Abby Mansolillo Visits Section 36!

Photo: Daniel Gagnon

Section 36 had another visitor! Abby Mansolillo is passionate about trusting your gut, a talented speaker, and the current Miss Rhode Island. I was so excited that she was willing to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more. 

So, let's see what happens when Abby Mansolillo visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Rhode Island crown?

I am so lucky to have an incredible support system behind me. When I won, I had family and a few close friends at my house for dinner (and cake, of course). After the competition however, I dove into studying for my law school finals, and began my year as Miss Rhode Island! 

 

What did you learn about yourself at the Miss Rhode Island Competition that will help you at Miss America?

Photo: Daniel Gagnon

When we compete for any title, it’s easy to say that we’ve learned specific skill sets that’ll help us at the national level. The Miss Rhode Island Organization has definitely helped me with my interview skills that I have already used to further my career goals, it helped re-affirm stage presence and commanding an audience, and of course, advocating for a cause and organization that is important to me. However, at Miss Rhode Island, I really focused on myself and how I would put forth the best version of “Abby Mansolillo” - I asked myself what I wanted to get out of the whole experience; and worried about my own performance. That’s absolutely a message I want other young women to hear: stay in your lane and worry about the work and the performance you put out to the world. Don’t look at anyone else - be so busy watering your own garden to see if someone else’s grass is greener. When we get past those mental obstacles; that someone else is more intelligent, more talented, or has a better gown, even, that’s when we’re really able to tap into our fullest potential. 

 

Is there a specific goal you’d like to accomplish during your time as Miss Rhode Island?

My biggest goal is to be the very first Miss America from Rhode Island! Our state has not had a top five placement at Miss America since Marilyn Cocozza Trillo, Miss Rhode Island 1967, who was Third - Runner Up at Miss America.  

 

I also hope to grow this organization. I think it’s important that we inform young women across the state about the benefits of becoming a candidate in the Miss Rhode Island Scholarship Organization - because that’s exactly what it is; a scholarship organization. Miss America is the largest scholarship provider for young women across the country; and women do not have to win the title to win scholarship money! It is also a great way to practice your interview skills that are helpful for career paths or for pursuing higher degrees, and of course, introduces young women to other like minded individuals who are devoted to bettering themselves and the community. 

 

Finally, I am so excited to grow my social impact initiative, “Trust Your Gut”. I am looking forward to partnering with health advocacy groups to achieve two goals; the first is to encourage patients to know that they have options when it comes to their health, and the importance of consulting doctors for multiple opinions to make informed decisions and to improve their quality of care! The second is to focus on future healthcare providers, and to encourage them to provide patients with the tools to make such informed decisions. Ultimately, improved communication between patents and healthcare providers means improved care. 

 

How did you select your social impact initiative, “Trust Your Gut”?

My Social Impact Initiative is “Trust Your Gut: Be Your Own Health Advocate”, where I plan to continue encouraging young adults, especially young women, to listen to their bodies, know their family history, and maintain open and honest communication with their healthcare providers. My mother received a cancer diagnosis in 2019, and had a cancerous GIST (Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor) removed. It is because of her advocacy and push for medical testing that she is cancer - free; but still is under supervision of Dana Farber Cancer Institute. In honor of her, I created “Trust Your Gut” to increase access to tools to improve care from their healthcare providers. 

 

As a talented singer, what do you enjoy about performing on stage?

I haven’t sang in a VERY long time! My talent for Miss Rhode Island was performing a dramatic monologue from the movie “On the Basis of Sex” about the story of United States Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. I love performing and being onstage - I think it’s a really beautiful thing to break down the third wall between myself and the audience and connect in that intimate way. It’s an adrenaline rush that absolutely cannot be replicated; taking on the role that I chose is exciting because I want to do it justice and bring the character that I channel to life. 

 

What is your personal fitness routine?

I’ve been practicing yoga for about six years, and I love hot power yoga! I’ve tried many different workouts - spin, kickboxing, running, but I’ve stuck with yoga and I still enjoy going to the gym. I definitely believe that fitness is not just exercise - it’s also taking care of yourself from the inside out. It’s making sure I drink more water than I do coffee (which I admittedly need to work on), getting outside and going for a walk, and making sure that I’m fueled appropriately. I love food - I even have an Instagram account called “Abbyssnacks” where I post about different restaurants that I frequent - and I have worked with a nutritionist since I was in high school!  

 

You’re currently pursuing a law degree at Roger Williams University School of Law. What drew you to that field?

