Nikki has been with the Office of Legal Affairs since 1994. Prior to serving as legal counsel for the University, she was a partner in a small law firm in Athens, specializing in Domestic Relations, Real Estate and Tort Litigation. As Associate Director of the office, she, like the other attorneys assist and advise the administration on a variety of topics, including employment law, construction, real estate law, first amendment issues and criminal law matters. Nikki teaches Business Law and Construction Law.

She is a member of the National Association of College and University Attorneys, The Ohio Bar Association and the Athens County Bar Association. She has served on several Community Boards including Athens County Visiting Nurses, Big Brothers and Big Sisters and is currently active in the Bar Association Poverty Law Clinic, Athens County 4-H Council and the Ohio Horseman’s Council.

She received her undergraduate degree from Ohio University, and J.D. from Capital University Law School. Nikki lives in a rural area of Athens County with her fiancée, Earnie, 10 year old daughter, Stevie, several horses, dogs and other animals adopted by her daughter. When not at work, she enjoys being with her family, horseback riding, playing tennis and golf.

dioguard@ohio.edu