Nikola manages two multi-city programs and catalyzes coalition-wide learning exchanges. He leads our engagement design work and partners with colleagues to continuously improve our engagement techniques and technical assistance. In addition, Nikola provides consulting and technical assistance to nine grantee cities committed to moving the needle on specific public challenges.

Nikola comes to Cities of Service from the City of Dubuque, Iowa where he served as a Community Engagement Coordinator within the Human Rights Department. In that role, he worked with city staff to develop shared terminology, offer multiple six week citizen academies, as well as create a comprehensive public engagement system. His work at the City of Dubuque spanned from helping staff involve the public in city budget planning to an ordinance update. Prior to his work with the City of Dubuque, Nikola served as the Director at CultureALL where he developed public outreach events, implemented an internship infrastructure, coached cultural ambassadors, and implemented fundraiser events.

Nikola holds a master of science from Drake University in adult learning and organizational performance and a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from the University of Iowa. Nikola lives in Brooklyn. You can find him at a local coffee shop, outside taking pictures (especially when it is snowing), or at one of the many community events.