Young Alumna Sets Example for Giving

Nicki DeGroot, '03

"Once a year, go someplace you've never been before. —the Dalai Lama

This quote is one that Nicki DeGroot, '03, loves and lives.

"My goal is to visit all 50 states. I only have three left!" she says.

She enjoys all the new experiences travel entails. Traveling has taught her to live in the moment and be flexible.

While still in high school, Nicki traveled from her hometown of Spencer to Cedar Falls to visit UNI for the first time. That initial visit captured her attention and intention.

"The campus was beautiful, and I kept thinking of all the opportunities that would be available. I wanted to major in business, and UNI seemed like a great fit," she says.

Nicki gives much credit to Dr. Mir Zaman for her successful completion of the Chartered Financial Analyst® exam program and is grateful for his connections in helping her find her first job. She currently works on the corporate finance team at Optum/UnitedHealth Group in the Twin Cities. In her spare time, she attends activities in the area, including Minnesota Twins and Vikings games, and volunteers with Junior League of Minneapolis.

As a young alumna, Nicki is taking a leap forward to support UNI's future generation of students. She received a scholarship as a student and now supports an annual scholarship. By naming UNI as the beneficiary of her 401(k), she shows estate planning can begin at any stage of life.

When the gift is realized, it will go toward her scholarship, which will allow it to become an endowed, full-tuition and fees scholarship.

"The recent death of my father made me realize how important it is to make plans according to my own wishes," she says.

Nicki hopes her gift will light the way for others to follow.