Nickesse Dawson

Nickesse "Nick" Dawson is a multi-talented professional who brings a unique and compassionate perspective to his roles as Math Teacher, Coordinator of Cultural Awareness, and Nest Pod Leader. His diverse background, which includes criminal justice, mental health, and community advocacy, allows him to connect with students on a deeper level and foster a truly inclusive and supportive educational environment. Nick holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, Corrections & Rehabilitation from Shaw University and has extensive experience working with at-risk youth.

Before transitioning into education, Nick built a career dedicated to helping others, serving as a Mental Health Clinician, Juvenile Justice Officer, and Adult Career Counselor. His tenure as a Case Manager for Wraparound Maryland, where he developed expertise in case management, crisis intervention, and person-centered planning, informs his holistic approach to student support. In addition to his work at Radcliffe, he is a dedicated community leader, co-founding both Dawson Educational Services, a tutoring program for local children, and the Chestertown Fatherhood Initiative, a men's group focused on personal and community development.

As the newly appointed Case Manager for The Shelter Alliance, a local nonprofit aiming to establish Kent County’s first year-round homeless shelter, Nick will apply his decade of experience in mental health, counseling, and community service to help clients rebuild stability. He also shares his leadership skills as the Head Coach for the Centreville Middle School Boy's Basketball team and enjoys exploring the Eastern Shore with his wife on his electric bike.