Staff Member Honored by the Congregation of Holy Cross

Rhonda Nickley, office manager of student financial assistance, was recently named a recipient of the 2023 Spirit of Holy Cross Award.  

Issued by the Congregation of Holy Cross, United States Province of Priests and Brothers, this honor is given annually to lay colleagues who faithfully embody Gospel values. The award shines a light on the critical role that they play in making God known, loved and served, just as Holy Cross founder Blessed Basil Moreau did throughout his life. 

“I am truly humbled and honored to receive the Spirit of Holy Cross Award,” Nickley said. “As Blessed Basil Moreau stated, ‘With eyes of Faith consider the greatness of your mission and the wonderful amount of good you can accomplish.’ I am forever grateful for the C.S.C. priests who devoutly celebrate Mass every day for our community.” 

Nickley has worked at Stonehill College since 1996. She regularly helps students and families navigate the complexities of college access and affordability. She is known for exuding kindness and being supportive of others, no matter their reason for seeking her help.  

“Rhonda excels at her job, not because of the tasks she completes or the way she manages a variety of requests and demands, but because of her persistent commitment to lead with kindness in everything she does. She exudes this trait daily through her actions in ways that challenge others to be better,” said William Smith, assistant vice president of student financial assistance. 

Nickley is also an active member of Stonehill’s spiritual community. Many mornings, she can be found attending Mass in Donahue Hall before heading to work.  

In recognition of all that she does to help uplift others, Rhonda recently attended a celebration held on Monday, January 30 at Holy Cross Family Ministries. Joined by members of her family, including her son Joseph Nickley ’05, she received a proclamation of gratitude given by the Congregation of Holy Cross.  

“Congratulations to Rhonda on this tremendous honor. I thank her for her continued dedication to the Holy Cross mission, as well as her incredible impact on the work we do in service of students,” said Rev. John Denning, C.S.C., president of Stonehill College.