Nikki has been named one of the Wisconsin state female finalists for the prestigious High School Heisman Award. "To be eligible for this award, students exhibit excellence in academics, athletics, and community/school leadership. The Wendy's High School Heisman award is known for being one of the most prestigious awards at the high school level. The award encourages future leadership by recognizing well-balanced lifestyles at an early age," according to www.thejournaltimes.com.

Not only are Nikki's accomplishments on the field, but she also has an impressive record off the field. Nikki is a member of both the National Honor Society and the High Honor Roll. She has a GPA of 4.06 and has been Student of the Month. Nikki also has earned perfect school attendance.

Head Women's Soccer Coach, Patrick Gilliam, commented: ""Nikki is a tremendous addition to our TIU campus community and the Lady Trojan Women's Soccer Program.  Her recognition as a Top Ten Wendy's Heisman High School Finalist in the State of Wisconsin is a true testimony to the well-rounded excellence she will bring to our team---both on and off of the field.  I am excited to hear of her decision to attend Trinity and look forward to the opportunity and privilege to serve as her coach."

The Trojan Soccer Team is looking forward to the newest member to sign with the team and anticipates a great future with her.

Jessica is a senior at Dubuque Hempstead High School. She has had eleven years of experience playing soccer, seven of those years playing club. She played four years with the Dubuque Soccer Club and three years with the Rockford Dactyls Club. She has been a three year varsity starter for her high school team and was awarded all-conference honorable mention in 2008, along with all-conference first team and all state honorable mention in 2009.   

Jessica's strive to succeed is not only on the pitch. Off the pitch, Jessica is ranked fifth in a class of 467 students. She has a 4.2 GPA, earned an ACT score of 34, and won the AMC-10 (American Math Competition) as a sophomore. Jessica is a member of the National Honor Society, DAYLC (Dubuque Area Youth Leadership Council) member and named one of the top five leaders of the 100+ participating students, received the National Merit Scholarship letter of commendation, was named to the Gold Honor Roll, is actively involved in her church youth group and helps with the middle school youth group, and has participated in two summer missions trips to New Orleans.

Head Coach Patrick Gilliam commented, "I am extremely excited about Jessica's decision to attend Trinity.  In nearly 15 years of collegiate coaching, she is one of the strongest overall student-athletes we have ever signed. She brings to our program a well-rounded excellence that goes far beyond just the soccer field.  At the same time, her strong soccer background as a high-level club and Olympic Development Program player will enable her to make an immediate impact within our team.  I look forward to the opportunity to coach her and hopefully play a part in her overall development as a student, athlete, and Christian young woman."

TIU women's soccer looks forward to bringing in a great class for the next season, which is evident in this signing.