Nicole Bauer, MA
Nicole Bauer, MA, is the Senior Director of Operations at Stop Soldier Suicide, where she leads strategic initiatives that enhance organizational performance and scalability. With a career spanning both military and civilian sectors, Nicole brings a unique blend of operational rigor, data-driven insight, and mission-focused leadership. Her work focuses on translating organizational vision into efficient systems, scalable processes, and measurable impact, particularly in healthcare and social service environments.
Prior to her current role, Nicole served as the Wellness Center Operations Director at Stop Soldier Suicide, and in senior leadership positions at Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota. She has extensive experience overseeing complex operational portfolios, implementing technology and process improvements, and mentoring leaders to navigate change effectively. Nicole’s approach emphasizes building reliable systems that allow clinicians and teams to focus on their core work while maintaining consistency, efficiency, and high-quality service delivery.
Nicole earned a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of St. Thomas, graduating with a 4.0 GPA, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Minnesota, summa cum laude. An Army veteran, she has applied military-grade discipline and analytical skills to improve operational outcomes, including dramatically reducing response times in critical processes. Beyond her professional achievements, Nicole is deeply committed to serving veterans, caregivers, and community initiatives, reflecting a career built on leadership, impact, and service.
• University of St. Thomas - MA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of curiosity, persistence, and a strong sense of purpose rooted in service. My military background shaped my mindset, teaching me discipline, how to stay calm under pressure, and the importance of stepping in to support the team wherever needed. I pair this with analytical thinking, clinical training, and firsthand client experience, which allow me to anticipate needs, interpret data effectively, and drive meaningful improvements while leading by example.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering this industry to build confidence in data literacy and embrace every opportunity to analyze and improve systems. Trust that disciplined thinking, combined with a clear sense of purpose, can open doors and create meaningful impact. I also encourage seeking out mentors, staying resilient in the face of challenges, and having the courage to step forward and lead rather than waiting for permission.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is overcoming resistance to change within established systems and fostering organizational cultures that truly value data-driven decision-making. In nonprofit operations, this is often compounded by wearing many hats and working with limited personnel and resources, which requires flexibility, creativity, and the ability to balance reactive demands with strategic, proactive improvements. At the same time, there’s tremendous opportunity in the growing demand for professionals who can interpret data and drive measurable outcomes. Advances in analytics and a greater appreciation for evidence-based process improvement create fertile ground for leaders who can bridge technical insight with strategic execution — and this is a space where I’m excited to make an impact.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are service, integrity, and making a meaningful impact. I prioritize contributing positively to the lives of others, improving systems so people can operate more effectively, and leading with humility and purpose. I also value family, community, and ethical leadership, striving to be relational and approachable, put the team first, maintain consistency in processes, and ensure client-centered care is always at the forefront.
Outside of work, my family remains my top priority. I am deeply passionate about giving back, supporting my community, and advocating for others—especially fellow veterans and underserved populations. My military experience has instilled in me a lifelong commitment to service and using my skills to uplift and create positive change in the lives of others.
Locations
Stop Soldier Suicide
Blaine, MN 55449