My name is Nikki D’Alessandro. I’m originally from Massachusetts and my educational journey has also taken me to Iowa and Maine. During this time, I was extremely lucky to experience a study abroad opportunity in Heidelberg, Germany where I lived with a host family, worked, and studied the German culture and language. Maine is by far the favorite state that I have lived and worked in. I adore nature, I have a small background in forestry and a larger background in equine management and care. Reading, hiking, riding, and exploring the surrounding neighborhoods are some of the ways I enjoy my time away from work.

Ironwood is the first residential treatment school I’ve worked at and I have to admit that I love my job. I enjoy helping the Residents stay on track as they develop their personal goals and character. Watching the progression of an individual's growth is one of the most rewarding aspects of my position and it's so amazing to see many of our Residents want to take on more and more responsibility. I enjoy bringing my knowledge of animals and nature into the daily activities of the Residents. I am committed to building a strong foundation at Ironwood, so that everyone will feel safe, secure, accepted, and admired as they move through their individual program. My favorite quote is " A road without obstacles leads nowhere."