In 25 years of working with Christian University Chapel speakers, I can count on one hand the number of women who have touched the hearts of students the way Nicole Braddock did during her visit. The way Lori Salierno can challenge students to go beyond their comfort zone and serve the Lord, Nicole can bring students to that place in their personal lives where they are ready for that challenge. Speaking out of incredible authenticity, with compassion, clarity, sensitivity and grace; Nicole opened up damaged hearts with the skill of a surgeon and brought a powerful word of hope and peace in Jesus Christ. If I can have her back to Spring Arbor every year, I will. Christian University students NEED to hear Nicole Braddock Bromley. --Ron Kopicko, University Chaplain, Spring Arbor University, MI

Nicole's visit to our campus was a great blessing to both students and staff. She not only spoke in chapel but met with students one-on-one, led an evening session, and met with our Student Development staff. I was particularly impressed with her ability to graciously and appropriately answer questions on this topic and add depth to our understanding. It was truly an educational experience for all. The only thing I would change next time she comes is to have her stay longer.    --Dr. Carol Harding, Dean of Residence Life, Moody Bible Institute, IL

Nicole Braddock Bromley just concluded two exciting days of ministry with our students.  She connects with her audience, is very engaging, personal, and warm.  Nicole describes her journey in a way that allows students to identify with her ... and was available to meet with them (for hours) following the chapels.  We appreciated her focus on the amazing power of the Holy Spirit to bring about healing and forgiveness.
--Ron Hafer, University Chaplain, Biola University, CA

Prepare to be blown away! --Bill Bemis, Resident Director, Bethel College, IN

"SHARP" That is the word that best describes Nicole, her message, and her ministry. I have been in youth ministry for over 10 years and I have never seen someone her age capture the attention and heart of students like Nicole did. Her love for Christ and people is clearly evident by just being around her. Her story of heartache, healing and forgiveness is one of need and importance for students of our culture today. God has anointed Nicole with a wonderful speaking ability and character that will impact all those she encounters. She is a blessed young woman and I know God is going to continue to use her to do more incredible things for the kingdom.
--Jason Mossman, Pastor to Families with Teenagers, Columbus, OH

I am pleased to commend Nicole Braddock Bromley and her OneVOICE ministry as a resource for college and university campuses.  Nicole
brings a message of help, hope, and healing for people, like herself, who have suffered childhood sexual abuse.  Her telling of a pilgrimage
through pain combines an honest understanding of hurt with a realistic appreciation for recovery.  Without resorting to cookie-cutter
prescriptions, Nicole's ministry is redemptive and holistic, offering assistance to sufferers as well as the friends of sufferers.
-- Dr. Stephen B. Kellough, Chaplain, Wheaton College, IL

Nicole Bromley treated us to the most wonderful "Take Back The Night" we have ever had. Most often I feel drained and slightly depressed about the magnitude of the damage sexual abuse has caused in the lives of so many people, but Nicole's positive outlook framed in her personal faith makes all the difference and left us feeling upbeat and hopeful following a very full day of TBTN activities. Words really can't express the gratitude I feel for how generously Nicole gave of herself to our students, staff and community. I see God at work through her - and I think maybe that's just about the highest compliment I can give a person.
-- Gretchen H. Maust, Take Back The Night Coordinator, Social Work and Sociology Dept, Eastern Mennonite University, VA

Nicole brings a unique combination of personal experience, a polished delivery, and relatability to college students that proved very successful to our audience at Colgate.  Students in Greek organizations can benefit from her program because silencing is a common and unfortunate alternative to distress.  Nicole, however, proved the rewards of breaking that silence: confronting poor behavior, seeking supportive help, and healing to make a powerful difference for others.  She is welcome back to campus anytime!

-- Tim Mansfield, Assistant Dean of Student Affairs and Director of Greek Letter Operations, Colgate University, NY

As a former athlete, Collegiate football coach, current pastor, and FCA leader, I cannot write enough about Nicole's ability to connect! GOD has anointed her with the ability to touch all groups. The greatest challenge in communication is to reach everyone regardless of context. Most speakers, and I mean most, are only effective in certain situations. Without a doubt, she soars in settings where people come from varied backgrounds!
Why? Her story not only affects the one who has been sexually abused, but confronts and challenges us ALL! As you hear what GOD says through her, you will be grateful she is on our team. She's a can't miss!
-- Jon Davis, Senior Pastor of Summit Church (Charleston, SC) and FCA Director, Charleston Southern University, SC

The Lord has His hand on Nicole's life, no doubt about it...We've only seen the beginning!  Her courage in telling her story will continue to help many other victims of abuse finally find healing.

