In Memoriam: Dr. Nicoletta "Nicki" C. Nance
Associate Professor of Human Services and Psychology, Beacon College
March 16, 1948 — May 3, 2025
With profound sorrow, Beacon College announces the passing of Dr. Nicoletta “Nicki” C. Nance, associate professor of human services and psychology, beloved colleague, and champion for mental health and neurodiversity. Nance passed away on Saturday, leaving behind a legacy of extraordinary scholarship, mentorship, and compassion.
Nance joined the Beacon College faculty over a decade ago, bringing with her a wealth of clinical experience and academic insight. A licensed mental health counselor specializing in aging and geriatric issues, she spent 17 years operating her own practice, Nicki Betts, Inc., providing mental health and employee assistance services to individuals and organizations across Florida.
At Beacon, she taught courses such as adult aging and development, known for their academic rigor and deep humanity. Her work was instrumental in elevating Beacon’s mission to serve neurodivergent students, both through her teaching and her expert contributions to the college’s PBS television program, “A World of Difference: Embracing Neurodiversity.”
Nance was a prolific writer and contributor to the field. She authored chapters and editorial work in professional publications including the “Encyclopedia of Counseling Theories,” “Encyclopedia of Human Services and Diversity,” and “Techniques and Interventions for Substance Use Disorders.”
Her commentary was sought by major national media outlets such as Forbes, Glamour, U.S. News & World Report, and NBC-Los Angeles, and her thought-provoking op-eds appeared in The Chronicle of Higher Education.
Beyond her professional achievements, Nance was a gifted poet and fiction writer. Her creative works were published in Literature Today, Mystic Minds Magazine, and several literary anthologies. She approached storytelling with the same depth, clarity, and compassion that she brought to the classroom and counseling office.
Nance will be remembered by students and colleagues as a warm, thoughtful, and deeply committed educator who inspired confidence, curiosity, and self-acceptance.
“Nicki was more than a professor — she was a guiding light whose warmth, wisdom, and unwavering dedication shaped the lives of so many in our community,” said President George Hagerty. “Her gentle spirit and genuine care left a mark that will not fade with time. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.”
For her extraordinary service and commitment, Nance became one of the handful in the college’s history honored with the Beacon Medal in 2024.
Her passing is a tremendous loss to the Beacon community and to all who were fortunate to learn from her, work alongside her, or be guided by her counsel.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Buddy Nance, whom she married in March 2002.
In honoring Dr. Nicki Nance, we reflect on a life lived with purpose, grace, and an unyielding commitment to helping others thrive.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Nicki’s memory to the Beacon College Scholarship fund.