Nikki A. Lavoie, APR, is a nationally accredited public relations professional and spokeswoman. Her experience, together with her energy and passion, has helped drive successful communication strategies for corporate and government organizations throughout her 20-year career.
Nikki is currently chief communications officer for the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, directing a comprehensive marketing communication strategy to advance the agency’s mission. Nikki manages a team of 10 full-time professionals to execute integrated campaigns, including brand engagement, crisis communications, earned and paid media, event management, print publication, social media and video production.
Prior to joining DNREC, Nikki worked in higher education finance as the corporate communications director for Navient and Sallie Mae. She was a national spokesperson on regulatory issues and other high-profile topics, effectively sharing their stories, demonstrating commitment to customer success, and advancing thought leadership related to saving, planning and paying for college.
Previously, Nikki managed strategic communications for the Delaware Economic Development Office. Before that, she was an assistant vice president at Bank of America. Earlier in her career, she wrote for Delaware Today magazine and the Delaware State News.
In 2015, Nikki was recognized among Delaware’s “40 Under 40.” Presented by the Delaware Business Times, the award recognizes young professionals in the state who are making a difference with their intelligence, initiative and innovation. She is past president of the Public Relations Society of America, Delaware.
In 2012, Nikki successfully earned the Accredited in Public Relations (APR) credential, among the profession’s highest marks of distinction. Nikki earned her bachelor’s degree and a master’s of business administration from the University of Delaware. She lives in the city of Wilmington with her husband, Sean, and three children, Sophie, Christopher and Caden.