Lasallian Founder's Alumni Award: Distinguished Alumni, David Nyikos

May 26, 2023

From the Bishop Kelley Class of 1991.

David Nyikos is a distinguished alumnus with extensive experience in International Security and Military Operations. His worldview is vast, and he’s used his expertise to create a safer, more secure tomorrow. His work has proved his ability as a leader and model of dedication and courage.


After graduating from Bishop Kelley in 1991, David attended the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado. Upon earning his bachelor’s degree in Engineering Sciences, he completed pilot training at the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training and F-15 follow-on training. With the training, David flew F-15 jets in Virginia and Alaska and acted as a forward air controller at Ft. Campbell in Kentucky. Upon earning his Master of Science in Engineering Management from the Air Force Institute of Technology, he was selected as a Service Chiefs’ Intern at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. He commanded a squadron in San Antonio and led men and women in ground and air combat in Afghanistan and over Iraq. He returned to school and earned his Master of Arts in Political and Military Sciences at the Royal Belgian Military Academy. He then worked as a representative for the Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman at the NATO Headquarters. He served as Director of the Joint Air Component Coordination Element and Chief of Staff of the NATO Air Component Afghanistan before returning to the United States as the Deputy Director of Operations at Air Combat Command.


David successfully led military squadrons to receive awards as the best air superiority squadron and the best support squadron in the Air Force. David is the current Chief of Defense Cooperation for the United States Air Force at the U.S. Embassy in The Hague, The Netherlands, coordinating security cooperation activities between the Department of Defense and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.


Beyond his professional positions, David has found time to volunteer across the country and the world. He’s coached basketball for the non-profit Upwards Sports and has found opportunities to serve in each school his children have attended. David Nyikos has found a balance between serving his country, maintaining an incredibly successful career, and building a strong family with an enduring marriage.


David’s intrinsic motivation to serve others and leave the world a better place than he found has led to his successes and ultimate recognition today.


Lasallian Founder’s Alumni Award

Recognizing the accomplishments of Outstanding Bishop Kelley Alumni who exemplify the five core principles of the Lasallian Mission; Faith in the Presence of God, Quality Education, Concern for the Poor & Social Justice, Respect for All Persons & Inclusive Community.


If you know a deserving BK Alumni, please nominate them here:

https://www.bishopkelley.org/alumni#LasallianFoundersAlumniAwardsNominationForm

June 16, 2025
Click here for 2024-2025 Q4 A Honor Roll Click here for 2024-2025 Q4 B Honor Roll Stellar work, Comets!
May 1, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tulsa, OK — Bishop Kelley High School is proud to announce the hiring of Seana Stoia '13 as the new Head Coach of the Girls Basketball program. Coach Stoia brings a wealth of experience in both playing and coaching at multiple levels. She has held elite coaching roles with PWP AAU and Team Griffin, coached collegiately at Loras College and University of Wisconsin–Whitewater and played collegiately for the University of Dallas following a standout career as a Bishop Kelley Comet. Most recently, she has served as an assistant coach for Bishop Kelley’s Girls Basketball and Volleyball teams while also teaching Theology. Known for her player-first mentality and commitment to fundamentals, Stoia has helped shape some of the most competitive youth and high school talent in the Tulsa area. “Coach Stoia has been a major part of the resurgence of BK girls basketball over the past three years that culminated in a trip to the 5A State Tournament this year,” said Bishop Kelley Athletic Director Lance Parks. “She has a tremendous work ethic coupled with a passion for the game of basketball that will elevate all levels of the girls basketball program at Bishop Kelley.” In addition to her basketball expertise, Stoia has deep roots in the Bishop Kelley community as an educator and mentor. Her dedication to developing student-athletes on and off the court makes her an ideal leader for the program’s next chapter. Stoia will assume her role immediately, leading off-season training and preparing the Comets for an exciting 2025–2026 season. About Bishop Kelley School Bishop Kelley School is a Catholic diocesan high school located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, which focuses on preparing students' hearts and minds for a purposeful life, for college and beyond. Founded in 1960, the school offers a rigorous academic curriculum, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a deep commitment to spiritual formation. Bishop Kelley strives to educate the whole person, empowering students to become responsible, faith-filled leaders in their communities.