Nikola P.

About Nikola P.

My background is in catalyzing and managing strategies and programs rooted in impact-driven partnerships, peer learning, equity, and community engagement practices that measurably improve localized social determinants of health. Over the last nine years, I\'ve collaborated closely with city staff and external partners, championing amplified participation of community members in resource allocation and decision-making, all the while uplifting the voices, ideas, and actions of every community member. I’m especially committed to centering the lived experiences of community members who have endured compounded challenges and historical underrepresentation.As a former refugee from Yugoslavia (Bosnia and Herzegovina), I bring a perspective on the critical role anchor organizations, leadership, social cohesion, and individual actions have in shaping our overall well-being. Growing up in the U.S. I\'ve learned that we are just starting to build systems that honor the intersections of agency, identity, and plurality. With that said, my lifelong commitment is to contribute to the elimination of identity-based disparities across social determinants of health in NYC through strategies that are deeply rooted in intersectional racial equity, strong partnerships, cross-functional teams, community, and continuous improvement.To gain a deeper understanding of my approach to program strategy, design, and management, please visit my portfolio website at

Experience

1. Program Manager

   Manhattan District Attorney\'s Office

   Feb 2024 — Present · New York, NY, US

   I have the opportunity to leverage best practices in data-informed, partnership-driven, community-centered, and continuous improvement oriented programming to enhance the effectiveness of our office\'s diversion and alternatives to incarceration programs. Working with talented colleagues, I am entrusted with the following responsibilities- Leading the development and oversight of programs dedicated to diversion and alternatives to incarceration- Ensuring comprehensive oversight and monitoring of various programs, projects, and initiatives- Effectively managing consultants, community-based organizations, and service providers to ensure the success of our programs- Providing strategic guidance to leadership on potential initiatives and investments- Offering dedicated support to partners to optimize the success of our programs- Establishing program performance metrics and implementing data collection strategies to conduct thorough program assessments- Facilitating strategic collaboration across units and with various departments within the City of New York.

Education

• Columbia School of Social Work

  Master of Social Work - MSW, Clinical/Medical Social Work

• University of Iowa

  B.A., Mass Communications, Minor Philosophy

  2004 — 2008

• Drake University

  M.S., Adult Learning and Organizational Performance

  2010 — 2012

Skills

• Systems Thinking
• Program Management
• Research
• Organizational Effectiveness
• Nonprofit Organizations
• Program Evaluation
• Strategic Consulting
• Organizational Development
• Event Planning
• Training
• Community Outreach
• Community Development
• Strategic Communications
• Government
• Nonprofits
• Staff Development
• Facilitation
• Process Improvement
• Strategy
• Coaching
• Social Media Marketing
• Workshop Facilitation
• Leadership
• Strategic Planning
• Leadership Development
• Public Speaking
• Fundraising
• Community Engagement
• Management
• Program Development
• Project Management
• Personal Development