Tom Nicholas, a dear friend and colleague to many teachers and a former CEA leader, passed away on July 14.
Nicholas was a public education and student champion, serving as a school social worker in Manchester for many years. Prior to becoming a social worker, he taught elementary and middle school for 12 years. He held numerous union positions at the local, state, and national levels, including serving as CEA vice president and the Connecticut Education Foundation president for three years and CEA treasurer for six years. Nicholas held multiple leadership positions within the Manchester Education Association, including president and vice president. He served as an NEA Director for many years and an NEA RA delegate for more than two decades, where he was an active member of the LGBTQ Caucus.
“Tom understood that strong public schools and strong unions are key to achieving the American Dream,” says CEA President Kate Dias. “Tom worked closely with many local leaders and members and touched countless lives. He will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, and friendship. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Tom’s family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.”
Nicholas was inspired by his family’s advocacy and often spoke with pride about his parents, both teachers, and his grandfather, who was fired for his efforts to unionize his fellow railroad workers in the fight for better pay and safer working conditions. His family legacy shaped Nicholas’s lifelong commitment to union advocacy and standing up for educators and public education.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, July 23 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Tierney Funeral Home, 219 West Center Street, Manchester. A Celebration of Life Picnic will be held on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Tom’s home, 134 Hunter Road, Tolland, CT.
