Nicki Nance 1948-2025

Born March 16, 1948, in Pittsburgh, Pa., Nicki dedicated her life to understanding and uplifting the human experience. Over several decades, she worked tirelessly as a counselor and consultant, advocating for mental health awareness and neurodiversity education. She was a gifted educator who taught undergraduate, graduate and doctoral-level students who consistently praised her unique insight and “Nicki-isms,” which made even the most complex topics accessible and engaging. Known for being knowledgeable yet approachable — and always inspiring — she brought light into every space she entered.

Nicki’s professional accomplishments were matched only by her devotion to family. She is survived by her beloved husband, Buddy Nance; daughters, Katarina and Michelle Kapisoda, and their granddaughter, A’niyah; stepson, Kristopher, and his children, Alyssa (husband, Michael Soule, and their children, Archie, Micah, Ace and Macy), Alec (fiancee, Hailey, and their son, Aerick), Autumn and her son, Jace, and Addison; stepson, Jeff, his wife, Bridget, and their children, Jackson and Lincoln; stepson, Brian, his wife, Dorci, and their son, Maddox; stepson, Brett, his wife, Kayla, and their children, Zaide, Zandon, Zavery and Zyrin; stepson, Jason, and his children, Kylie, Jason Jr. and Khloe; and her dear cousin, Gina Popovich.

Dr. Nance’s spirit touched not only those closest to her but also countless friends, students and colleagues worldwide.

Her profound impact will continue through the many lives she influenced. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her and serve as a guiding light for future generations committed to empathy, learning and healing.

In lieu of a service or flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Nicki’s memory to the Beacon College Scholarship fund at bit.ly/4do5cIx.

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