Home › About › Board of Directors › Nicole Winkler

International Development Consultant

Nicole Winkler

Quote:
“I support Rainbows because I know firsthand how isolating childhood loss can be. Rainbows gives young people a caring place to work through grief and change, and that kind of steady support can reshape how a young person grows forward.”

Nicole Winkler is honored to join the Rainbows Board, bringing her strengths in strategic fundraising, mission‑aligned storytelling, and building systems that deepen organizational impact. With over 20 years of experience in arts leadership, nonprofit strategy, and philanthropic development, and a Masters in Philanthropic Studies, she is guided by a deep belief that every child deserves to feel seen and supported through life’s hardest moments.

When Nicole is not working, you can find her mentoring young performers, producing new theatrical works, and supporting Chicago’s arts and community scenes. One fun fact about Nicole: She is a travelled dual citizen with Canada who works to ensure her senior pug continues to live the life she has grown accustomed.

Meet the Others

Governing Board President

Demi Hutchinson, Chair

“I joined the board because I lost my father in high school and know how isolating grief can feel at that age, and I’m excited to contribute to Rainbows mission of supporting every youth around the globe experiencing grief and loss.” By day, Demi works as a Partner at PierceGray, where ...
Governing Board Member

Patrick Martin, Vice Chair

"I joined the board because I wanted to stay connected to this amazing organization, and I’m excited to contribute by finding new donors and supporters and being an ambassador for Rainbows everywhere." By day, Patrick works as Executive Vice President at Cozen O'Connor Public Strategies, where he focuses on government relations and advocacy. ...
Governing Board Treasurer

Jud Ely, Treasurer

"I joined the board because I was a child of divorce, had no support mechanisms, and wanted to help and serve. I’m excited to try and raise awareness of Rainbows and its important mission and to help contribute to the financial well being of the organization by fundraising and by ...