About me

Hi, I'm Nick, and I’m passionate about creating inclusive, meaningful experiences that drive impact.

I’ve had the privilege to work with diverse teams and clients, gaining experience in various industries. Each role has helped me grow my skills and deliver impactful design solutions that make a difference. With a background that spans user experience, service design, product strategy, and organizational transformation, I specialize in building cross-functional partnerships that align people’s needs with organizational goals.

Over the past decade, I’ve led initiatives across the public and private sectors—helping organizations reimagine services, modernize systems, and embed human-centered design into the fabric of their work. I bring a systems-thinking approach to complex problems, grounding innovation in research, equity, and measurable outcomes.

My work is informed by a foundation in the arts and humanities, which gives me a deep appreciation for storytelling, culture, and the human experience. Whether I’m shaping product strategy, facilitating workshops, or coaching teams, I aim to foster collaboration, curiosity, and change that lasts.

Outside of work, I’m an avid traveler and love languages and typography, sailing, and making art. Community is important to me, along with creating opportunities for those who come after me.

I mentor designers with ADPList and start-ups with MassChallenge.

I’ve served as President of UXPA Boston, on the board of AIGA Boston as Director of Education and later as Director of Partnerships and Outreach, and as co-organizer of the Boston chapter Action Design with the awesome Astrid Chow.

And I help organize TypeCon as part of the S{o}TA board.

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“Thanks to Nick Di Stefano for all the work you’ve done with the board as president. You and the board have introduced so many new, thoughtful, and creative ways to support members. Some of these changes have been subtle yet important. I hope your successors keep these things going and continue to practice the servant leadership you’ve demonstrated in your time as an officer.”

Dan Zollman

Information Architecture & User Experience Consultant

Founder, Ethical Technology

Here are some key challenges that I specialize in:

  • Establishing standardized tooling and systems for project scoping, resourcing, tracking, and archiving.

  • Crafting effective meeting structures, agendas, and action item documentation.

  • Nurturing team development by recruiting, onboarding new talent, establishing skill-enhancing programs, and providing resources for growth.

  • Managing vendor relationships and contracts with external providers, skillfully defining the scope of work, negotiating terms, and collaborating closely with finance departments.

  • Proficiently forecasting and tracking budgets across projects, vendors, agencies, and freelancers.

  • Leading and organizing special projects, recognition ceremonies, or other initiatives that lack a natural owner.

Let's connect and explore how I can contribute to your organization's growth and make a meaningful impact.

My Values

Research & Strategy

Empowering innovation through in-depth research and strategic planning, laying the groundwork for successful design solutions.

Design & Execution

Blending creativity with precision, I deliver aesthetically compelling and functionally robust designs from concept to completion.

Leadership & Mentorship

Fostering a culture of growth and excellence, I lead by example and mentor with a focus on nurturing talent and inspiring ideas.