Joannie K. Nickel

Joannie Nickel is a seasoned legislative advocate with a wealth of experience in public policy and strategic lobbying. With a deep understanding of the legislative process, she is highly skilled in researching and analyzing legislation and regulatory proposals, as well as drafting and amending bills. Joannie has also provided public testimony on a wide range of legislative issues, effectively presenting to audiences of all sizes and communicating complex policy matters with clarity. Additionally, she teaches the legislative process at the Local Government Leadership Institute, sharing her insights to help shape the next generation of public leaders.

Before joining Burr & Forman, Joannie served as the Legislative and Public Policy Advocate at the Municipal Association of South Carolina, representing over 270 municipalities statewide. In this role, she built and maintained strong relationships with House and Senate staff, state agencies, senators, and representatives. Her background also includes a decade of legislative research and collaboration with both House and Senate teams, which has allowed her to track, analyze, and influence a broad range of legislative agendas. Throughout her career, Joannie has earned a reputation for navigating complex policy issues, cultivating key relationships, and driving successful advocacy at the state level.

Outside of her professional career, Joannie is a published author, having written the book Daisy Rainbow and the Tangled Seaweed.

*Not licensed to practice law.

• Graduate, South Carolina Port Authority Ambassador (2023)
• Graduate, Local Government Leadership Institute (2021)
• Member, 100 Women Who Care
• Board Member, Trinity Episcopal Cathedral School
• Board Member, Cottontown
  • Treasurer (2023-2024)
• Member, Relay for Life of the Upstate
• Member, South Carolina DNR Litter Committee