her as a volunteer and as an emerging leader on our team.”
– Jamie Santiago
What are you most excited about for the future of NextUp, especially in the Mountain Region?
The Denver chapter of the Mountain Region is fairly new, and we’ve seen so much growth in such a short period of time! I’m really excited to continue to grow our region and reach more women and women advocates in the area!
Thank you for reading! Be sure to keep an eye out for the NextUp Content Hub and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook for more membership spotlights. If you’d like to submit someone (or yourself!) for a spotlight, click here.
