DUDLEY, Mass. (3/7/2026) – The Nichols College Division of Athletics and Interim Director of Athletics Kristan Mallet announced Jacque Rivera as the next head coach of the women's basketball program on Thursday morning.
"Jacque understands the Nichols experience and the type of student-athletes who thrive here," said Mallet. "His ability to recruit, build meaningful relationships, and establish a competitive culture centered on accountability and excellence will be instrumental as we continue to move the women's basketball program forward."
Rivera also brings significant athletics administration experience, most recently serving as Director of Athletics at Marianapolis Preparatory School in Thompson, Connecticut. His background includes roles with the South End Community Center, The MacDuffie School, The Woodstock Academy, and Elms College, his alma mater. Rivera also served as a prep basketball coach at both The MacDuffie School and Woodstock Academy.
"I am elated to serve as the Head Coach of the Nichols College Women's Basketball Program," said Rivera. "This position is not one that I take lightly or have a disregard for the responsibility for which it comes with. I am aware of the program's success and intend to chart Nichols women's basketball into new heights. With a strong belief in the Nichols brand, a goal to be intentional in all that we do, unwavering campus support, and the awareness of the all the opportunities in front us as a program, there is no doubt nothing will stand in our way of respecting, representing and competing at the highest level."
A native of Thompson, Connecticut, Rivera earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Elms College, Class of 2009, before earning a Master of Education degree in Educational Leadership from Elms in 2014. Rivera also has a Doctor of Education degree for Leadership and Supervision, which he received from American International College in 2023.
Rivera becomes the 23rd head coach in program history after serving as an assistant coach during the 2025–26 season, helping guide the Bison to a 13–12 overall record and a 6–12 conference mark. He assumes the role effective immediately.