My mother went to law school, graduating from Southern New England School of Law (which is now UMass Dartmouth), and my grandfather (her father), Louis V. Jackvony, was an attorney in Rhode Island for many years. It was certainly their influence, but my mom knew I had to come to it on my own; and I did! 

 

I think people forget that by signing up to be an attorney, you are signing up to be a public servant. You are there to help those who are in need of legal assistance, and often, to represent your state’s legal system. I am a summer legal intern at the Department of the Attorney General in Rhode Island, in the Narcotics Division and my ultimate goal is to become the second female Attorney General of Rhode Island. Being there has taught me the importance of public service, keeping our state and our citizens safe, and the significance of maintaining the integrity of the legal field. 

 

If you had an extra ticket to see the Red Sox play at Fenway, who would you take with you? Why?

Definitely my dad! I remember him watching the Boston Red Sox play the Yankees when I was a little girl.  

 

Is there a feature or activity at a baseball game that you’d especially like to experience?

My family will totally make fun of me because my throw is sub-par at best; but it would be SO much fun to throw the first pitch of the game! I just may need some help; are there practice throws? 

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Oh, I imagine she could get a practice toss or two in there! 

As always, I want to thank Abby for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to go with the interview.

As Abby continues her time as Miss Rhode Island, I encourage you to check out her title's website and Instagram. You should also visit the Instagram for her SII. And, why not check out her snacks Instagram too! They're great ways to keep track of everything she has going on! 

I also want to wish her the best of luck when she competes for the Miss America crown this winter. It would be wonderful to have another Section 36 visitor wear that crown!

Thanks again Abby, and good luck!

Molly Andrade Visits Section 36

Section 36 has a new visitor! Molly Andrade is a dancer, a Red Sox fan, and the current Miss Rhode Island. I was thrilled that she

was willing to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more.

So let's see what happens when Molly Andrade visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss Rhode Island crown?

I was fortunate to have 25 family and friends attend the competition and celebrate with me at the after party! To be honest, I’m still celebrating! I am still trying to take it all in and embrace the experience.

What’s something you learned about yourself at the Miss Rhode Island competition that will help you at Miss America?

After competing for three years for Miss Rhode Island, I am grateful for the many lessons I have learned from the Miss America Organization. I have gained confidence, developed leadership skills, and frankly, sometimes learned the power and lessons of failure. These lessons will help me not only at Miss America but throughout my life. No matter how what obstacles I face, I will always get up and be ready to overcome them.

What part of going to Miss America are you most excited about?

Photo by Daniel Gagnon

I have watched Miss America since as far back as I can remember. At first, it was the beautiful dresses and the talent that amazed me. As I grew, I began to appreciate the role models these young women were and the difference they were making, and I aspired to follow in their footsteps. Now, being Miss Rhode Island, competing for Miss America and being a positive influence on others is not a role I take lightly.

How did you select your social impact statement “self-defense for women”?

One of the best decisions I’ve ever made was taking a self-defense class. The course was so empowering and encompassed so much more than just basic self-defense. After someone close to me was sexually assaulted, the reality hit that no one is invincible. To see what may be for her, a lifelong trauma, I felt compelled to do something. I chose for my school capstone’ to get the self-defense program implemented into my high school curriculum so that every female would be required to take it. My goal is to continue to work towards implementing self-defense programs and educate people about sexual assault.

As a talented Irish step dancer, what is your favorite part about performing on stage?

Perhaps being half Irish helped, but ever since I was a young girl, I

Photo by Daniel Gagnon

was mesmerized watching Irish Step Dancing. It did not take long for me to realize that Irish Step requires hours of training, stamina, and dedication, and I have loved every second of it. Dancing on stage is second nature to me as I have competed in Irish Step Dancing for the past 10 years. One of the highlights of my career was competing at two World Championships and being able to dance on a world stage doing what I love! I am so excited to showcase my talent on the Miss America stage!

You were recently able to walk in a fashion show at Rosecliff Mansion. What was that experience like?

I had the pleasure of walking in the, A Night to Remember fashion show this year for the third time! I love modeling and being able to step outside my comfort zone and try new fashion styles. This event supports students at Rogers High School in Newport and their Career and Technical Center. Being in the beautiful Rosecliff Mansion while wearing designer clothing and helping students makes this event such a fun and fulfilling evening.

Who is your favorite Red Sox player? Why?

