Nicole is a partnership specialist with a deep passion for ministry, education, and fine arts. She has served as a dance instructor for 21 years, a math and science teacher for 7 years, and a minister for 4 years. All of these roles have fueled her desire to help develop the eager minds of children and equip them to reach their fullest potential in all aspects of life.
Nicole was born and raised in San Diego, California, and moved to Texas in 2012. During her college years, she attended San Diego State University, studying psychology and dance, then later continued her studies at Ashford University, receiving a bachelor’s degree in Child Development with a summa cum laude distinction. Shortly after that, she became a licensed minister after completing an intensive two-year ministry program in Dallas, TX. She has been awarded teacher of the year in 2019-2020 and nominated for teacher of the year in 2021-2022. She has been recognized by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for high teaching performance and awarded a TIA (Teacher Incentive Allotment) designation for the past two years.
Nicole is passionate about helping others find their purpose and thrives in relationship building. She loves spending quality time with loved ones and meeting new people.
Holly Winchell is the Director of School Care at Friendzy and has been working in education and leadership development for 10 years. As a music teacher, a director of volunteers, and now at Friendzy, Holly has cultivated a passion for equipping students and adults alike to lead well by harnessing the collective power of empathy, intention, skill, and sparkle. As Director of School Care, Holly works with Friendzy’s success and partnership specialists to ensure all schools receive the highest level of care and support throughout their Friendzy journey. Holly also puts her Business degree to work as the Director of the HR and marketing departments at Friendzy. Holly releases music as a singer/songwriter in her spare time and is always ready for a chat about all things music and media- especially great albums, sci-fi literature, and the NBA!