3. PACE Jacksonville Alumna Attends
United State of Women Summit
WASHINGTON, D.C. – PACE Center for Girls Jacksonville Execu-
tive Director Dr. Renee McQueen and alumna Madeline Read trav-
eled to Washington D.C. this week to attend the first White House
Summit on The United State of Women. The event was attended by
more than 5,000 leaders from across the county who are involved
in advocacy and policy advancement related to women and girls.
Speakers included President
Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle
Obama, Vice President Joe Bidden,
Attorney General Loretta Lynch,
Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi,
Warren Buffet, Oprah Winfrey, and
Billie Jean King. Plenary Session
included speakers and panels
discussing topics such as Violence
Against Women, Health and Well-
ness, and Economic Empower-
ment for Women on a national and
global scale.
Read, who completed her 8th
grade year at the PACE Center for
Girls Jacksonville is emblematic
of many PACE girls who have overcome personal challenges that
many would be daunted by. ‘Every girl at PACE has her own story
and her own struggles” shared Read. “PACE has been important
to me and helped me set my own goals and gain the confidence I
needed to know I can accomplish them”. Dr. McQueen invited Read
to attend the event with her due to the teen’s personal leadership
skills. “PACE believes that every girl deserves a life defined by re-
sponsibility, dignity, serenity and grace. I am inspired by the man-
ner in which Maddie lives her life. She’s had so much thrown at her
but always remains on the high road, never succumbing to self-
doubt and remains focused on how bright her future can be. That
is why she was chosen to participate in the “Voice of Experience,”
discussion during the “Girls at the Center: Understanding Obstacles
and Exploring Solutions” panel. Maddie has taken what she learned
at PACE and is applying those skills in every aspect of her life.”
“How can I say what was the best part? I was in the same room
with President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, Vice
President Joe Bidden, Oprah, AND Amy Poehler!” Read said. “I
learned so much about what girls and women around the world
face and it was exciting to hear from so many amazing women who
want to be part of a solution”.
PACE Center for Girls was invited to the conference as a result of
being honored with the Inaugural Accelerating Change Award by
the Center for the Study of Social Policy. The national award recog-
nized PACE for its track record of serving young women and girls of
color who are at high risk of public systems involvement.
It’s such an honor for PACE to receive this award and be recog-
nized as a leader in serving girls at risk” stated Dr. McQueen. “We
roll up our sleeves and do the hard work with our girls every day. I
appreciated the opportunity to pause and reflect and celebrate the
amazing opportunity that PACE can be for girls who want to be the
change they want to see. It was great to share the experience with
Maddie who is a PACE success story”.
Jacksonville and Beyond
See how PACE is making waves both state and nationwide.
4 Profiles 5Profiles
Volunteer
Spotlight
NuStar Energy
PACE Jacksonville cherishes the innumerable con-
tributions of our faithful and generous volunteers. This
month we are giving special recognition to NuStar Ener-
gy, a group of volunteers who have shown an admirable
dedication to serving both staff and girls at PACE. We
spoke with Mary Morris, Executive Director of NuStar
Energy, and Tommie Taylor, Terminal Manager, about
the rewarding experience of volunteering here at PACE
Jacksonville.
What is the most rewarding facet of serving with
PACE Center for Girls Jacksonville?
It is so rewarding to volunteer for such a great organi-
zation as PACE - especially when we are able to see the
dramatic progress in the girls from their social situations
to their outlook for a future of successes.
Which PACE volunteer projects are yourself and
NuStar most proud of?
NuStar is most proud of the treats that are provided
to the staff each month. There is a tremendous amount
of focus on the girls and rightfully so. However, we feel
that it is just as important that the staff is recognized on
an ongoing basis for all they do to provide such an amaz-
ing support system that they provide to the girls and their
families.
How and when did NuStar’s relationship with
PACE begin?
We first became involved with PACE in 2008. One of
our employees attended a United Way event and became
acquainted with a PACE representative. We have been
involved with PACE ever since!
Are there any new volunteer projects you hope to
begin with PACE in the future? If so, what are they?
We plan to provide lunch for the staff several times
a year as another means of recognizing them for all that
they do to enrich the lives of the PACE girls and their
families.
If you could tell the Jacksonville community any-
thing about PACE Jacksonville, what would it be?
That PACE is more than a school. It provides a posi-
tive environment on a daily basis and allows the girls to
overcome life’s challenges and enrich their future. It is
truly a place where lives are changed for the better. The
fact that the PACE continues to support the girls once
they transition from PACE speaks volumes. It truly com-
municates that they are fully invested in ensuring that the
girls continue to make progress and reach their ultimate
potential.
