Nida was born in Larena, a town in the enchanting and mystical island of Siquijor, Philippines. She attended Silliman University, earning a degree in Mass Communication.  In 1980, she migrated to Northern California and studied management and supervision at De Anza College and Solano Community College.  She worked for Verbatim Corporation and the U.S. Postal Service before joining the California Highway Patrol (CHP) where she worked for 22 years.  At CHP, Nida rose through the ranks and attained the position of Commander for the CHP’s Office of Equal Employment Opportunity.  Before retiring, Nida accepted a promotion with the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation as Progr­am Manager then Chief of the Office of Civil Rights.

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Nida’s appreciation of classical music and performing arts started at Silliman University.  Her only son Ryan plays the alto saxophone and was a member of the Sacramento Youth Symphony’s (SYS) Classical Orchestra and Symphonic Wind Ensemble. 

In addition to serving on the SYS board, Nida serves as an Area Director for Toastmasters District 39 and as Treasurer for International Philippines Association.  Nida loves to read biographies, watch foreign films, and travel.  Having visited France three times, she is currently learning French.