Our Team

Nichole Schmidt

President

People always ask, "how do you do it?"  My answer is always the same, "knowing our daughters legacy has left an impact that can save many lives, that's what drives me." 
I'm a mom of four amazing children, though Gabby is not physically here with us, she continues to show us her presence through unmistakable signs.  My husband Jim has been my rock that helps me keep it together!  I'm an artist with a degree in Graphic Design, loved my time as an EMT,  and have learned so much through working with kids with disabilities in public school as a teaching assistant. Going to the beach is like medicine for me, traveling makes me happy and I find joy in the little things. 
Since my beautiful daughter Gabby was murdered, here I am, an advocate for change in the world of domestic violence and missing persons.  This path, one I never would have wished for or imagined, is what keeps me going when I see that "little ol' me" can help make difference in the world. 
My mission, my hope,  is to be a voice for victims, survivors, and their families to create meaningful change that can save lives, and help find the missing, in Gabby's memory.  
Be a good human, love more, do more, and give more.  

Joseph Petito

Vice President

My name is Joseph Petito.  I am the father of three beautiful children.  I have worked in the corporate world for over 20 years and have learned to become a good leader by never asking anyone to do something I am not willing to do myself.  After the tragic death of my daughter, Gabby, I am now the Vice President of the Gabby Petito Foundation.  Although new to advocacy I have seen the gaps that need to be filled when it comes to the missing and domestic violence.  I am determined and it is my goal to make Gabby proud of the work this foundation will do.