-- Roger Basick, Senior Announcer, WMBI 90.1FM, Moody Broadcasting Network

Nicole impacted our students tremendously. Our counselor was inundated with students seeking help after her message. It is a difficult topic, but one that obviously needs to be dealt with, and she did so with candor and vulnerability. Her presentation was tasteful, appropriate, informative and gripping…the chapel has never been so silent for a speaker. Nicole had the students with her the entire time.
--Carl Creedon, Campus Pastor/Associate Dean of Students, San Diego Christian College, CA

I have never heard such an amazing speaker at our school. Everyone listened to her because she is young and she is real.  I can't imagine doing what she does in front of 2500 high schoolers...Nicole is totally my hero!

--Student, Kettering Fairmont High School, OH

Nicole's presentation was a wonderful gift to our campus. Because this is a more prevalent problem than what many have thought, it is imperative that we find ways to address this issue. Her presentation is powerful but not overly dramatic, personal but appropriate, clear and compelling.
--Larry Nikkel, President, Tabor College, KS

The discussion session for women was so good.  Nicole answered our questions with honesty and humor. I know I wasn't the only one who walked away with so much more hope and understanding of issues that many of us were afraid to talk about before today.  Nicole's visit to our campus will not be forgotten.  We needed this!

--Student, George Fox University, OR

The students at my school tend to be very critical about chapel speakers...But believe me when I tell you what a large impact Nicole had on the student body. While chapel is a time where I see much reading, sleeping, and anything-but-listening going on, I swear you could hear a pin drop with the intensity of the silence during Nicole's message. We are used to middle-aged, distinguished, highly-respected Caucasian men coming to speak about topics that make them sound smart. For Nicole to come in, as a woman barely older than most of us, and tackle a subject so unheard of on campus was a breath of fresh air.  

Nicole's visit to our campus was so amazing- never before have I heard a chapel so talked about afterward.

Thank you so much for your message, Nicole!  

--Stephanie, Student, Wheaton College, IL

Nicole Braddock has a powerful story and she tells it well.
--Dr. Rob Currie, Professor of Psychology, Judson College, IL & Author of Hungry for More of God

Riveting! You’re strong and resilient and connecting. Clearly from the feedback, you were the highlight of the day!
--Mary Marcdante, Professional Speaker & Author of My Mother, My Friend and Living With Enthusiasm! The 21-day Smile Diet, San Diego, CA

[Nicole is] an amazing, vulnerable, and compassionate presenter.
--Elaine Moyer, Principal, Christopher Dock Mennonite High School, PA

One of the most captivating things about Nicole Braddock’s speech…was the quality of the silence. Braddock, a survivor of sexual abuse, spoke on the issue with clarity, courage, and honesty; the air was so quiet you would have heard a fly land on the podium.
--Miranda Puckett, Senior Writer for Roanoke College Magazine, VA

What Nicole is able to do in convocation to bring the students into focus to a real issue in our world today is amazing. She hit a home run!

-- Coach Chuck Kelly, Offensive Line Coach for Charleston Southern University Football, SC

Nicole gave a wonderfully poised and important talk...She is a naturally engaging speaker and her humor and humanity does wonders in helping the audience face the nature of this issue. She clearly connected with our students and the dialogue on the topic continued in classes and informally between friends. The awareness that Nicole raises is invaluable, but most importantly she is a life-ring to those out there who she quite accurately notes are suffering silently.
--Mike Gengras, Asst. Dean of Students, North Yarmouth Academy, ME

As a professor, it is sometimes difficult to initiate a dialogue about sexual abuse and sexual issues. Nicole's honest, direct, and personal story provided information, inspiration, and the impetus for starting this important dialogue on our campus. She is an inspirational, engaging, articulate, and beautiful young woman. Having such outstanding young person visit our campus was motivational and encouraging to others and I hope we have the opportunity for visits with Nicole in the future.
--Tami Eggleston, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Psychology, McKendree College, IL

Nicole is simply outstanding!

…I strongly believe that education and prevention programs are the key elements to reducing the incidences of rape and sexual assault on college campuses. Nicole is a dedicated speaker who presents these programs to students and student athletes. She has also assisted with developing and implementing training programs for faculty and staff, and has provided tailored programs for University Chapel Services.

Nicole uses her own shocking life story to open the eyes of her audience to the actual experiences of victims of sexual assault/abuse.  She is also able to connect with the hearts and minds of young men and women and college faculty that don’t see sexual assault as a reality. Her audiences learn the appropriate way to respond to victims and accused students involved in cases of sexual assault. More importantly, her audience learns how to avoid becoming a victim and/or being accused of sexual assault. Our students continue to stay connected with Nicole well after she has left the campus.

