Since graduating from Sophia Academy in 2010, Nealisse’s thirst for knowledge led her to pursue a diploma from Classical High School and a degree in social work at Rhode Island College. In May 2020, in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, she has earned her Master’s of Social Work from Fordham University. She is a dedicated mother, student, social justice advocate and part-time social worker at Sophia – making history as the first alumna to return to Sophia as a faculty member.
Ms. Nealisse has been an integral member of our Family Outreach Team during distance learning, communicating with families weekly to share resources and to support parents and students alike.
She credits Sophia Academy as the place that began her trajectory towards social work, cultivating the sense of justice and concern for others that drives her today.
How did you hear about Sophia Academy?
“I had a cousin who attended Sophia, so I always sort of knew about it. My best friend was going to attend the school, so we ended up attending together. I finished fifth grade at Laurel Hill Elementary and transferred into Sophia Academy in sixth grade. Even though I didn’t have the full four years at Sophia, it felt like a natural and easy transition into the community.
What sets Sophia apart from other middle school educations?
“Its so hard to compare! The smaller size of the school – which means the relationships between staff and students are so different than anywhere else. The staff shows that they genuinely care a lot and are helpful and supportive of the students. Sophia is really in its own category.
Sophia has grown a lot, even since I’ve graduated. There are even more opportunities for students now, and the supports for students has only increased. This is such an important place for girls – this is where they start to form their core beliefs and values.
What is something that stands out and stays with you from your middle school years at Sophia?
“The unique opportunities that we have. I still remember being a student host for an event with Alan Shawn Feinstein, hiking Mount Monadnock, traveling to New York City, and Washington D.C.. I was able to explore a much wider range of high schools than I would have otherwise seen, and had dedicated support from teachers and staff in my decision process.
How has Sophia shaped the person you are today?
“I always knew I wanted to work with kids, but never exactly how. Sophia was the first place I encountered the topic of social justice, and the justice-focused education began to widen my worldview – it changed what I wanted to do and how I see the world.
Although I couldn’t exactly articulate this at the time, having the basic exposure to social justice helped me immensely as I moved to high school and college. I can credit Sophia for laying the foundation for my strong belief system now. Originally, I was going to pursue a degree to become a child psychological therapist at RIC, but when I researched the different programs, the social worker code of ethics resonated with me. The ability I have now as a social worker to be an advocate for human rights and social justice, while also working with individuals, goes all the way back to my time at Sophia.
What’s your dream job?
“I want to do everything! I’d like to work with all ages; in the prison system, in schools, etc. My genuine interest is in giving back.