A few years ago, the late Ed Tancer called to share with the Foundation a “powerhouse” as a recommendation for consideration to the Education Foundation’s Board of Directors. He introduced us to Ms. Sophia Nelson. And five minutes into the first conversation with Sophia, it was apparent the Foundation had found a Board Member! The President and CEO of S.A. Nelson and Associates since 2016, Sophia’s natural energy and enthusiasm inspires others around her.
As a member of the Program and Grants Committee, Sophia volunteers time each year dedicated to reviewing and scoring the GoTeach! Classroom Grant applications submitted by teachers throughout the county. Additionally, Sophia lends a helping hand at the annual GoTeach! Classroom Grant Awards Ceremony showcasing her support for teachers and celebrating their tireless efforts to ensure classroom innovation. One of Sophia’s favorite activities of the Education Foundation is the annual Principal and Teacher of the Year Ceremonies. In her words, “You can feel the love and support in the room.” Fully committed to supporting public education in Palm Beach County, Sophia states, “we must recognize our servant leaders in education and create the same excitement to see their passion in action.”
Speaking of servant leadership…when not running her own company, or working on Education Foundation Board work, Sophia Nelson can be found on the Nominating Advisory Board of the YWCA, on the Board of the Girls II Women, serving as Vice Chair of the West Palm Beach Police Athletic League, and as a member of the Caribbean American for Community involvement, Delta Sigma Theta West Palm Beach Alumnae Chapter, Leadership Palm Beach County and Chair of the Gulfstream Region for Leadership Florida.
But thankfully for the Foundation, she also has a burning passion for public education. Sophia adds, “I love the staff and the energy it brings to closing the achievement gap in Palm Beach County. This energy makes it a joy to be a board member, to raise critically needed funds and to promote the many awesome programs that the Education Foundation offers to teachers, students and the community.”
Business and community leader, joyful volunteer, dedicated Education Foundation Board of Director all aptly describe Sophia Nelson. Carrying on the legacy of her dear friend Ed Tancer is yet one more motivation to get involved and make a difference. When one sees the breadth of Sophia’s community involvement and commitment to the Education Foundation, Ed must be proud to call her friend…and so are we!
