Nikki Peterson serves as the Director of Marketing and Communications at the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada. With over 15 years of experience in marketing campaigns, intentional storytelling, design, and nonprofit expertise, Nikki brings a wealth of knowledge to her role.

Prior to joining the Community Foundation, Nikki was the Executive Director of the Nevada North Interscholastic Cycling Association, a youth development nonprofit organization serving nearly 600 youth in Northern Nevada and the Eastern Sierras, supported by over 275 volunteer coaches. This program introduces young people to the sport of mountain biking, fostering lifelong cyclists and promoting healthy habits and character-building opportunities. Before her tenure with the Nevada North League, Nikki pursued a career in education, working towards becoming an elementary teacher. Additionally, she co-owned two coffee shops in Lander, WY and Riverton, WY, both of which were recognized among the top 10 coffee shops in the country.

Nikki competed in cross country and track at Indiana University and the University of Wyoming, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Food and Nutrition. She also holds a master’s degree in education from Alliant University. Her passion for mountain biking led her to a professional career in the sport for six years, during which she founded one of the only all-women’s mountain bike teams and also discovered NICA.

Nikki remains actively involved with NICA as the race director for the league, dedicated to teaching children the joys of nature through mountain biking and the valuable life lessons that come from overcoming challenges. Nikki resides in Reno, NV with her partner Adam, and his children, Cyla and Aurora, and their two dogs and five cats where they enjoy traveling, camping, riding bikes, cooking, and spending time together as a family.