New Philanthropic Partnership Announced The Cape Cod Foundation and The Joshua A. Nickerson Society Collaborate for Good

The Cape Cod Foundation and The Joshua A. Nickerson Society have formed a new partnership to continue to honor individuals who have made a positive impact within the Cape Cod community. 

The Society was established in 1982 in memory of Joshua A. Nickerson 2nd.  The Chatham native ventured to Cambridge to earn a bachelor’s degree from Harvard College in 1922, then returned to the Cape, where he lived his entire life. He worked within the Nickerson Lumber Company for 53 years and retired as chairman of the board in 1975. Throughout his life, Nickerson played an integral part in the development and preservation of many local institutions, such as the Cape Cod Hospital, Cape Playhouse, and Cape Cod National Seashore. 

“My father was deeply connected to the entire Cape,” said Jan Nickerson. “He believed that, whether you live in Bourne, Provincetown, or any of the towns in between, we are all part of a much larger community. Because of this, our future depends on our devotion to civic duties and our ability to solve whatever problems we face together.”

For more than three decades, the Society has presented its annual award to an individual who embodies Joshua Nickerson’s commitment to the well-being and welfare of the people of Cape Cod.  Thirty-two recipients, who have made lasting contributions in the areas of conservation, arts, science, education, health, and democracy, have received this honorary award to date. 

The Society will now become a permanent program of The Cape Cod Foundation, which will use its experience and resources to champion Nickerson’s legacy and promote the award within the community.  The Society’s current trustees will serve as the Advisory Council that will review and recommend recipients annually.

“The Society and the Foundation have a long-standing history,” said Kristin O’Malley, Foundation President and CEO.  “Our philanthropic missions align, and we have often collaborated in various capacities over the years. We are honored to help continue Mr. Nickerson’s legacy.”

The 2018 recipient will be formally announced on June 18 in conjunction with the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce’s annual meeting. Oscar Nickerson, Joshua’s father, was one of the founding members of the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce in 1921.

“The people who have received this award have accomplished so much for this community.  In addition, like Joshua, they have inspired us and others to continue to do what we can to make Cape Cod an incredible place to live,” said Brooks Thayer, Immediate Past President of the Society.