WISCONSIN ROOTS
I'm Rebecca “Becky” Nichols and I grew up in rural Chilton, Wisconsin, where early life centered on hard work, responsibility, and contributing to the well-being of others. From a young age, I learned the realities faced by working families—balancing long hours, caring for loved ones, and managing unexpected expenses. These experiences shaped a practical, grounded understanding of community needs and the importance of reliable public services that support everyday life without placing unnecessary strain on residents or taxpayers.
I worked a variety of physically demanding and service-oriented jobs while pursuing higher education, including assembling small engines on a factory floor, waiting tables, and working as a custodian. These roles instilled discipline, resilience, and an appreciation for the dignity of work across sectors. Through careful planning and persistence, I earned a degree in Music Education from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, funding college through earned income rather than external support.
My husband, Jeff Nichols, a lifelong Menasha resident and I chose to make Menasha home, committing long-term to the community, schools, and neighborhoods.
CHAMPION FOR OUR COMMUNITY
I served on the Menasha City Council for 12 years of continuous service. During this time, I chaired and served on numerous council committees where much of the city’s policy work is developed, refined, and implemented. In 2022, I was also elected to the Winnebago County Board, expanding involvement in decisions that directly affect Menasha residents through county-level policy and funding.
Currently, I am a teacher at Menasha Joint School District and have found myself educating at all levels K-12, including time as a band teacher and serving on the Menasha Education Fund Board, supporting opportunities for all students across the district.
Public Service Experience
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Public School Teacher
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Menasha City Council
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Winnebago County Board Supervisor
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Winnebago County Human Services Board
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Neenah-Menasha Fire Rescue Personnel & Finance Committee
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Menasha Redevelopment Authority
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Elisha D. Smith Public Library Board of Trustees
Community Involvement
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Menasha Education Fund Board of Directors
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Habitat for Humanity Rock the Block volunteer
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Doty Island Development Council
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Boys and Girls Brigade volunteer
READY TO LEAD
I have a proven track record of getting things done. One of my proudest accomplishments was the removal of lead laterals from Menasha’s water system. I served two years on the Winnebago County Board where I successfully fought for public health vending machines, and helped secure funding for both Neenah and Menasha Police Departments and Neenah-Menasha Fire Rescue.
Communication and transparency are central to my approach to governance. My time on the City Council has reinforced the importance of listening, sharing information clearly, and engaging residents in decisions that affect daily life.
I promise to continue and expand this same approach to make sure every resident of my district is heard, valued and a part of this process to find solutions that work for our community.
