Suzie Nichols: Passionate musician composes second career in finance

Suzie Nichols discovered a new career path as an Edward Jones financial adviser after starting out as a choral music teacher. She remains active in musical pursuits in the community, but enjoys helping clients achieve their financial goals.

Suzie Nichols has three primary passions in her life - music, finance and family.

STAFF PHOTO FLIP PUTTHOFF Turkey vulture Igor spreads wings for wildlife rehabilitator Lynn Sciumbato and the crowd at Hobbs State Park-Wildlife Management Area. When vultures soar, they’re smelling for food, Sciumbato told the crowd at the park visitor center during her program. “That makes sense because their food stinks,” she said.

Nichols, an Edward Jones financial adviser in Jefferson City, started her professional career teaching choral music, armed with a bachelor of science in vocal music education and a master's degree in music theory. After many years as a music teacher, Nichols switched paths to finance and became an accredited asset management specialist.

"I've always been interested in financial security for my family," Nichols said. "When I found out about Edward Jones and how I could help not only my family but others in the community, I knew I had to give it a try. Over 20 years later, I still get great satisfaction from helping my clients achieve their goals."

Though Nichols discovered a new career path, her love for music remained strong. Upon her arrival in Jefferson City, Nichols became a performer and a music director with The Little Theatre. Later, she directed choirs at the Presbyterian Church and the Community Christian Church. In 1986, Nichols founded The Missourians, a Charles Dickens-style a cappella group, and the Boogie Woogie Babes, an Andrews Sisters-style song and dance group, seven years later. Since the group's infancy, The Missourians have donated more than $85,000 to the University of Missouri Singers scholarships. The choral group is in its final year and will hold performances in December.

Though she finds satisfaction in the financial and musical fields, Nichols said she enjoys spending time with her grandsons the most.

Q. Who has invested in you and your career?

"Me! My parents encouraged me to go to college, but I paid for it myself by working during my four years at the University of Missouri. While at MU, I was encouraged by my mentor, Tom Mills. Throughout the pursuit of my master's degree and all along my career my husband, Nick, has been my biggest supporter and best friend."

Q. What choices have you made to invest in yourself and your own success?

"It was later in life that I decided to join Edward Jones - I had been a teacher for nearly 20 years. And while I was studying for my new career, we became a single-income family with two children about to enter college. It took a little sacrifice and a lot of bravery, but it was the best thing I ever did for myself - and for my family."

Q. What do you think are the biggest issues still facing women in the workplace?

"There is still the problem of wage disparity between men and women in many professions, but I have seen women make great strides in equality, and I know we will continue to progress."

Q. What drives you most in life and in your career?

"Life - my family, particularly my two grandsons, keep me motivated. Career - I really enjoy helping people understand the basics of investing so that they can actively participate - the more you know, the less frightening it is. I love coming to work and helping people secure their financial futures."

Q. What advice would you give to a woman entering the workforce today?

"Work hard, stick up for yourself and remember to be kind."

15 in 15 Profiles:

Carrie Tergin: Third generation entrepreneur shares time between business, mayoral duties

Erin Wiseman: Attorney balances courtroom duties with a heavy dose of community ties

Nikki Payne: Boutique owner brings something new to hometown

Kris Ballage: Real estate agent never closes the door to opportunities

Suzie Nichols: Passionate musician composes second career in finance

Mary Kay Kempker: Jeweler connects with customers as friends

Catherine Crum: Salon owner relies on faith and community to spur success

Dr. Angel Allen: Experienced dermatologist focuses her business on stopping melanoma

Regina Garr: Birds-I-View owner a longtime presence for those who share her passion