Nicki Anderson

AAUW Naperville Area is pleased to name Nicki Anderson as our 2023 Woman of the Year for advancing equity by serving as a strong organizational and community leader and establishing programs to provide opportunities for women and people of diverse backgrounds. She was honored at the AAUW Naperville Area Spring Awards Brunch at White Eagle Golf Club on Saturday, May 13.

Nicki Anderson is the Director of Benedictine University’s L.E.A.D.S. (Leadership, Empowerment, Action, Development and Service) initiative for undergraduate women, a program she developed in 2020. In 2022, in addition to overseeing the L.E.A.D.S. program, Nicki was appointed Executive Director of University Development. 

Prior to her work at Benedictine, Nicki served as the CEO and President of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce. She was the first woman in that role in the Chamber’s 112-year history. As CEO Nicki was instrumental in leading a successful capital campaign that resulted in much needed technology upgrades for the organization. She also created a more diverse board of directors and updated the organization’s brand. 

From 1993-2012 Nicki owned and operated her own health and wellness business. She traveled all over the world presenting workshops on leadership, culture, customer care and marketing. She was a columnist for the Chicago Tribune and Daily Herald from 1998-2013 and has authored four books. 

Nicki currently serves on the Loaves and Fishes board of directors and volunteers at The Alive Center. She was appointed to the Naperville City Council in November 2022. 

Nicki has been honored by Bridge Communities with the “Changing Lives” Award. She also received the Education Center’s “Making a Difference” Award, and 360 Youth Services, “Changing Lives and Inspiring Hope” Award.

Nicki lives in Naperville with her husband, Bill. They have four grown children and two grandchildren.