This fall, we asked locals to nominate Hunterdon County’s biggest Movers & Shakers. With dozens of amazing stories, our accomplished judges had their work cut out for them when it came to narrowing down the Top 10 Movers & Shakers of 2014!
With the official results in, we’re going to be taking a closer look at each winner and sharing their incredible stories.
Next up, meet Nicole Voight, Managing Partner and a co- founder of Flemington-based Shanahan & Voigt, LLC. After earning many impressive degrees from Northeastern University School of Law, University of Colorado in Boulder graduate program, and California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, Nicole settled in Delaware Township, NJ. Nicole is also the founding President of Rotary District 7510’s first eClub, the Rotary eClub of Hunterdon Horizon.
HH: You’ve accomplished so much already at a young age! What motivates you every morning?
NV: My two amazing sons, Sean and Wyatt Jaeger.
HH: What would you say is your idea of a perfect day?
NV: For me, a perfect day happens when I am deeply present to my children and the natural world around me. Whether we work together in the yard and sit by the fire on a cozy fall day, or travel to the beach in the summer with a car ride of great conversation, or playfully hike through the woods then talk by a campfire, we slow down and live in the now, completely there for each other. These days are filled with spirit, nurturing, rejuvenation, and gratitude.
HH: Who inspires you?
NV: I am inspired by other leaders in our community who have years of demonstrated compassion, business success based upon principals and respect, and community involvement that makes life better for others. My business partner, Bob Shanahan, is one such person. The Colalillo family, including Joe, another Mover & Shaker nominee, is another source of inspiration. I am also inspired by my female colleagues who confidently approach business and community involvement in a manner that seamlessly debunks outdated stereotypes about women in business.
HH: How did you decide to pursue a career in law?
NV: I am a writer and an advocate at heart. While I initially pursued a career in environmental science and research, I ultimately wanted the education and skills of an attorney, so that I could involve myself more directly in decision making and justice. My legal career then naturally gravitated towards real estate, business, construction, and environmental, given my life long exposure to these areas through my family businesses and interests.
HH: Which achievement are you most proud of?
NV: Professionally, I am most proud of recently opening a new law firm with my partner, Bob Shanahan. Socially, I am most proud of being the founding President of Rotary District 7510’s first eClub, the Rotary eClub of Hunterdon Horizon. Personally, I am most proud of passionately caring for my children.
Shanahan and Voigt LLC’s Ribbon Cutting ceremony
HH: What has been the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome?
NV: Re-entering the legal field, in a new jurisdiction, by building a career partially focused in real estate, during a real estate crash, while raising young children.
HH: What is the biggest accomplishment that you’d like to achieve over the next 5 years?
NV: I have a few books which I would like to write, and some community work to foster, while also accomplishing continued growth within my law firm, and striving for work/life balance.
HH: How do you think your friends & coworkers would describe you?
NV: I asked them: Resourceful, intelligent, determined, hard-working, kind, fun-loving, well-rounded.
HH: Where’s your favorite place to go in Hunterdon County?
NV: The Delaware River and its watershed, whether kayaking, hiking, biking, dining, picnicking, swimming. I love the river.
HH: If you could go back in time and talk to yourself ten years ago, what advice would you give?
NV: Ten years ago, just before the real estate market and economy crashed, I would say, “simplify, sell, and save!!!”
We Are Supported By:
