In this WOCN® Society Member Spotlight edition, we’re proud to feature Nicole Kindel, BSN, RN, CWOCN, President of the Northwest Chapter! Based in Oregon, Nicole has been a dedicated member of the Society for 17 years and brings her passion for wound care, mentorship, and leadership to every aspect of her work. Her drive to support patients, inspire fellow nurses, and grow her chapter is evident through her many contributions at both the local and national levels. Read Nicole’s story below—and don’t forget to visit the Northwest Chapter’s new website for the latest resources and opportunities!
A Passion Discovered in Critical Care
Nicole’s interest in healthcare began at a young age—she was always the nurse during childhood games of “doctor’s office.” Her journey into WOC nursing took shape in the ICU, where she discovered a passion for wound care, especially dressing changes. “The messier, the better,” she laughs, recalling how she would eagerly trade coworkers’ dressing changes in exchange for avoiding IV starts—so much so that she left the ICU owing hundreds of them. At the heart of it all, Nicole simply loves making people feel better and finds fulfillment in witnessing healing every day.
Making a Difference Every Day
Nicole finds daily fulfillment in her work. “I feel like a celebrity at work sometimes,” she jokes. “Most people are happy when I show up because they know help has arrived.”
She is especially proud of the impact she has on new ostomy patients, transforming their fear and discouragement into confidence and empowerment. “I hear things like, ‘I wish I had done this sooner,’ ‘I’m living again,’ or ‘You were right, it’s not that bad!” she says. These moments are reminders of the meaningful role WOC nurses play in patients’ lives.
Nicole also values the many opportunities the WOCN Society provides to give back. From volunteering to networking at conferences like WOCNext, she’s built lasting connections and found countless ways to stay engaged and support the WOC community.
Inspired to Mentor and Grow
Nicole’s passion for mentorship is just as strong as her love for patient care. Early in her nursing studies and career, after working alongside WOC nurses for only a few hours, she knew it was what she wanted to do. Working with new nurses and helping them grow is close to her heart. She recalls working with a Med/Surg nurse who showed early interest in wound care. Over the years, this nurse became a skin champion, co-chair of the skin team, and was recently accepted into a WOC education program. “Watching her grow has been an absolute pleasure,” Nicole says.
Looking ahead, Nicole sees herself continuing exactly where she is. “I love my daily work so much that I expect I’ll be here until I retire” (which is still 20+ years away!). She plans to remain active in both local and national volunteer roles, which she finds especially motivating.
Life Outside the Clinic
When she’s not working, Nicole enjoys spending time with her two teenage children and two high-energy Australian cattle dogs. The family loves hiking, going to the beach, and spending quality time with friends and loved ones.
Leading the Northwest Chapter
Nicole’s leadership journey began when her mentor, Cathie Potts, invited her to attend a local community meeting. She soon took over as chair and became a conference planner, eventually holding nearly every position on the Northwest Chapter Board. “My drive to ‘be more like Cathie’ is stronger than ever,” she says.
One point of pride for Nicole is that the Northwest Chapter hosts its own annual conference, entirely planned and executed by board members and dedicated volunteers. The success of these events reflects the chapter’s strong collaboration and commitment to member education.
One of her proudest achievements with the chapter is the success of their annual conference and Youth Rally dinner auction, which raised over $15,000 last year!
Lessons in Leadership
Nicole emphasizes that great leadership takes time. “You can’t become a great leader overnight… Be patient, ask questions, and give yourself grace when stepping into something new,” she advises.
With the board recently restructured to align with the national model, Nicole is excited about the future. She hopes to bring in new, eager WOC nurses with fresh perspectives and ideas to continue the chapter’s growth.
A Chapter That’s All About Fun
If Nicole had to describe her chapter in one word, it would be “FUN!” With members spread across the Northwest, many only see each other during monthly Zoom calls or the annual conference, but the camaraderie is strong. “We get the work done and have a good time doing it,” she says.
Visit the Northwest Chapter’s new website.