NGLA extends its great appreciation to outgoing Conference Chair, Nicole Buckley. Nicole has dedicated seven years of volunteer service to NGLA, volunteering on the Student Staff Team, leading the Sponsorship Team, and serving on the Conference Leadership Team.
Nicole shares, “My involvement with NGLA has truly shaped both my personal and professional journey in ways I never could have imagined. I first attended the conference as an undergraduate student in Pittsburgh, and returning to that same city years later to help lead the conference team as Conference Chair was an incredibly full-circle and meaningful experience. From the moment I attended my first NGLA, I felt at home in this community, and that feeling inspired me to begin volunteering shortly after.
What started as a way to give back to students quickly became one of the most impactful experiences of my life. I had no idea when I first volunteered that NGLA would play such a major role in my career trajectory, leadership development, and support system. The relationships, mentorship, and opportunities I’ve gained through this organization have truly changed my life.
I am endlessly grateful to the volunteers, board members, speakers, and sponsors I’ve had the privilege of working closely with since 2021. Every person I’ve collaborated with has contributed to making this experience so special, and I could not have reached this point without their support, trust, and dedication to the Association.
Although this chapter as Conference Chair is coming to a close, I am so excited to continue my involvement with NGLA and return to Boston serving as Director of Marketing and Partnerships. I know the future of this organization is incredibly bright, and I cannot wait to continue supporting the mission, the students, and the community that gave me so much.”
Tom Murphy says, “Thank you for the countless hours, thoughtful leadership, and unwavering support you provided throughout the planning and execution of the conference. Your efforts played a vital role in making the 2026 NGLA Annual Conference an extraordinary success, and your impact on our community will be felt long after the event concluded."
NGLA is grateful for Nicole’s service to advance the Association.