Monday, November 17, 2025
Nicole Weis Honored with Mayor’s Young Leader Award for Transformative Impact in Trauma Recovery and Resilience
We are pleased to announce that Nicole Weis, Director of Healing and Community Programs at the Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience at UCCS, has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Sports, Health & Wellness category in the Mayor’s Young Leader Awards in Colorado Springs. The award was presented at the annual ceremony on November 5th in recognition of outstanding emerging professionals under age 40 whose work elevates community well-being.
Celebrating Leadership and Healing
At UCCS, Nicole Weis is widely respected for her leadership of multiple programs within the Institute. She oversees the Veteran-focused Veterans Health and Trauma Clinic, the Milestones Resilience Care Center, and community-based trainings including the GRIT program and Trauma Training for Professionals. With both a Master’s in Clinical Psychology (trauma emphasis) and licensure as a professional and addiction counselor, she brings an exceptional combination of clinical expertise, research-informed practice, and community partnership.
“Reflecting on the past five years of my leadership journey, I’m deeply grateful for the growth, challenges, and opportunities that have shaped me,” Nicole said at the time of her nomination. “Being recognized for this journey is a true honor, and I’m excited to see what the next decade holds.”
Mayor Yemi Mobolade stated, “I am deeply proud and inspired by the excellence and heart displayed by this year’s winners and finalists. They represent the next generation of community-builders and changemakers whose leadership is already shaping Colorado Springs.” You can read more about the award and ceremony on the City of Colorado Springs website.
Why This Recognition Matters
Nicole Weis’s award highlights how the Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience is translating resilience research into real-world impact. By integrating evidence-based practices into educational, clinical, and community settings, the Institute advances trauma recovery, fosters psychological well-being, and strengthens communities. This honor reflects Nicole’s leadership and the Institute’s commitment to bridging science and human connection.
Moreover, by being recognized in the Sports, Health & Wellness category, Nicole signals that resilience is not only about surviving adversity—it is also about flourishing through active, holistic wellbeing across mind, body, and community.
Looking Ahead
As the award recipient, Nicole Weis joins a distinguished group of local changemakers. Her selection emphasizes the Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience’s growing influence in trauma-informed practices and community resilience training.
We look forward to the ways this recognition will enhance visibility of the Institute’s programs, deepen community partnerships, and expand the reach of resilience-building efforts—both locally and beyond.