Nicki was born and raised in Champaign. She is married and has three children. She graduated from the Parkland College Veterinary Technician program in 1992 and became licensed the same year. Nicki worked in Homewood, Illinois, for one year before returning home in 1993 to work at VCA Heritage Animal Hospital. She previously served as a foster person for the Champaign County Humane Society and continues fostering for many orphaned pets.