Nicole Willard, Director of Strategic Initiatives & Program Development
Dr. Nicole Willard is thrilled to be joining the BOPN community as she returns to her Massachusetts roots after several years in the Bay Area.
With a background spanning over a decade in early childhood education, Nicole brings a deep commitment to fostering strong, meaningful relationships between young learners, their teachers, and the natural world.
Nicole holds a B.S. in Developmental Psychology and Early Childhood Education from Wheelock College and an M.S. in Teacher Leadership from Quinnipiac University. She earned her Ed.D. in Curriculum, Teaching, Learning, and Leadership from Northeastern University, where her research focused on increasing accessibility to professional development for early educators, an effort she hopes will create more equitable opportunities across the field.
Nicole believes in nurturing children’s natural curiosity through hands-on experiences and meaningful connections. She sees the outdoors not just as a setting but as a teacher in itself that fosters wonder, resilience, and collaboration. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys reading, practicing yoga, and exploring coastal trails and beaches.
Nicole is so excited to join the BOPN community, where she looks forward to supporting children’s growth through exploration, play, and connection with nature.