…Nicole Braddock Bromley is a conscientious person who is not afraid to discuss sensitive and complex sexual issues/concerns. She models and expects professionalism, and takes her responsibilities for sexual assault education and prevention very seriously. She also exhibits a great sense of humor and encourages an open exchange of ideas and solutions in her presentations. I feel extremely honored to recommend Nicole Braddock Bromley to you with the highest of enthusiasm.

- Kimberly M. Ferguson, Associate Dean of Students & Director of Judicial Affairs, Capital University, OH

...We could relate much more easily with Nicole, because of her young age...and similar background. The standing ovation she received from the entire chapel audience was an affirmation of the impression she had made on everyone in attendance.
--Jeremy Knapp, Senior Student-Athlete, Greenville College, IL

After reading some of the responses from the other schools you've spoken at, I can see that you've touched many lives. You'll have to add mine to the list. You told your story with courage and strength that I've never witnessed before. Every person in that audience could feel the passion you have for reaching out to young people. I had never been able to talk to anyone about what happened to me, until I walked into that room and heard you speak. You made yourself available and I felt extremely comfortable when talking to you. Thank you for being so willing to accept the calling that God has set before you.
--William Newell, Student, Concordia University, NE

I commend to you a young lady who recently spoke in our chapel and did an outstanding job. Her name is Nicole Braddock and I invited her to speak in our chapel this year on the issue of sexual abuse. I had heard and read about her testimony from other college referrals. After having her at PBU, I can heartily endorse her as a fine young lady who is useful to the Lord. Since sexual abuse is rampant in America, some statistics reporting now that 1 in 3 girls [and 1 in 6 boys] will be sexually abused, it is incredibly beneficial to have a godly young lady speak on this issue out of her own experience and testimony of God's healing in her life. She was extremely well received by our student body and used by the Lord to minister deeply to a number of our young people. Her presentation was discreet yet powerful and I plan to have her back to PBU. I encourage you to consider having her in your chapel. If you would like to speak to me about her ministry please don't hesitate to contact me at PBU. Thank you and may the Lord bless you as we serve Him together in the gospel.
--Tom Allen, Chairman of the Undergraduate Biblical Division & University Chaplain, Philadelphia Biblical University, PA

Numerous students have since thanked me for bringing [Nicole] to the college. Nicole’s honest and sensitive retelling of her story has opened the pathways for students to talk about their experiences and shown them that resilience and faith can conquer even the most devastating of circumstances.
--Christine DeGregorio, M.Ed., Peer Ed., Berkshire Community College, MA

Despite her young age, Nicole has much to teach us, not only about how to turn a negative into a positive, but how to make a difference in the lives of others. She presents the topic in such a dynamic way…it is real, yet sensitive, while sharing absolutely nothing graphic in nature...her visit to Country Day was empowering to all of us.
--Dr. Naomi Schatz, Wellness Coordinator, La Jolla Country Day School, CA

Nicole tremendously impacted our campus, and the entire student body. Weeks later, her message and visit continue to leave an impression here.
--Linsey Barnett, Olivet Nazarene University, IL

Nicole's presentation was clear, honest, and compelling. Her story, and the way she presented herself, was a blessing to our campus. Sexual abuse is too often either pushed under the rug or dismissed as someone's own fault. Nicole brings it into the open, and then lovingly confronts the secrets and the pain.
--Howard Keim, Vice-President of Academic Affairs/Dean of Faculty, Tabor College, KS

Nicole has helped me so much. I heard her speak in chapel one day and have talked to her several times since. She gives me so much hope but most of all the encouragement I needed to find my own VOICE. Thank you Nicole, but most of all thank God.
Student, Judson College, IL

Up until today when Nicole spoke at my school, I thought [my town] was too small for anyone to make a difference. Nicole inspired me to reach out to others…She has given me the courage and confidence to go into the world and shine God’s light over the darkness!
--Brooke, 7th grader & FCA Member, Mount Vernon City Schools, OH

Nicole is a great speaker. Our auditorium has never been that quiet. You could have heard a pin drop…”
--Female Student, University of Evansville, IN

Although I have not been a victim of sexual abuse, I was very moved. Nicole was the most powerful speaker I have heard all year, or maybe in all my time at Waynesburg.
--Kari Wildner, Junior Communication major, Waynesburg College, PA

You were the best speaker at Campbell University so far in my three years here…
--Male Student, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC

...I only wish the school would have brought in a speaker like Nicole, earlier, when I was a freshman…I might have opened up and been helped much sooner...I might not have gone through as much pain…Nicole has encouraged me to make a difference and has given me a vision and passion for my life and career.
--Anna Dyke, Senior, Huntington College, IN

