Sophia Notaro: St. Joseph’s University — PACE Program (Naklicki Toolan Family Scholarship Award)

Starting this fall, Sophia will attend St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia in the PACE program, where she will focus on Early Childhood Education. She is excited to take college classes, live in the dorms, and prepare for her future career working with children.

Sophia graduated from both Marple Newtown High School and Delaware County Technical High School in June 2025. At tech school, she specialized in Early Childhood Education and gained hands-on experience in the Head Start program. In high school, she was voted Homecoming Queen, played on the bocce team, and was involved in Best Buddies.

Outside of school, Sophia works as a hostess at a local restaurant. She is also active in Special Olympics basketball and Challenger Basketball, both as a player and as a buddy to younger participants. She loves music, dance, movies, musicals, traveling, and spending time with friends.

“I am most proud of the impact I have made on the children I have worked with,” Sophia shares. “I am so thankful for all of the therapists, teachers, and cheerleaders who have supported me along the way—especially Mrs. T, Mrs. S, and Ms. Sherry.”

We’re cheering you on, Sophia!