Why I Support Take Stock Nassau

By Jeff Hirshberg

I was a donor before I was a mentor.

When Theodore Cohen died in 2017 and left me in charge of his estate, he asked that I focus his resources to help educate those who might not otherwise afford an education. We had already jump-started a girls' school in Tanzania, and it wasn't a stretch to fund Holocaust education programs in western New York. It was clear to me, from the day I learned about TSIC, that its mentorship, scholarship, and college coaching programs were a perfect fit for Ted's trust ... and our own. We have been proud to donate from our own funds and from Ted's for the past several years.

But I also needed to see for myself how the program works. The first step was helping to evaluate the applications of students hoping to participate in Take Stock: reading every application, interviewing students and their parents or guardians, and making sometimes difficult selections. I've done this twice, an experience that at least gave me a taste of what I was in for when taking on a student mentee.

I'm now in my second year as an active mentor with Cloud Byrd, a Junior at Yulee High School. From our earliest discussions revolving around his values and priorities (there's a worksheet for that), educational and professional goals (other worksheets are available), our relationship has evolved as we've developed confidence and trust in ourselves and each other. I can only hope that I have enriched his life as much as he has enriched mine.

There are many ways to contribute to students like Cloud. There is always a need for mentors, and of course, the end of the year is a perfect time to make a charitable contribution to TSIC Nassau.

Get ready to shine at the annual “Light Up a Life Gala” hosted by Take Stock in Children of Nassau County (TSICN) at the stunning Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island on Thursday, March 13, 2025! This spectacular event illuminates the path to higher education for local Nassau students, empowering them to achieve their college dreams through mentorship, preparation, and the promise of a four-year tuition scholarship upon graduation. The evening will be hosted by the charismatic duo Anthony Austin and Heather Crawford from First Coast News. Prepare to be serenaded by the enchanting melodies of award-winning pianist, Julie Coucheron, whose small concert will undoubtedly elevate the atmosphere. And let's not forget the thrilling silent and live auctions, where you can bid on one-of-a-kind experiences and items generously contributed by our local businesses. Join us for a night of inspiration, community, and the chance to make a real difference in the lives of our future leaders!

Light Up a Life Gala tickets go on sale December 1, 2024. Take advantage of early-bird pricing of $200 per ticket for the month of December. Starting January 1, 2025, the price increases to $250. Tables of 10 can be purchased at the early-bird rate for Deceember too. Tickets can be purchased on Take Stock Nassau's website:

Several students graduate from Take Stock Nassau and decide to join the military. Their scholarship is placed on hold for the future if they decide to use it. In honor of Veteran's Day, Take Stock Nassau would like to recognize our recent graduates who served and are currently serving in the United States armed forces. We are grateful for their service.

Time Left to Register for Inaugural Dollars for Scholars 5K

Students from Take Stock Nassau toured the University of Florida and Santa Fe College in Gainesville last month. 45 8th, 9th, 10th, and 11th graders traveled with their College Success Coaches to hear about all the different programs offered at the University of Florida. The highlight of UF was walking around “The Swamp,” where the Gators play football. Once the students fueled up in the student cafeteria, they headed to the neighboring feeder college, Santa Fe. Santa Fe often provides a pathway to UF through various associate’s degree programs. Santa Fe has a working zoo for their zoology program. It is important to take campus tours to show the students what their life will be like after they graduate from high school and utilize their scholarship from Take Stock. The next campus tour will be to Valdosta State University in Georgia where Nassau students are offered the in-state tuition rate.

This month's student-mentor spotlight is mentor Tonya Baudek and her mentee, Jenny Ta. The two have been matched since May 2020.

Tonya Baudek, Mentor

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

I grew up in Melbourne, FL, and I have lived in Nassau County for 8 years. I came here with my family after living in the DC area for 5 years. 

What made you decide to mentor with Take Stock?

I had many mentors during my youth who didn't necessarily carry the title of mentor but they were teachers, coaches and people who invested their time in guiding me. They gave me good advice, believed in me and cared for me at a time when I was trying to figure out life. I am certain that much of my success in life is a result of having these individuals who took the time to care and invest in me during those years. Therefore, giving back and mentoring a local student will always be a goal of mine and important to me.

How many students have you mentored?

I have mentored one student. Jenny and I have been meeting regularly for 5 years, and she will graduate this year which brings on many emotions.

What have you gained from mentoring Jenny?

I often joke around and I say I think Jenny mentors me more than I mentor her! Jenny is so smart, caring and driven. I would like to think that I have had a positive impact on her and that I am someone she trusts and knows that I am always in her corner. I feel like I gained a daughter with her, and I look forward to watching her succeed throughout her life! 

Jenny Ta, Yulee High School

Why did you want to apply for Take Stock?

I applied for Take Stock because I wanted the opportunity to be part of a program that supported my education and personal growth. The scholarship assistance was a big draw, but I was equally excited about the mentorship and guidance it offered. I knew Take Stock would help me stay on track for college, both financially and personally, and give me a support network to navigate the challenges of high school.

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

Ms. Tonya has taught me so much about resilience and the importance of setting achievable goals. Through her, I’ve learned that success isn’t about immediate results but the effort and consistency I put in. She's shown me the value of self-reflection, encouraging me to take time to appreciate small wins and learn from setbacks. Our relationship has also taught me the importance of having a support system that genuinely believes in my potential.

What is your favorite memory from TSIC?

My favorite memory from TSIC is actually our weekly meetings. Every meeting with Ms. Tonya feels like a chance to unwind and talk openly about my week. It’s amazing to have that time just to connect and get advice, and it really helps me get rid of any stress I've been carrying. Those weekly check-ins are a highlight, and they've become something I look forward to because I always leave feeling supported and ready to tackle whatever comes next.

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

After high school, I plan to attend college with a focus on pre-med or a related field. My goal is to eventually work in public health, specifically as a pediatric critical care paramedic, and potentially with a non-profit humanitarian organization like UNICEF. Take Stock has given me a foundation and motivation to pursue these ambitions, and I’m excited to see where my education will take me next!

Mentoring 101:

The Role of the College Success Coach

Over 50 mentors gathered Thursday, November 14, for the quarterly "Mentor Workshop," hosted by TSIC Nassau staff. Program Director, Jacque Banks, and College Success/Completion Coach, Nora Wood, spoke to mentors about the role of the College Success Coach (CSC). The CSC guides the students in course selection for the following year, encourages extracurricular activities, advises on which tests to take and when, and monitors their progress. The group also reviewed the timeline of what is important through each year of high school. As students enter their junior and senior years, their work with the CSC becomes more intense as they start to explore different post-secondary options and work on applications. The mentor provides extra support in the college application process. The mentors are the special sauce in our success formula. Ongoing training and engagement of our mentors enhances our success. The next “Mentor Workshop” will be Saturday, February 1, 2025.  Mentors will hold a roundtable and share best practices.