31 Mar April Spotlight 2025
This month’s student-mentor spotlight is mentor Erma Brutscher and her mentee, Reagan Miller, from Yulee High School. The two have been matched since March 2021.
ERMA BRUTSCHER, Mentor
What do you consider to be your hometown? How long have you lived in Fernandina Beach?
Auburn, Maine is my hometown. We have been part time Amelia Island residents for over 20 years, and full time for the last 8 years.
What made you decide to mentor with Take Stock?
Our neighbors Jim and Regina Lee introduced us to TSIC, and how it benefits so many deserving young people in Nassau County. I had mentored many women during my career and watched them grow and improve their lives as a result.
How many students have you mentored?
Just 1, as I am new to the program
What have you gained from mentoring Reagan?
I raised sons so working with a young lady was a new and great experience. I have enjoyed watching her learn, mature, and become a more confident wonderful young lady. We experienced restrictions due to Covid early on and it was nice when I could finally talk with her and see her face (lol!).
REAGAN MILLER, Yulee High School
Why did you want to apply for Take Stock?
I applied for Take Stock because I thought it would be a good opportunity and a good resource since I didn’t know much about applying to colleges.
What have you learned from your relationship with your mentor, Erma?
I have learned to be better at advocating for myself and getting out of my comfort zone more.
What is your favorite memory from TSIC?
My favorite memory from TSIC is meeting my mentor. At first it was a little scary because I didn’t know what to expect but I’m very happy to have gotten a mentor who is very nice and I can relate to.
What are your plans after you graduate high school and TSIC?
After graduating, my plans are to pursue a degree in early education.