Photo by Daniel Gagnon

My favorite player is J.D. Martinez because of his offensive power. He was a key free agent pick up for the Red Sox in the pre-season before capturing the world series the following year. I love how dedicated he is to his craft and his passion for the game!

Is there a feature or activity at Fenway Park that you’d especially like to experience?

I have been fortunate enough to attend many Red Sox games in the past few years. There is nothing like the Boston Fenway Park experience! One day I hope to be able to watch a game from the Green monster! Additionally, I have always been fascinated by the manual scoreboard and I would love to be able to see and learn how it operates!

What were you doing when the Red Sox won the 2018 World Series?
I am a sophomore at Endicott college in Beverly, MA and on October 28th, 2018 my friends and I were in our dorm eager to watch the Red Sox take home the title for the 9th time! There is nothing better than having our home team win the championship! There was so much excitement and pride, we were blaring Sweet Caroline!

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That sounds like a fun time to me!
As always, I want to thank to Molly for doing this interview. I think it's so much fun learning more about amazing titleholders. I also want to thank her for sending along so many fantastic pictures. They really show what the words can't.
As Molly continues her time as Miss Rhode Island, I encourage you to follow her on her official Miss Rhode Island social media outlets, including her official Facebook page and Instagram account. 
Of course, I also want to wish Molly luck this fall as she competes for the Miss America crown! I'm sure we'll all be watching her up on that stage!
Thanks again Molly, and good luck!

Alexandra Coppa Visits Section 36!

Section 36 has another visitor! Alexandra Coppa is a Red Sox fan, and the current Miss Rhode Island. In addition to following the Sox, she'll be spending her summer preparing for Miss America in

September. Thankfully she was nice enough to take time out of her schedule and visit with us to discuss her short time as Miss Rhode Island, blogging, the Red Sox, and much more. 

So let's see what happens when Alexandra Coppa visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate being crowned Miss Rhode Island?

After the pageant, the board, judges, formers, families, and of course my Teen and I, went to a restaurant in Newport to celebrate. It was really nice to be under the same roof as everyone after the chaos of the pageant died down to celebrate with all of those who made my dream a reality! It was also special to sit down with my family, who has supported me through everything I've done, as we are all pretty busy and don't get opportunities like that too often. 

You’re a former Miss Rhode Island’s Outstanding Teen. Do you think the experience of competing on a national stage will help you at Miss America?

Absolutely! I think one of the greatest lessons I learned at MAOT is

to believe in yourself and never give up. I remember being disappointed after my interview and giving up on myself before the rest of the competition, only to find out that October that I had been top 5 in the interview portion. It taught me that we are our own worst critics and to persevere regardless of how you think you performed. This is definitely an extremely important lesson that applies to most things in life and I'm glad that I am going to Miss America with the mindset that I am enough and that I should always believe in myself. It sounds so cliche but it's so true. 

What aspect of the Miss America competition are you most excited about?

I have wanted to compete for Miss RI since I gave up my title of Miss Rhode Island's Outstanding Teen but life got in the way for a while. First, I was assimilating into college, then I struggled with an eating disorder. The next year I was recovering, and when I finally was ready, the pageant fell on the day on my graduation. I'm just really excited to finally live out my dream and have the opportunity of a lifetime. Also, my best friend from college is our current Miss America, so I am excited to see her doing big things and living out her dream as well. I am so proud of her and was not able to attend the competition last year, so I am so happy that I can be there for her this time.

How did you select your platform, “HEALing Souls: Eating Disorder Treatment and Awareness”?

My platform is extremely personal to me. I suffered from an eating

disorder during my freshman and sophomore years of college and was in a very dark place in my life until I completed residential treatment. Recovery was hard and almost felt impossible, but I did it, and now I am an advocate for those who are in that very same place. I think it's important to be transparent and open about my experiences to let those who feel the hopelessness that I felt that recovery isn't as far-fetched as it seems. The word HEAL in the title of my platform represents Project HEAL, a national nonprofit of which I began a chapter at Brown University upon my return. I was in treatment over the summer between my sophomore and junior years and I felt like I needed a support system if I was going to continue to be okay. Project HEAL aims to

raise money for a treatment grant program to provide treatment for those who cannot afford it (treatment can get up to $5,000 a DAY), and to raise awareness of eating disorders. I became a mentor for others who watched me recover and flourish, and it showed me that if I wanted to help others, I had to be in charge of my own health. I've been in recovery for three years now, and I couldn't be happier to spend my year as Miss Rhode Island proving that it is okay to ask for help and that asking for help is truly worth it.

