nkelleher@smcgov.org

Passionate, motivated, proactive, collaborative, genuine, forward-thinking, and compassionate, are just some of the qualities that describe this outstanding young leader in the field of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. Nica’s (she/her) personal experiences growing up in San Mateo County and her deep gratitude for the opportunities that enabled her to achieve her life and career goals have profoundly shaped her. Her awareness of the struggles and trauma her Italian grandparents faced as immigrants, along with witnessing close family members navigate the behavioral health care system, has fueled her dedication to promoting culturally informed equity and reducing behavioral health stigma. “I want all SMC residents to have the same privileges and ensure they get the care and representation they deserve to thrive.” 

As the coordinator of the Parent Project, a program that empowers parents and caregivers to strengthen and improve relationships with their children by providing strategies, tools, resources, and support, Nica has achieved remarkable success, particularly in resuming in-person classes after the pandemic. “In-person classes are the best way to build connections, learn from each other, create support, and get linked to services that can change their lives,” she says. Nica is also proud of the revised evaluation tools she has created to more effectively assess and improve ODE’s programs and services. She believes the best way to help our community members is to “learn from their barriers and struggles.” Additionally, she has taken an active role in amplifying the voices of marginalized communities by coordinating various listening sessions. With driven, capable, kindhearted, and inspiring leaders like Nica, the future of diversity and equity work is promising and hopeful. 

In addition to her commitment to work that advances behavioral health care equity and outcomes, Nica loves to spend time with her family, her cat “Baci” and her two dogs, “Rosie” and “Sophie.” She finds joy in hiking, going to the beach, relaxing under the sunshine, and delights in being a “foodie.”