Dr. Ann Nivens
Ms North Carolina Senior America 2025
Dr. Ann Nivens is a lifelong servant leader, educator, advocate, entrepreneur, and musician whose life is rooted in compassion, dedication, and purpose. Born in Sumter, South Carolina on December 16, 1954, and raised in the small farming community of Manning, she now proudly resides in Mooresville, North Carolina. Ann began her journey as an educator in 1976, serving as a teacher and educational leader for over 40 years.
Ann earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Gardner-Webb University in 2006 and holds both Principal and Superintendent certifications. Her work earned her numerous accolades, including Teacher of the Year, Assistant Principal of the Year, and the Distinguished Star Award for Educational Improvements as a principal in Charlotte, North Carolina. Even after retiring in 2010, Ann served as interim principal of 21 Charlotte-area schools until 2020, continuing her mission to support and strengthen public education. Ann was passionate about helping all students succeed in a supportive, inclusive environment that nurtured their full potential. She built strong relationships, supported staff through coaching and professional development, and led the implementation of successful programs and initiatives.
Beyond education, Ann is a fierce advocate for children as a Guardian-ad-Litem volunteer, representing abused and neglected children in court, and ensuring that they are protected, cared for, and nurtured. She also serves as President of the Mooresville/Lake Norman Rotary Club, where she upholds the values of “Service Above Self” through impactful community service projects and fundraisers.
Ann’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to a successful part-time career in network marketing with Excel Communications, where she was nationally recognized as a top money earner and National Training Director. Over the past five years, Ann worked as an independent travel agent assisting clients by researching, planning and booking amazing vacations.
A lifelong performer, Ann sings, dances and plays the drums at local venues, private events, and charitable functions—donating all her performance tips to children’s charities.
Above all, Ann is most proud to be the mother of four and grandmother of six. After losing her beloved husband five years ago, Ann feels blessed to have a new amazing love in her life. With grace, passion, and a deep commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others, Dr. Ann Nivens is honored to bring her voice and vision to the Senior Ms. America stage.
2nd RU: Julie Lowery; Queen Ann; 1st RU: Sandy Smothers; 3rd RU Karen Reese May