TSIC Nassau Welcomes New Board Of Director Members

Take Stock in Children Nassau is thrilled to welcome our two newest members of the Board of Directors! We are delighted to have their professional experience, expertise, and passion helping us advance our mission and expand access to scholarships and opportunities for students across Nassau County. Read below to learn more about our newest board members!

Karen is a retired CEO of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, bringing more than 30 years of leadership and healthcare management experience to our organization. She continues to serve her community through several local and national boards, including Baptist Medical Center Nassau, and we are pleased to have her expertise and passion supporting the students we serve.

Steve brings an impressive background in finance and taxation, having served in leadership roles at Gap Inc., Ernst & Young LLP, and the State of California. His commitment to community service includes volunteering with Boys & Girls Clubs of Nassau County, Ability First Sports Camp, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bay Area. We look forward to the expertise, experience, and passion for service he brings to TSIC Nassau!

Senior FAFSA Night

On October 6, TSIC seniors participated in FAFSA Night. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) helps determine students’ eligibility for federal financial aid, and our College Readiness Coaches and staff were on hand to guide students through the application process. Students also had the opportunity to review important materials and resources needed as they prepare for college applications.

Take Stock in Children of Nassau is accepting student applications for the 2026-2027 school year! Please help spread the word about our program to others in the community!

Applications are due by November 30, 2026.

The application is open to students currently in grades 7-10 in Nassau County.

Eligibility Requirements:

2.5 GPA or higher
Financial need
No discipline or attendance concerns

More information and the application can be found HERE!

Jack and Austin

This month's student-mentor spotlight is on mentor Jack Sipes and his mentee, Austin Burgess. The two have been matched since March 2023.

Jack Sipes, Mentor

What do you consider to be your hometown? How long have you lived in Fernandina Beach?

My hometown is Beaver, PA, and I have lived in Nassau County for 23 years.

What made you decide to mentor with Take Stock?

I became a mentor to contribute to our community and help positively develop young people for the challenges in their future. Also, my wife told me I was going to be a TSIC mentor.

How many students have you mentored?

I have mentored three students.

What have you gained from mentoring Austin?

Austin has given me a lot of satisfaction by showing me he has great potential to be a good husband, a good father, and a good citizen.

Austin Burgess, Hilliard Middle Senior High School

Why did you want to apply for Take Stock?

I wanted to apply for Take Stock to give myself a better opportunity. I saw an opportunity.

What have you learned from your relationship with your mentor, Jack?

I have learned responsibility, how to be a better man, take care of myself and make sure my future stays bright.

What is your favorite memory from TSIC?

My favorite memory of Take Stock would have to be the field trips. I love being able to see what it is like being on a campus and I love the cafeterias.

What are your plans after you graduate from high school and TSIC?

My plans after I graduate are to join a trade school to become an electrician and go to school for HVAC. I would also like to maybe start a business one day.

MENTOR STANDOUT

We are thrilled to celebrate Ms. Saunders, a TSIC Nassau mentor and scholar parent, on being named HMSHS 2026–27 Teacher of the Year!

We are grateful for her dedication to her students and her continued commitment to supporting young people through TSIC Nassau.

Congratulations, Mrs. Saunders! Your TSIC Nassau family is cheering you on! 👏

HOMECOMING HIGHLIGHTS

All smiles for TSIC Nassau senior DJ, who was crowned HMSHS Homecoming King! Congratulations, DJ!

Pictured are TSIC freshman Justice and her mentor Deanna. Justice was selected to represent the 9th grade on the Homecoming Court.

All dressed up and ready for Homecoming! FBHS senior and TSIC Nassau scholar Bella (left) shares a smile with a friend before heading off to the festivities!

Presale tickets go on sale December 1, 2026, at a discounted rate for our 30th anniversary Light Up a Life Gala. Mark your calendars for Friday, April 2, 2027. More information coming soon!