ALUMNI PROFILE
Priory Alumnus S H A R E S FA I T H A N D L OV E F O R A L M A M AT E R Brother. Athlete. Student. Alumnus. Teacher. Coach. Administrator.
M
ike Nickolai ’03 has worn many hats at Saint Louis Priory School and made a great impact on the community.
Student At Priory “I first remember Mike as a friendly, eager-to-learn youngster at Priory soccer camp before he even began as a student,” says Priory Associate Director of College Counseling and Coach, John Mohrmann. “Later, I was fortunate to work with him in English class and in soccer. During his years as a student, he was a truly exceptional thinker and writer, demonstrating his creative gifts in countless ways. He excelled in creative writing in class; he wrote the scripts for STUCO skits; and he composed a full-length play for his senior exhibition.”
During his time as a student, Nickolai was about as involved as any student could be. He served as a STUCO officer and varsity soccer captain, and he also led in so many other more subtle ways, according to Mohrmann. “He was one of those rare students who struck just the right mix of seriousness and humor and managed to get along with all students and teachers, all while embracing the spiritual mission of the school. I truly believe Mike was the quintessential Priory student, and he has become the ideal teacher and administrator.” Nickolai says he loved being at Priory. “I even enjoyed the academic challenges. I developed my full potential at Priory. My friends from seventh and eighth grade Advisory are my friends to this day.”
A Lifelong Community of Support In May 2001, Nickolai and three classmates were in a serious car accident. He says the care that he and his family felt is something he will never forget. “The teachers, monks, and my friends and their families were there for us. This community supports you.” After graduating from Priory in 2003, Nickolai graduated from Washington University in St. Louis. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree double majoring in English literature and film studies, while also minoring in French. After his undergraduate studies, he worked in Washington, D.C., as a faculty member of a high school leadership program.
Mike Nickolai ’03 senior picture 4
