​Nicholas (Nick) RiDell Kelson, (minister) is a native of Warren, Ohio, born on May 20, 1979, to Evonne (Freeman) Kelson and the late Riley Kelson.

Upon graduating from Warren G. Harding High School in 1997, Nick attended Hiram College, where he participated in athletics and various clubs such as Elementary Tutoring, Students Organized Against Racism (SOAR), and Gospel Choir, while earning a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science in 2001. Following graduation, Nick began his career at Progressive Insurance in Mayfield, Ohio, where he has held various Information Technology positions including IT Support, IT Project Management, and IT Manager for the past 24 years. Currently, Nick serves as an IT Manager within the Commercial Lines organization, overseeing a talented group of Application Developers and Analysts focused on delivering business and customer value.

Nick has been an active member of the church from a young age, being added to the body of Christ through baptism in 1991. He began preaching during youth programs and gained invaluable experience in church leadership under the mentorship of the minister and elders. His dedication and spiritual growth led to his ordination as a Deacon in 2004, followed by his ordination as an Elder in 2007. In 2015, Nick was ordained as a minister of the East Side Church of Christ with the support of his family, church members, and leadership. On January 6, 2019, he began serving as the senior minister of the East Side Church of Christ in Warren, Ohio, succeeding the late Brother Ronald P. Fowlis, who faithfully served as minister for 54 years.

Guided by II Corinthians 4:2,5 — "(2) But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. (5) For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake" — Nick strives to live by these principles, serving the Lord and his congregation with humility and dedication.

Under his leadership, the East Side Church of Christ has strengthened its commitment to community engagement and outreach. Nick has spearheaded several initiatives, including the distribution of grocery bags to families in need, back-to-school supply giveaways in partnership with the local Eastwood Mall, and support for afterschool programs. He has also forged partnerships with community groups, enabling the sharing of vital neighborhood information and resources to uplift the local community.

Since 2024, Nick has enjoyed volunteering with Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Mahoning Valley, where he mentors his little brother and contributes to shaping the lives of youth in the community.

​Nick resides in South Euclid, Ohio, with his wife of 21 years, Candace (Foreman) Kelson, and their three children: Gabrielle (20), Desmond (19), and Alyssa (14). He cherishes spending time with his family, serving others, and making a lasting impact in the lives of those around him.