BVM Scholarship Recipient Sophia Hey uses art to advocate change.
by Kari Litscher
Sophia Hey’s story is one of overcoming personal challenges and using her experiences to help others. As a recipient of multiple BVM scholarships, she has used her education and passion for the arts to advocate for those struggling with mental illness. Sophia’s journey, marked by family support, personal growth, and a commitment to justice, is a powerful example of how one person can make a difference in their community.
Love and Inspiration
From the start, Sophia’s family has been a source of constant encouragement. “My parents and older brother have been there for me from the beginning, encouraging me to follow my passions,” she states. Their belief in her abilities helped her navigate the trials she faced and stay focused on her goals. Sophia faced significant challenges, but instead of letting these struggles define her, she has turned them into a driving force for change.
“I want to advocate for those who can’t speak for themselves . . . Raising awareness can shed light on how people struggling with mental health are often overlooked.”
Her personal experiences fuel her commitment to social justice. “The fight for justice for those with mental illness is difficult, but through advocacy, we can help create understanding,” she explains. “Where there is love, there is freedom, and where there is empathy, there is justice.”
Using the Arts to Share Stories
Sophia’s love for acting, writing, and other forms of creative expression, has always been intertwined with her desire to share stories of health struggles. “I want to share people’s stories, including my own . . . I feel I have the tools to go into my community and use my skills to help others understand what people with mental illness go through.”
Sophia thrived in her studies at Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee, Wis., where she studied both English writing and theater. She shares, “Through the support of the BVMs, I gained confidence in what I studied, and that confidence continues to grow.”
Special Support from Sister Helen
Helen Gourlay, BVM has been a constant source of support for Sophia throughout her college years. “Sister Helen has always been there for me,” Sophia says. “To know that she believed in me and prayed for me [which] kept me motivated.” Helen’s encouragement, especially during the times when Sophia was still recovering from mental health challenges, had a lasting impact. “It didn’t take long for me to feel comforted by her kindness and uplifting words.”
Although Sophia communicates primarily with Helen, she is deeply grateful to all the BVM Sisters for their support, exclaiming, “I’d like to thank them all for their love and encouragement.”
Life After College
Sophia graduated with a bachelor’s degree in the spring of 2023, just before Cardinal Stritch closed its doors for the final time. Since then, she has been exploring new opportunities while continuing to pursue her artistic passions. She currently works as a Clinic Service Representative at Children’s Wisconsin, a role that she finds fulfilling. “I enjoy my job a lot, and it gives me time to explore other interests,” she shares.
In her free time, Sophia continues to write poetry and create art. “My love for the arts hasn’t diminished,” she affirms. “I want to use my skills to advocate for mental health and break the stigma of mental illness.”
Sophia enjoys expressing herself through art, writing, and performing. Photos provided.
Pursuing Writing and Performance
Sophia’s efforts have already taken shape. She wrote an article for a local magazine sharing her experience and how she was able to overcome it with the support of her community. “I wanted to express that even though I had a dark time, I was able to persevere,” she explains.
In addition to her writing, Sophia created a poem based on the experiences of someone close to her who faced cruelty because of their health struggles. “I hope to write more that gives insight into what others have gone through. I’m also hoping to join community theaters and even write my own scripts,” she reveals. “I want to use these platforms to spread awareness.”
Sophia’s bravery in sharing her struggles highlights her strength and passion for helping others. Through her writing, acting, and encouragement, she is on a mission to break the stigma and create spaces for understanding and empathy. Her journey is only just beginning. Sophia is poised to make a lasting impact on those who need it most.
This story was featured in:
Winter 2025: Celebrating 50 Years of Salt
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