Billings, MT

Hannah Baldwin

Nicole Hodge

Nicole holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance from LSU-Shreveport. With over 14 years of experience in Project and Supply Chain Management, she excels in problem-solving, team building, and leadership. Through her work on various technical programs for the Department of Defense, she has witnessed academia’s growing recognition of the importance of integrating the arts into traditional STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, transforming it into STEAM. This shift acknowledges that art fosters creativity, critical thinking, and innovation, which are essential for holistic learning and problem-solving in today’s complex world.

A published poet, Nicole has always embraced writing as a means of creative expression, healing, and personal growth. Her deep appreciation for art stems from its ability to foster critical thinking, enhance visualization skills, and develop fine motor abilities. She is a strong advocate for integrating art into education and believes that art is essential for building children’s self-esteem, academic performance, and overall well-being.

Nicole is committed to promoting comprehensive art education through Children’s Art Classes (CAC), which offers a dynamic program designed to nurture creativity and growth in young minds. She understands that art has a profound impact on community development by fostering social cohesion, driving economic growth, preserving cultural identity, enhancing education, and improving health and well-being. Nicole is particularly passionate about using art to bridge generational gaps, bringing youth and the seniors together. Through shared artistic activities, she believes that both generations can learn from each other, build meaningful connections, and enrich their lives.