Nicole Wheatly

Nicole J-Wheatly has a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management and graduated with honors with a Master of Arts Degree in Applied Professional Studies from DePaul University. She also holds an Urban Public Policy Certificate of Graduate Studies from the University of Illinois. Nicole is known across the city of Chicago for her highly motivational and inspirational mentoring and leadership. She has over 20 years as a Community Development Planner with a strong emphasis in Business and Housing Development. As a businesswoman, her accolades include being the Founder of Sensual Steps Shoe Salon, a premiere high fashion shoe boutique in the heart of the Bronzeville community. She owns and operates Steps Inc. Consulting, a community development consulting company that provides comprehensive community plans to improve the quality of businesses, housing, education, social services and health/security. Nicole also founded Providing U Motivation to Pursue Success, known as P.U.M.P.S., a nonprofit education and neighborhood revitalization organization that is committed to strengthening neighborhoods and lives through homeownership and business creation. PUMPS, now rebranded as A Step Beyond, she continues with the work that is dear to her heart.