Nicole Herman
Policy Advisor
Areas of Focus
- Lobbying & Public Policy
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity, Privacy & Data Protection
- Technology
- Advises clients on complex federal policy and regulatory issues related to artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, defense, foreign relations, telecommunications, transportation, consumer protection, and privacy.
- Supports Akin’s Federal AI Policy team through legislative strategy, stakeholder engagement, policy analysis, and advocacy efforts related to technology, national security, infrastructure, and federal oversight.
- Served as a legislative aide to U.S. Senator John Thune, supporting policy development and legislative strategy across the commerce, defense, and foreign relations portfolios.
- Extensive experience engaging with congressional committees, federal agencies, and industry stakeholders on emerging technology, national security, and regulatory policy priorities.
Nicole served for nearly five years in the U.S. Senate, most recently as a legislative aide to U.S. Senator John Thune. She offers clients valuable insights into congressional priorities and is highly skilled in policy development, strategic communications, and preparation for high-level engagements involving emerging technology, defense, and foreign relations.
Prior to working with Sen. Thune, Nicole gained experience in government and international affairs through roles with the U.S. House of Representatives, United Nations Association and Fairfax County Government. Nicole holds a Master of Arts in Security Policy Studies from The George Washington University and a Bachelor of Arts in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from George Mason University.
EducationM.A., The George Washington University, 2023
B.A., George Mason University, 2021
M.A., The George Washington University, 2023
B.A., George Mason University, 2021
