NORTHBOROUGH, MASS. – Kutztown University head women's lacrosse coach Kristen Nicholson has been named one of two recipients of the 2025 Kristina Quigley Memorial Scholarship, presented by the Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA). The award recognizes coaches who embody Quigley's values of family, mentorship, and commitment to the sport.

Nicholson, now in her fifth season at the helm of the Golden Bears, shares this year's honor with Renee Miller, assistant coach at Robert Morris University. The scholarship was established in memory of former Seton Hill head coach Kristina Quigley, who tragically passed away in 2013. It allows recipients to bring their families to the IWLCA Annual Meeting, reflecting Quigley's legacy of uniting family and coaching.

For Nicholson, the recognition represents a deeply meaningful intersection of her personal and professional lives.

"Lacrosse has given me far more than a career—it's given me a life filled with purpose, love, and connection," Nicholson said. "This game led me to my husband, the father of our son Gavin, and to a community of lifelong friends who have become like family. Receiving the Kristina Quigley Scholarship is an incredible honor for me and my family. It's a gift of time—transforming what is usually time apart into a memory together that we'll never forget."

Since joining Kutztown in 2021, Nicholson has guided the program to record-breaking success. Under her leadership, the Golden Bears have posted back-to-back record-setting seasons, including the program's first PSAC Championship Game appearance and two consecutive NCAA Tournament berths. Her teams have produced 19 All-PSAC, 13 All-Region, and nine All-America selections during her tenure.

Nicholson's journey through the sport, first as an All-Conference student-athlete at FDU-Florham, then as a head coach at Moravian before arriving at KU, has been marked by her steady leadership, focus on growth, and dedication to building a family-centered culture.

"This scholarship allows me to bring together the two worlds I care most about—my family and my profession," Nicholson added. "Most importantly, it's a way to honor Kristina Quigley's legacy."

The Kristina Quigley Memorial Scholarship was created to honor Quigley's passion and impact on the women's lacrosse community. The 2025 IWLCA Convention will take place November 19–21 at the Tradewinds Resort in St. Petersburg, Florida, where Nicholson will attend alongside her husband and son.