Student leaders shine at Nichols annual awards ceremony
DUDLEY, Mass. – Nichols College recognized outstanding student leaders during its annual Student Leadership Awards ceremony on Tuesday, April 15. The event spotlighted students and organizations making a difference on campus—whether by leading standout programs, creating a more inclusive community, or going above and beyond in their roles.
Honors included the Bison Excellence and Legacy Awards, recognizing upperclassmen who embody what it means to be a Nichols leader, as well as distinctions for community service and impact. From first-year students to graduating seniors, recipients were applauded for their initiative and dedication, demonstrating the student-driven culture that is part of the Nichols College experience.
Here’s the list of honorees and some information about their awards:
Outstanding Student Organization of the Year is presented to the student organization that has made a significant impact on campus life while demonstrating exceptional leadership development among its members.
Award recipient: It’s On Us and executive committee members Gabby Case, Sarah Maher, Leah Nadeau, Samantha Rogala
Advisor of the Year recognizes a student organization advisor who exemplifies the spirit of the Nichols College community.
Award recipient: Leslee Ruggeri, Director of the Institute for Women’s Leadership, for her work with It’s On Us
Program of the Year recognizes an outstanding program developed, promoted and executed by a student organization.
Award recipient: Campus Activities Board – Casino Night and executive committee members Jack Clifford, Lily Clifford, Owen Connery, Aidan Downey, Evan Libby, Ali Vozzo
Community Service Leader of the Year is presented to a student who exemplifies outstanding dedication to community service and leadership.
Award recipient: Avery Moriarty
Student Belonging Award recognizes a student who exemplifies a deep commitment to cultivate a campus environment that emphasizes equity, well-being, diverse perspectives and inclusivity.
Award recipient: Alyvia Smith
Outstanding Work Study Student Award recognizes a work-study student who has made a meaningful impact on their office through dedication, professionalism and initiative.
Award recipient: Joseph Holmes
Rita A. Gatzke Memorial Student Government Association Appreciation Award is presented each year by the Nichols College student body to a faculty or staff member who has made a profound impact on the Nichols College community.
Award recipients: Deb Hanney and Ashley Lott, staff members from the Davis Cafe
Exceptional Leadership Award recognizes one exceptional student from each class—2025, 2026, 2027 and 2028—who stands out as a leader in the Nichols College community.
Award recipients:
Class of 2025: James Waller
Class of 2026: Kaitlin Baca
Class of 2027: Maya Orbegozo
Class of 2028: Malik Bel-Jean
Bison Trailblazer Award recognizes outstanding first- or second-year students who have made a significant impact on the Nichols College campus.
Award recipients: Aarilyn Artey, Angelina Coletti, Brooke Morin, Braydon Simpkins, Victoria Symock, Liam Wilcox
Bison Excellence Award recognizes outstanding juniors and seniors who fully embody the mission of Nichols College and the spirit of student life.
Award recipients: Nathan Carl, Jack Clifford, Gustavo Coto, Saige Frazier, Ema Jaskova, Evan Libby, Alisha Masson, John Pollock, Julia Revellese, Trystan St. Pierre, Caroline Shields, Alvin Torres, Ali Vozzo
Bison Legacy Award recognizes two outstanding seniors who have exemplified exceptional leadership, both academically and through their involvement in extracurricular activities.
Award recipients: Louis Denison and Sophia Schoenbeck
(Pictured: Student leadership awards recipients for 2025 pose for a group photo.)
About Nichols College
Nichols College has earned business accreditation from the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), the longest serving global accrediting body for business schools and the largest business education network connecting learners, educators, and businesses worldwide. Founded in 1815, Nichols College transforms today’s students into tomorrow’s leaders through a dynamic, career-focused business and professional education. Nichols offers real-world learning focused on professional depth – combined with vibrant living, competitive athletics, and an unmatched alumni advantage – equipping students to exceed their own expectations. To learn more about Nichols College, visit www.nichols.edu.
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