At a glance
Justin Dix, an instructor in the electrical construction and maintenance electrician program, and Jon Nickerson, director of facilities, were the recipients of the Leadership through Civic Engagement award.
Justin Dix, an instructor in the electrical construction and maintenance electrician program, and Jon Nickerson, director of facilities, were the recipients of the Leadership through Civic Engagement award.
The award is given annually by the College Council is presented to acknowledge students, faculty, and staff who have led or initiated exemplary academic and/or co-curricular initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to engaging in the community— locally, nationally, or globally—through service, volunteerism, activism, politics, and much more.
Dix is community minded in and outside the classroom. On campus, he has voluntarily assumed leadership roles within his department and provides guidance and direction to his colleagues. He acts as a liaison and manages supply needs. He is a faculty mentor with Northland’s high school partnerships and is involved in numerous committees.
This past winter, he led a group of students from the Northland campus on a disaster relief trip to Fort Myers, FL. The group worked on projects in partnership with All Hands & Hearts aiding the recovery from Hurricane Ian.
In the community, Justin has a long history of community involvement through volunteering, creating, and organizing fundraisers. He has been involved in multiple animal rescue organizations, Habitat for Humanity in Silver Creek, and the Hamburg Monarchs Youth Soccer Organization. He has also created and organized a trail run fundraiser for the Forestville Fire Department and has served on the Forestville town board.
Nickerson is a great example of a community man. He grew up in the area, is a father, husband, and a grandfather that is highly engaged in the local community.
On our campus, he has been active and encourages his staff to be active in events like the community Trick or Treat and the holiday family celebration. He and his wife attend numerous events during the holiday season as “special guests” to bring joy and excitement to the younger generation.
He continues his community service in his community. He is a member of the Scio Central School Board, the Scio Lions Club, and works closely with local veterans through the Morrison Hayes Legion Post. He has also held leadership roles within Cub Scouts, serves on the Fairlawn Cemetery Board, is on the town assessment review board, and is an avid supporter of Allegany County Cancer Services.
Nickerson has coached local youth and high school sports for over fifteen years. On top of coaching, he has served in leadership positions within the Scio Youth Athletic Committee.
His secret holiday persona has brought smiles to the faces of hundreds of children in the local community over the last 20 years. He has appeared in parades, Shop with a Cop events, and even made an appearance on national television.
He was previously recognized for his service by being named the Scio Citizen of the Year in 2017
Dix and Nickerson were honored during the college’s end of year recognition luncheon.