Staff & Board of Trustees

Nicole St. Mary – Franson was born and raised in the Yakima Valley. After serving in the Archdiocese of Seattle as a teacher, principal, and executive principal for many years, Nicole returned to Yakima in 2018 to be closer to her family. She has been with the Foundation since May of 2020.

Nicole has a strong background in educational leadership, fundraising and development, and organizational management. With her past experiences in education and in the business sector, Nicole believes that accessible Catholic education for all who desire it, is the guiding mission of her work.

Outside of work, Nicole enjoys spending time with her two children, Margaret and Aiden, and her husband Michael. They enjoy attending professional sporting events, working in the garden, and traveling (especially to the beach) when time permits. Nicole also has a passion for baking tasty treats for her family and friends.

Nicole continues to bring her innovative spirit, passion for education, and strong work ethic to the Foundation as she collaboratively works with the Board of Trustees to expand programs and increase support for the Catholic schools and parishes in the Diocese of Yakima.