Board & Staff

Welcome from our Director

Welcome to Neighbors’ Educational Opportunities. I know that I speak for the entire NEO family when I say that we will do everything we can to support you on your journey to achieving your educational goals. Our programs are designed to provide you with multiple opportunities and support systems to reach your destination.

Neighbors’ New Vistas Alternative High School and Neighbors Adult Education are built on the “Golden Rule” – Treat others as you would have them treat you. With this principle as our guide, we pledge to recognize, respect, and celebrate the unique value of each member of our school community. We look forward to getting to know each one of you. Learning is maximized when a school culture is rooted in respect, responsibility, and commitment to learning. At New Vistas, we provide a relevant and rigorous curriculum delivered in a way that allows each student to find success during the school year and along the path following graduation. Individualized learning plans are an important part of the process.

I am here to assist you in your pursuit of the skills needed for success in this school, home, workplace, and in the community. Please feel free to speak with me about any questions or concerns. Once again, welcome to your new school. I am so glad you are here.

– Rebecca Reiner, Executive Director NEO New Vistas HS and Adult Education

Board of Directors

Frances Vega

President

I serve on the Board of Directors to support initiatives that resonate with me. It provides an excellent opportunity to positively affect change while supporting what I am passionate about. I am able to share my knowledge and expertise to really make a difference in the community in which I live. Ultimately, I serve to support efforts in achieving the goals that aligns with my passion for education. It is a uniquely rewarding experience.

Amelia Boggess

Vice President

My journey with Neighbors’ Educational Opportunities (NEO) began in 2012, fresh out of college. NEO wasn’t just my first job out of college; it was where I discovered my passion for adult education. Over the years, I served in many roles, from ESL and High School English teacher to Adult Education Coordinator, deepening my understanding of our students’ diverse needs.

NEO’s dedication to being a genuine community partner truly resonates with me. We strive to provide accessible pathways for individuals to achieve their goals, whether it’s mastering English, gaining citizenship, or advancing their education through achieving a high school diploma or training certificate.

My experience at NEO and my commitment to staying informed about adult education trends allow me to contribute a strategic perspective to the Board.

Looking ahead, I envision NEO becoming an even more recognized resource within our community. I hope to see us strengthen partnerships and solidify our reputation as the go-to place for individuals seeking to transform their lives through education.

Richard Sévère, Ph.D.

Through my role as teacher and administrator at Valparaiso University, I have collaborated with NEO and have witnessed their work that helps individuals live up to their highest potential and impacts the communities NEO serves. I value the organization’s mission and want to further that mision by contributing my time and talents to the board. I am an enthusiastic and organized educator and will contribute these and other skills (visionary, collaborative, affable) to NEO’s board. In particular, I will contribute to conversations regarding curriculum enhancements/enrichments, assessment and ways to prepare learners to be successful in and outside of the classroom, as well as work to leverage community partnerships and collaborations and fundraise to help NEO students understand and follow their vocations and calling.

Wynton Jones

I joined the board because I understand and support the need to educate the world equitably. NEO is doing something no one else in the NWI region has addressed, and it’s a blessing to serve along such a noble cause. I’m eager to get involved and learn more about the Energy Academy Initiative as I have always had personal career interest in building a conglomerate in the solar industry. As a Valpo alum, I plan to connect our resources, opportunities and expertise to advance the mission of the school. My passion and drive to make the world more efficient through renewable energy creates a lot of synergy for us. I also find fulfillment in assisting others in reaching their greatest potential in life. Overall, my deepest desire is to create positive energy, opportunities and equity for my community. Being on the board here turns those dreams and desires into reality.

Jose G. (Lupe) Valtierra, J.D

Community Development Educator, Purdue Extension

NEO is premised on the notion of providing equitable access to educational opportunities for all community members, regardless of situation or circumstance. My personal and professional focus mirrors this mission, hence why I choose to serve on the NEO Board. I believe equitable educational opportunities are key to the advancement of society, and we need to support organizations that strive to that goal.

Samantha Burgett, MSW, LSW

Founder – Community Change Center: WeAreOne, Inc

I am humbled to serve on the Board of Directors at an agency that truly goes above and beyond to meet people where they are at. Education and knowledge are key to breaking barriers and opening opportunities, and I am proud to play a minor role in helping make education more accessible to some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.

Scott Williams

Board Treasurer

Neighbors Educational Opportunities, for over a decade, has been a tremendous asset to Porter County. As a resident of Portage for over 40 years, I have witnessed the school grow and flourish. Over those years, I have visited the school on several occasions. It is an honor to be asked to serve on the Board, particularly as Treasurer. I believe that my 40+ years of teaching and assisting others in starting small businesses will bring a new dimension to NEO. Additionally, my organizational leadership skills will help guide NEO and the Board of Directors in the future.

Dexter Harris

I serve on the NEO board because I am passionate about inspiring young people to believe in the transformative power of education and their ability to shape the future. I am committed to this organization because it fosters a sense of belonging, making students feel like they are part of a supportive family rather than just another face in the crowd.