As a talented dancer, what is your favorite part about performing on stage?

I have been dancing since I was two years old, so dancing is a part

of my identity. I starting competing when I was 8 years old and found a love for performing. I was quite the ham on stage as a kid and it's cool to see my progress through the years, while still having that same passion for the stage. I think the thrill of performing comes from all the hard work I put in over the years. I was the girl who always had to work extra hard to prove to others that I was worthy and that I could keep up. I remember being told that I would never be a titleholder, so I put my mind to it and I

ended up winning titles from that point on. Being on stage reminds me that I can do anything I set my mind to and that I have come so far in my life because I never listened to the doubts around me. If you believe it, you can achieve it!

You’re a fellow blogger. What can you tell me about “Sparkles and Synapses”?

I began my blog while I was in treatment. This started because I

was so confused about people telling me to journal. I was thinking, why should I tell myself how I feel? I know how I feel and writing it down isn't going to help me work it out. So instead, I decided to tell others how I felt. In having to explain it to others to the extent where they could feel what I felt was a lot harder than writing, "I'm sad and today is hard," in a journal. I had to dig deep, and honestly, it was pretty painful. I uncovered a lot about myself that contributed to my eating disorder, such as the pain of being bullied my whole life, and a deep need for perfection because of all the doubts I experienced through my life regarding my talents and abilities. I was shocked to find that people started reaching out to me, opening up about their struggles and supporting me through my time of need. I realized that I had a voice and I could inspire others by sharing something that was deeply personal. Trigger

warning for anyone who wants to read it: it is VERY detailed and I do not hold back about any of my thoughts or feelings. It is highly emotional and can be hard for people to read if they are going through it, but it is really wonderful to read from least to most recent and see my growth and how much more positive my posts become as my journey through recovery continues. It shows that darkness that I was in and the light that I found in my life and I think if those who feel alone read it, it can be very eye opening. You are not alone and you are enough. Recovery is possible and it is worth it regardless of the intensely hard work that goes into it. 

Who is your favorite current Red Sox player? Why?

I don't have a favorite! I've been a part of a team/company as a dancer and I know that everyone is just as important as the other. I love the dynamic of sports teams, and how close they must be in order to read each others' plays and movements. Being a part of a team is a blessing and each person on the team makes it what it is.

If you can’t sit in Section 36, where would you like to sit to watch a Red Sox game?

I've only been to one or two games, so honestly, put me in any

section! The environment is so exciting and being there is a cool experience. If I could be anywhere though, I would like to be on the field throwing the first pitch! 

How will the Red Sox finish the 2018 season?

Oh that's an easy question. Boston sports are the best sports. I think all your readers know the answer to this question! :) 

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She’s right. That’s should definitely be an easy question!

As always, I want to send a huge thank you to Alexandra for visiting with us. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. Another big thanks for supplying the great pictures to go along with the interview. They really make the interview pop. (And thanks to the photographer: Daniel Gagnon Photography)

If you'd like to keep up with Alexandra during her time as Miss Rhode Island, check out her official Instagram account. You can also follow the Miss Rhode Island Organization itself on both Facebook and Instagram. And, be sure to check out her wonderful blog! Often!

And, of course, I want to wish Alexandra luck at the Miss America competition in September! It’s always exciting to see members of the Section 36 family on that stage!

Thanks again Alexandra, and good luck!

Nicolette Peloquin Visits Section 36!

Section 36 has another visitor! Nicolette Peloquin is a Red Sox fan, and the current Miss Rhode Island. In addition to following the

Sox, she'll be spending her summer preparing for Miss America in September. Thankfully she was nice enough to take time out of her busy schedule and visit with us to discuss her short time as Miss Rhode Island, Disney Princesses, the Red Sox, and much more. 

So, let's see what happens when Nicolette Peloquin visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate being crowned Miss Rhode Island?

Right after I was crowned Miss Rhode Island, I was immediately surrounded my friends, family, and mentors.  After years of competing (this was my third time), I had finally pulled through and brought home the gold for all those people that have been supporting me for YEARS.  There is so much time and energy invested in preparing for a pageant so I was glad I could make them proud! I would be remiss to not mention that I had lots of donuts that night too!!

What lessons from the Miss Rhode Island competition can you bring with you to Miss America?

I now know that I won this year because I was the best version of myself.  I was not worried about being better than the girl next to me.  I was most concerned with being the best version of the person I saw in the mirror.  In preparation for Miss America, it will be important for me to remain true to myself and where I come from while helping people along the way.

