Since graduating with a BS in Biology from the York University (UK) and an MS in Ecology from University College of North Wales (UK), Nicola has specialized in the field of mountain environments. First working for the Nature Conservancy Council identifying sites of Special Scientific Interest then conducting arctic and alpine plant research at the British Government's Institute of Terrestrial Ecology in Bangor. Nicola was then solicited to work in the US propagating rare and unusual alpine plants for a specialized nursery company. Nicola then owned and operated her own business as an Environmental Consultant conducting federal rare plant surveys, environmental impact reports and wetlands analysis.

Nicola became Director of Horticulture and Research at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens in 1998. With her strong concern for plant conservation she has rallied the cause for the role of small botanic gardens in the world of global plant biodiversity, her interests taking her to mountain ranges worldwide. With numerous presentations around the country for APGA, BGCI, the Applied Plant Conservation Training Program and NARGS (North American Rock Garden Society) she has demonstrated that by strategic planning and focus, small botanic gardens can make valuable contributions to expanding the public's understanding of plants.

Within APGA, Nicola represents small US botanic gardens who play an important role for their communities while facing organizational challenges. Nicola feels that by elevating the profile of small botanic gardens through APGA, as important scientific and cultural institutions we can grow the membership while increasing the public's awareness of these national treasures.

"I am very excited to take the role of Vice President of APGA, the organization is stronger than ever and we have ambitious plans for the future. I am particularly looking forward to finalizing the strategic plan for our organization and raising the image of botanic gardens nationally."