Nikki Braun
Director, Advancing Philanthropy and Development
Nikki Braun is a vibrant professional with over 15 years of experience connecting people, building relationships, and delivering results across both nonprofit and corporate sectors. With a warm demeanor and positive outlook, Nikki thrives in team settings and brings contagious energy to every interaction—whether she’s working with colleagues, clients, or donors.
Known for turning relationships into results, she brings a personal touch to everything from donor outreach to overall fundraising strategy. With a focus in recent years on stewardship and donor communications, she’s helped shape efforts that have led to six-figure contributions and meaningful mission impact. In a previous role, she was personally responsible for securing over $1M in new revenue for UPMC Children's Hospital Foundation in just two and a half years. Whether she’s drafting a message or mapping a plan, her strength lies in making people feel seen—and inspired to give. Her sharp attention to detail ensures nothing gets overlooked, and every effort feels intentional.
Nikki’s diverse background includes experience in donor engagement, client relations, corporate events, project management, research, and strategic communications. She brings a “can-do” attitude to every role and excels at balancing multiple priorities while keeping relationships at the heart of her work.
Outside of her professional work, Nikki is the proud co-founder (with her husband and friends) of the Chip In For Children’s Foundation, an annual charity golf event benefiting UPMC Children’s Hospital Foundation. She leads strategic planning and community engagement efforts, using her creativity and passion to inspire generosity and support.
Nikki holds a Bachelor of Arts in Media & Professional Communications and a Certificate in Corporate and Community Relations from the University of Pittsburgh. She and her husband, Nick, are raising three kids—Sophia, Lincoln, and Brody—while residing in Penn Township, PA. Together, they embrace the full pace of family life, finding joy in the busyness and meaning in the everyday moments.