Which portion of the Miss America competition are you most excited about?

I am most excited about the interview portion of competition.  I feel as though this portion of competition allows for the judges to see who I truly am!  I have a bubbly, outgoing personality and always try to get the panel of judges laughing.  At Miss Rhode Island, I

Nicolette is flanked
by Carly Fisher (L)
and Alissa Musto (R)

had the judges laughing about a story that involved my late grandfather and it brought me comfort in one of the most important aspects of competition.

Last year your talent was singing while dressed as Rapunzel. What made you switch back to a tumbling routine for this year’s competition?

On the weekend’s, I perform as a Disney Princess where I do magic tricks, balloon animals, sing, and dance.  Considering it was something I practiced almost every weekend for work, I figured why not (and the costume was super cool)!  As I had said before,

when preparing this year for the competition, I wanted to remain true to myself.  My roots lie in all star cheerleading so I knew I needed to go back to a tumbling routine.  I was a competitive cheerleader from a very young age and had the opportunity to represent the United States at the USASF Cheerleading Worlds for a number of years.  I am so incredibly thankful that I have such an extensive background in tumbling, it made the talent portion of competition this year so much more enjoyable!

In addition to Rapunzel, as you mentioned, you’ve performed as Belle and Anna at various events. Which Disney Princess is your favorite? Why?

Being a 90’s baby, I am a huge fan of the classic princesses.  There are some really well developed characters in some of the newer Disney movies but I would still have to go with Belle from “Beauty and the Beast”.  Belle is introverted yet looks for the best in those who aren't necessarily the kindest to her; I think this is a message that should resonate with everyone!

How did you become involved with your platform, “Be the Match: The National Bone Marrow Registry?

I lost both my Nana Nancy and Papa Kenny to cancer.  While my Nana Nancy was undergoing treatment, I had an emergency surgery to remove a golf ball sized lymph node that was potentially Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma.  Luckily, I came out unscathed and had a blood infection.  However, there are so many people who end up being diagnosed with a blood cancer.  When I went back to school (Salve Regina), there was a registry drive for Be the Match and I joined.  Within a few months I was called and told I was a match for a 60 year old stranger.  I knew what I had to do!  On August 9, 2016, the day after my 21st birthday, I donated over 360 million stem cells to a stranger in another country.  Just a few weeks ago, I finally found out that my match is healthy and doing well.  It is an incredible feeling to know I may have lost out on celebrating my birthday, but I was able to buy my match another birthday and more time with her family. If you are interested in joining the registry, click on the link: http://www.ribc.org/ways-to-give/donate-marrow Use promo code : MISSRI

This is the first Red Sox season in a while without David Ortiz. What’s your favorite Ortiz memory?

My favorite Ortiz memory, by far, is not one that has to do with a fantastic hit.  When he took the microphone at the Red Sox game right after the Boston Marathon Bombing and spoke, what he said showed how resilient and united the city of Boston was, and always will be.  So many people were shocked by the lack of censorship but I respect that it was from the heart and embodied so much of what the city of Boston stands for!

Who is your favorite Red Sox player? Why?
Dustin Pedroia has showed an immense amount of commitment to the Red Sox organization.  So many athletes will bounce around from team to team, but he has stayed true to Boston.  Pedroia has been a consistent asset to the team and a leader.

How do you think the Red Sox will finish the 2017 season? 

Considering the fact that the Sox are tied for first with the Yankees…. let’s be serious.  We know they will end up on top!  New England sports teams are the best.  No need to knock on wood here.  Regardless, I am a proud Sox fan no matter what the outcome is this year!

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Fantastic answer! Glad she'll always be a fan of her Sox!

As always, I want to send a huge thank you to Nicolette for taking the time to visit with us. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. Another big thanks for supplying the great pictures to go along with the interview. They really make the interview much better than it would be otherwise. The fact that she sent a picture of three Section 36 visitors was just perfection.

If you'd like to keep up with Nicolette during her time as Miss Rhode Island, check out her official Facebook, and Instagram. You can also follow the Miss Rhode Island Organization itself on both Facebook and Instagram. Oh, and if you happen to be looking at some Barbara Gerwitt items over at Island Pursuit, you might recognize one of the models!

And, of course, I want to wish Nicolette luck at the Miss America competition in September! Last year Alissa finished in the top 15 after visiting Section 36. Hopefully Nicolette does at least as well as that.

Thanks again Nicolette, and good luck!