MY STORY.
What's yours?
Growing Up
Niki, a native of Birmingham, Alabama, was doomed to talk for a living at an early age. She mostly talked to herself growing up because she was an only child. Niki was born into a "loud and louder" extended Italian family, so good luck being heard. The gift of gab truly came naturally, and her 4th grade teacher [Hi Mrs.G!] even donned her with the "most likely to have her own talk show" superlative. How prophetic! Niki's love for sports began at an early age as a fierce right fielder [courtesy position] and stone wall for grounders in T-Ball for the Hoover A's.
Believe it or not, Niki's passion for sports was heavily influenced by her grandmothers [you too, dad!] constantly quizzing her about the Braves lineup. Shoutout to the '95 team and my Auttie and GaGa for keeping it real.
Professionally
At Oak Mountain High School, Niki talked her way [shockingly] into the Broadcast Journalism class as a sophomore, which was only open to upper-level students. During those three years, she laid the foundation for what she's always wanted to do! Niki worked three jobs during college at the University of Alabama [class of '09] to make her dream a reality.
Niki has since served as a TV host, reporter, anchor, and emcee. She's worked for various sporting events nationwide, representing networks such as ESPN, SEC Network, HLN, Atlanta Falcons, Bally’s, Georgia Public Broadcasting, Atlanta’s CW69, NCAA, PGA.com, and more.
Niki has appeared as a talent for commercials and promotional videos for companies like Disney and Moe's Southwest Grill. She’s a well-versed event host and moderator for organizations such as the Atlanta Falcons, Chick-fil-A, Birmingham Fashion Week, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She brings energy to obscure things like renewing unofficial vows on Valentine’s Day at the Botanical Gardens (true story) and loves hosting a good Christmas Tree lighting or parade! NASCAR invocation? She can do that, too! Italian Festivals? Yep.
Niki has been featured in magazines such as the University of Alabama's Communicator Magazine as a featured alumna, Birmingham Family Christian Magazine, Men’s Health, and JEZEBEL.
Personally
Niki resides in the suburbs of Atlanta with her husband, Michael, their three kiddos, and pup (Dottie). Niki is a W.I.S.E [Women in Sports and Events] member and is currently involved in their Wise Within mentor/mentee program. Niki will serve this year as a mentor for the Boys and Girls Club of Metro Atlanta's Youth of the Year program. Niki is passionate about high school athletes and sits on Atlanta’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes board. She enjoys spending time with family + friends, traveling, playing golf and tennis, being a room mom, and strolling through Delta Sky priority lanes.
Moving Forward
It took many [many] years of practice, but instead of looking forward, she tried to live in the present. Niki recognizes her professional and personal blessings and continues to pursue them with tenacity and integrity. With that being said, she is most certainly available for professional opportunities or collaborations and looks forward to utilizing this space so we can familiarize ourselves with each other!