It’s amazing to see how God is using Nicole to reach so many people. Nicole made me aware of the reality of sexual abuse and rape in all communities, for both guys and girls, and made me feel comfortable as a male in the audience. She emphasized how important God has been in what she calls her ‘triumph over tragedy,’ and how it is because of Him that she is able to heal. Nicole’s presentation was inspiring, and an amazing story of the power of God in her life.
--Blake Buhrman, Male Student, Tabor College, KS

As a professional speaker, Nicole is known for her sensitivity and emotional way of connecting with students. We were fortunate to witness that. Nicole spoke to our students with such eloquence and bravery. We were very impressed with Nicole’s compassion for sharing her message. Her desire to confront the issue of sexual abuse has brought encouragement to many and healing to others. Our students listened with much anticipation and were very moved by her story.
--Phil Lee, Principal, Selma Middle School, Selma, NC

You did wonderful work here, Nicole. Many lives were touched. The students who sought counseling immediately following our chapel service are testament to the 'safe harbor' you helped us create here. Thank you so very much for showing others that they can confront their past (and present) and overcome.
--Reverend Carl H. King, Chaplain, Columbia College, SC

You are an excellent speaker and your young age makes it seem so much more real…You will undoubtedly continue to touch lives wherever you go. I cannot thank you enough for what you have done for me.
--Student, Brenau University, Gainesville, GA

Thank you for using your amazing sense of strength and honesty to reach out to others who have experienced this and other kinds of abuse. I appreciate your straightforwardness and obvious friendliness where I have seen others utilize dramatics and false display of emotions to tell a story. I know that you have touched lives and will continue to do so...
--Naomi Crawford, Senior, California Baptist University, CA

…you were honest and open…Your words influenced me to bring these issues to the front of my mind and deal with them, so that I might be a healthy adult. If you hadn’t come to our school last month, I probably would have fallen into the same trap with bad decisions and relationships. Thank you! You changed my life.
--Student, Ashland University, OH

Thank you so Much!! Thank you for coming to North Central and contributing yourself to this incredible community! Since you have been gone, your name has come up in numerous conversations. I know that many are facing up to some of their past experiences, similar to yours, and being set free!
--Jessie, Student, North Central University, MN

Your strength is an inspiration…I'll never forget you, or the incredible difference that you've made in my life.
--Student, Hope International University, Fullerton, CA

You are awesome! I am so glad my school brought you here…I'll never ever forget you. YOU ARE MY HERO!
--Student, Village Christian School, Sun Valley, CA

Dear Ms. Braddock,

Your presentation at Vanguard University on March 11, 2003 deeply affected those of us who were in attendance. Weeks later, students continue to speak of Nicole Braddock’s candid, courageous, and effective talk on her experiences of sexual abuse in childhood. As a sociologist who specializes in family abuse (teaching, studying, and speaking), I am especially grateful for your message and grateful to God for the messenger. I would like to encourage you to continue presenting your story at schools, universities, churches and conferences.
Over the years, I have heard many personal testimonies by survivors of child sexual abuse and other forms of interpersonal violence in contexts both professional and personal. I have read numerous articles and books on the topic and my first scholarly publication focused on child sexual abuse (“Exchange Theory and the Child Sexual Abuse Accommodation Syndrome,” Journal of Interpersonal Violence 11, 1996). Thus I have extensive understanding of the incidence, prevalence, dynamics, and impact of this most intimate form of maltreatment. I listened with a critical ear as you began your story in a clear, calm, yet resolute voice. My estimation of you grew with every sentence as your painful and powerful story unfolded. Your approach was exactly as I would have wished. The up-to-date statistics you provide help the audience understand the scope and seriousness of the problem and perhaps will compel many to become involved. By placing your experience of child sexual abuse in the broader social context, rather than limiting it to “one person’s story,” you educate your audience and aid them in identifying common processes that accompany this type of violation—the victim’s silence, fear, shame, and confusion along with the perpetrator’s manipulation, abuse of power, and exploitation of an innocent child. Your self-preservation allows young people to identify with you and realize that sexual abuse could happen to anyone and in any home. Your example brings hope to survivors and helps them to better understand what they experienced. As you face the pain, betrayal, and trauma of your stepfather’s violation, you model the pathway to healing and remove the stigma that so often comes with sexual abuse.
Perhaps these comments will further illustrate your strong and positive effect on students. “The way she presented her story caught my attention immediately and I could not take my eyes off of her as she told f her childhood.” “The fact that Nicole is able to share these events in her life makes her a hero to all innocent victims of incest.” “She is an awesome woman of God. God is using her tragic story to prevent more of this abuse from happening; she will reach many young people with her real life story.”
Thank you, Nicole, for coming to Vanguard University. Hopefully, we will see you here regularly.

Sincerely,
Elizabeth D. Leonard, Ph.D.
Department of Anthropology/Sociology