maddie nichols, gender-based violence advocate

Madeline (Maddie) Nichols is a member of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, as well as descendant of the Anishinaabe, Wyandotte and Seneca Cayuga Nations.  

Within her career, Maddie has navigated many roles, primarily working for Tribes or Native Non-Profits within social services; previously she served as an advocate for the Pathways to Healing Program through the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. Previously she has worked as a home visitor for children and families, a Tribal liaison and as a resident aide at an inpatient substance use treatment center. Maddie recently graduated from the University of Oklahoma Law School with a master’s in legal studies in Indigenous Peoples Law, and she completed her undergraduate at the Evergreen State College in 2013 with a degree in Native Studies. 

A core value that she holds within her work is that connection is healing - Maddie seeks to integrate Indigenous teachings such as humor, generosity and harmony into her work with participants. Maddie is a local to this area, having been born and raised in North Bend, Washington where her parents still reside. She enjoys spending time with her family and dog, friends and her partner. Her hobbies include creating beadwork, drawing, attending pow wows, reading and watching movies.