2024 Most Influential Women: Nacy Tai Ryerson

Nacy Tai Ryerson knows adversity.

When Lyme disease cut short her collegiate basketball career, complete with a full scholarship, Ryerson faced the challenge of an unexpected turn.

“This completely altered my career trajectory and led me into education. Lyme disease took a very traditional honor student and made me face difficulties that reshaped my entire perspective,” she says. “My journey, marked by both privilege and adversity, has equipped me with a unique perspective and a strong, optimistic attitude.”

It is that optimism that fueled her determination to open a school while also completing her doctoral degree in educational leadership and curriculum instruction from Evangel University — during COVID-19.

“Building a school during a pandemic while completing my doctoral degree was one of the most monumental challenges I’ve faced,” says Ryerson, founder of EnCompass Academy, a small private school in Springfield designed to support students with diverse needs. “It taught me invaluable lessons about the power of teamwork, the importance of setting boundaries, and the necessity of prioritizing health and relationships for collective success.”

Opened in 2020 and dedicated to supporting underserved and marginalized populations, EnCompass works with students from all backgrounds, including those dealing with trauma, disabilities, unique neurological profiles and giftedness, she says.

“Creating a place where students graduate not only with academic success but also with essential life skills is a proud accomplishment,” Ryerson says. “Seeing students equipped to advocate for themselves and others, understand the value of hard work and grit and identify their strengths just fills me with pride.”

She’s also proud of the quick five months it took for EnCompass to gain accreditation, which allows low-income families and students with individualized education plans to apply for tuition assistance through a state initiative.

“This achievement represents my commitment to creating comprehensive services at EnCompass, designed to uplift and empower our community,” Ryerson says.

Outside of work, she is a volunteer for Recess, a respite program for families experiencing a disability; serves on the board of Champions Committed to Kids; and previously sat on the board for the Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks.

She remains committed to contributing to a community where students and their families can thrive and flourish.

“I want to demonstrate that, with the right support and community, we can all do very hard things and come out stronger on the other side.”