Army veteran, author, and entrepreneur reflects on faith, resilience, and her Woodruff roots
By: Katina Rice-Davis, Staff Writer
katina@thewoodrufftimes.com
A Woodruff Foundation Built on Faith and Community
For Dr. Iasha K. Nichols, a US Army Veteran, Author, and Visionary, Woodruff is more than a hometown; it is the foundation of her faith, resilience, and purpose. A former resident of Woodruff and a proud graduate of Woodruff High School, Class of 1992, Nichols carries her roots with her wherever she goes, from military bases overseas to bookshelves and entrepreneurial ventures across the country.
“Growing up in Woodruff holds a deeply significant place in my life,” Nichols shared. “When I reflect on Woodruff, I am reminded of a true sense of home.” Though born in Hempstead, NY, her family returned to South Carolina, eventually settling in Enoree, where multiple generations (14 people) lived under one roof. “My childhood unfolded across several neighborhoods, including Kelly Acres, Woodsdale, and Sharp Street, each contributing to my understanding of community.” “It was the people in these areas who created an atmosphere of connection, support, and belonging.” Her upbringing, she says, was humble but grounded in strength, particularly from her remarkable mother and the women in her family who modeled resilience, grace, and faith. “That foundation, combined with my faith in God, shaped the resilience I carry with me today,” she said.
Woodruff High School Memories and Early Influences
Nichols’ memories of Woodruff High School remain vivid. She fondly recalls French classes with Mrs. “Madame” Metivier. “I can still hear her voice drifting through the classroom, rolling those French vowels with ease while we tried our best to keep up. I was so certain back then that I would one day move to Paris and speak French fluently, living out the dream of a girl who believed the world was wide and waiting.” Though life charted a different course, Nichols still had the opportunity to visit Paris, and still holds tight to the dreamer she once was, even noting that her favorite animated film remains Ratatouille, a film about Remy, a rat in Paris who dreams of becoming a great chef.
She also credits a former volleyball coach for instilling confidence and pushing her to see her own potential. And while she admits she and her classmates had their share of teenage mischief, Nichols views even those moments as part of the lessons that shaped her character. “Woodruff High wasn’t just a school,” she said. “It was a place where we grew up, found ourselves, and learned what it meant to carry memories that would stay with us long after the halls fell silent.”
Returning to her hometown community through this interview, she hopes her journey reminds others that dreaming big is not optional; it is necessary.
Dr. Iasha K. Nichols from page 5
“Representation matters,” she said. “Seeing role models who looked like me made all the difference.”
Distinguished Military Career and Service to Others
Nichols went on to serve more than 20 years in the United States Army, retiring after a distinguished career that included service in Kuwait during Operation Iraqi Freedom and assignments in Korea and Germany. Following in the footsteps of her grandfather, uncle, and brother, military service felt like a continuation of the family legacy. But it also became deeply personal.
“The military quickly taught me that failure was not an option,” she said. “It wasn’t about individual accomplishments; it was about the team, the mission, and the lives entrusted to my leadership.”
She served as a Telecommunications Operations Chief and later took on advocacy-centered roles, including as a Military Equal Opportunity Advisor, Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC), and Wounded Warrior Cadre. Supporting wounded and victimized soldiers became some of the most meaningful work of her career. Her time in uniform instilled discipline, accountability, and mission focus; qualities that now fuel her work as both an author and entrepreneur.
Authoring “Girl Grammy!” and Promoting Literacy and Legacy
Although Nichols has co-authored several books, she is extremely proud of her new children’s book, Girl Grammy! It is a joyful rhyming story celebrating the love and pride of becoming a grandmother. Inspired by her daughter Darasha’s gender reveal, and dedicated to her daughter and granddaughter, Darayah. The book reflects her deep commitment to family legacy. “This joyful story celebrates the love, pride, and excitement of becoming a grandmother,” Nichols said.
Written primarily for children ages 3–5 and the adults who shape their world, the book resonates strongly with grandparents, parents, educators, churches, and community organizations seeking culturally affirming stories that highlight Black family legacy and intergenerational love.
Nichols believes stories like Girl Grammy! are especially important today. “Our children are growing up in a world that moves fast and speaks loudly,” she said. “More than ever, they need consistent reminders that they are loved, valued, and a source of joy.”
As a sponsor of Black Children’s Book Week 2026–2027, her book will be featured in the Black Children’s Book Museum, a virtual museum highlighting children’s books with Black protagonists. She also plans to read within communities to promote literacy and share her excitement about grandmotherhood. Nichols will also be featured on a Times Square billboard in New York City for International Women’s Day and in promotion of Girl Grammy! A moment that underscores just how far her Woodruff roots have carried her.
Entrepreneurial Journey and Faith-Based Apparel Brand
Beyond writing, Nichols has launched a faith-based apparel brand, A WITNESS™, born during one of the most challenging seasons of her life. As a total and permanent disabled Veteran and survivor of pulmonary embolism and other serious medical conditions, Nichols describes the brand as her testimony “stitched into fabric.”
“A WITNESS™ means I have a story to tell about what God has done for me,” she said. “It’s for every person who’s walked through fire and still chooses to stand.” Rooted in Isaiah 43:2, the brand serves as a reminder that even in life’s deepest waters, no one stands alone. The collection currently includes T-shirts, hoodies, crewnecks, and sweatsuit sets, with plans to expand into hats and mugs. “When you see someone wearing this brand,” Nichols said, “just know they are a walking testimony.”
Advice for Future Generations: Don’t Quit
At this stage of her life, Nichols defines success simply: “Truly being at peace, creating and doing the things I love and am passionate about.” She is intentional about using her platforms to increase representation, especially for young girls and women who may not see themselves reflected in authors or entrepreneurs.
“I don’t want anyone to think they have to be perfect to get started,” she said. “Just be passionate about what you believe you are called to do.”
Her advice to young people in Woodruff is direct and unwavering: “Don’t quit.”
“When something doesn’t work out the first time, it isn’t the end; it’s preparation for when it does work out,” she said. “Your story makes your assignment unique.”
Nichols hopes future generations, especially young girls, understand that humble beginnings do not mean “less than” or “voiceless.” “Those who start from the ground up often carry grit and determination that can’t be taught,” she said. “Their beginnings become their strength.”
Girl Grammy! is available online at Barnes & Noble at this time, or by contacting Nichols directly at girlgrammy2024@gmail.com or DM her on Facebook under Dr. Iasha Nichols.
For inquiries about her A WITNESS™ apparel, individuals may send a private message through the A WITNESS™ Facebook page or email AWITNESSAPPAREL@GMAIL.COM.
Iasha and her super-supportive husband, Bruce, who’s a retired Marine Veteran, currently reside in Evans, GA. From Woodruff, SC, to global platforms, Dr. Iasha K. Nichols’ journey stands as a powerful reminder to her hometown: dream boldly, walk faithfully, and never underestimate the strength of your beginnings.
Author: Katina Davis
