Dr. Nicole Wilson (she/her) serves as an Expert Guide with FirstGen Forward, where she supports institutions in advancing student success by strengthening their efforts to support first-generation college students. Nicole's professional experience spans multiple institutional types across the country, with a focus on academic advising, qualitative research, and first-generation student initiatives. As a former University Innovation Alliance Fellow (Purdue University), Nicole contributed to national efforts focused on advancing success for first-generation students and improving outcomes through institutional collaboration and innovation.

A TRIO Talent Search Alum, Nicole’s work is grounded in a commitment to listening to students and using their experiences to inform meaningful institutional change. Her scholarship centers on the nature of coaching first-generation college students and the ways coaching relationships can support students’ persistence, success, and sense of belonging.

Nicole holds a BS from Ohio University, a MEd from University of Florida in student personnel in higher education, and earned her PhD in higher education from the University of Michigan. Outside of higher education, Nicole is a mother, community builder, storyteller, and outdoor adventure enthusiast.