Nicklas Brings Deep Campus Connections to Residence Life
NCTA’s new Residence Life Manager comes to the position with experience working with college students, years of service in the Curtis community and a family connection to the campus that spans generations.
Brian Nicklas grew up in Pleasant Dale, Nebraska, and earned bachelor’s degrees in Christian Education and Pastoral Ministries from Grace University in Omaha. While in college, he served as both a Resident Assistant and Resident Director.
Following college, Nicklas and his wife, Clover, spent six years serving as missionaries in Europe. For the past 17 years, he has served as pastor of Berean Bible Church in Curtis.
“After serving in full-time ministry for most of my life, I am excited to continue to impact lives among an age group I enjoy, on a campus that is dear to my heart, and in a community I love,” Nicklas said.
That connection to NCTA spans generations. His mother attended the University of Nebraska School of Agriculture, his father graduated from the University of Nebraska School of Technical Agriculture, and his grandparents were alumni and instructors. His three sons have also worked at NCTA, and his oldest son, Nathan, previously served as Residence Life Manager.
In his new role, Nicklas hopes to help students find their own sense of connection and belonging at NCTA.
“We all need connection, to feel like we belong, that we know we have a place and can contribute, and that includes on a college campus,” he said.
As a father who has sent three sons to college, Nicklas also understands the importance of providing students with a safe, comfortable and fun “home away from home.”
This year, he hopes Residence Life will help students build community, develop their character and further discover their calling. Working alongside NCTA’s Resident Assistants will be an important part of creating an environment where students feel welcome, supported and connected.
For students nervous about living away from home for the first time, Nicklas encourages them to embrace the experience.
“Leaving home for the first time can be a scary experience for both students and parents,” he said. “However, this launching out is a vital part of maturing and the beginning of an exciting journey.”
Ultimately, Nicklas hopes students form lifelong friendships and someday look back on their time at NCTA as one of the great experiences of their lives.
Outside of work, Nicklas and Clover enjoy walking around campus and Curtis and spending time with their three sons. They have also enjoyed racing homing pigeons and, more recently, raising chickens.
The Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) in Curtis is a two-year institution within the University of Nebraska system, dedicated to developing the next generation of agricultural professionals and veterinary technicians. NCTA offers specialized programs in Animal Science, Agronomy, Ag Equipment, Agribusiness Management, Agricultural Education, Equine Industry Management, and Veterinary Technology—all grounded in a practical, career-focused approach to learning.