PACE Girl Spotlight
PACE Alumnae Graduate from
UNF and Jacksonville University
JACKSONVILLE, FL – April 30, 2016 was a day of celebration for Anas-
tasia and Toni. The PACE Jacksonville alumnae graduated from Jackson-
ville University and the University of North Florida, respectively. Both
young women were recipients of scholarships provided by generous
donors collaborating with PACE Jacksonville to provide young women
the opportunity to attend college. These scholarships, provided by
Schidel, ATT, the Andrus Healy Foundation, and Jacksonville University,
have changed the lives of young women immeasurably. Take a look at
how your contributions have shaped the futures of these two incredible
young women.
Anastasia
B.A. in Aviation, Jacksonville University
Healy Foundation and Jacksonville University
Scholarship Recipient
During her childhood, Anastasia experienced
family hardship and loss that left her hurt and
doubtful of her potential. At PACE she was pro-
vided the support, resources, and nurture that
propelled her into a bright future. She says the
following about her experience with PACE:
“I felt like I could open up to the girls around me
who I knew understood me…I am grateful for PACE. They caught me
after a very hard fall and gave me the tools I needed to climb out of the
hole that I had dug. I am proud to say that now, because of PACE and the
scholarship I received, I am a graduate of Jacksonville University with a
Bachelor’s degree in Aviation.”
Toni
B.S. Criminology, University of North Florida
Schidel Scholarship & ATT Pioneers Scholar-
ship Recipient
Toni spent her childhood in a broken home.
She was gifted, yet hindered by emotional and
environmental obstacles. She was able to find the
structure and support she needed at PACE. The
following is an excerpt from Toni’s scholarship
essay, written during the time of her high school
graduation:
“On his last rope, my dad was able to get me into PACE Center for Girls.
This is when my life changed. My academics soared. I was fortunate to be
accepted into PACE. I honestly don’t know where I would be now without
it. Today I am a woman that does not allow any roadblock or short-
coming to dictate her life. I will continue my success as a student, I will
maintain my 4.0 GPA, and I will maintain the desire for success and the
strength to allow me to reach my goals.”
Standing years after her transition from PACE and recent matricula-
tion through college, she has indeed maintained her drive for success.
Toni and Anastasia are testaments to the lasting impact that PACE has
on young women – unlocking destiny and giving them hope for a future.
To the donors that made this possible, thank you for your commitment
to believe in girls with us.
4. Portraits of PACE
Luncheon
Jacksonville and Beyond
PACE Center for Girls, Inc. Commences a National
Believing in Girls Movement
ORLANDO, FL – In January,
PACE Center for Girls Inc. hosted
the first annual All About Girls
Summit in Orlando, Florida. The
summit was a convening of PACE
employees, advocates, and sup-
porters from across the state and
nation.
Special keynote speakers in-
cluded Chelsea Clinton, Olym-
pic gold-medalist Dominique
Dawes, and Gabrielle Union. The
summit featured panels hosted
by note-worthy leaders such
as Judy Vrendenburgh, CEO of
Girls Inc., Beverly Bond, Founder
and Executive Director of Black
Girls Rock! Inc., Roxanne Spil-
lett, President Emeritus of Boys &
Girls Club of America, and more.
Panel sessions discussed perti-
nent initiatives to improve the
lives of young women in America,
including strategic conversations
on leading a national movement
for girls, bringing men to the table
of girls’ issues, sexual abuse, and
serving girls of color.
The summit was closed with a
charge for the future - to propel
the Believing in Girls Movement
nationwide, fostering long-term
collaboration amongst the vast
array of advocates, leaders,
and resources that convened in
Orlando for the summit. PACE
Jacksonville’s administrative,
academic, and social service
staff were pleased to take part
in this groundbreaking move-
ment for girls under the initiative
of PACE Center for Girls, Inc.
Here at PACE Jacksonville, we
look forward to catalyzing this
nationwide revolution for girls,
and we are honored to support
the vision and initiative of PACE
Center for Girls, Inc.
The 2017 All About Girls Sum-
mit will be held on April 6-8th at
the Hyatt Regency Orlando. We
will be joined by award-winning
journalist Soledad O’Brien
on April 7th as our breakfast
keynote. For a full list of keynote
speakers, itinerary, and
registration details visit
allaboutgirlssummit.com.
*photos courtesy of allaboutgirlssummit.com
PACE Jacksonville Girls Share
Their Voices at the Capitol
TALLAHASSEE, FL – “No matter what
people tell you, your words and ideas can
change the world.” – Robin Williams
This was indeed true for ten PACE
Jacksonville girls who visited the Capitol
in February. PACE Day at the Capitol, an
annual event held during legislative session
in Tallahassee, Florida, was home to a sea of
red and white on February 2, 2016. On this
day, ten of our PACE Jacksonville girl ambas-
sadors were able to share their voices on the
importance of PACE with our state’s leaders.
The experience was one of mutual empow-
erment – while senators and representatives
learned more about the rich legacy and
impact of PACE, our student ambassadors
had the chance to envision life as a state
leader. A notable moment was when PACE
girls participated in a mock bill hearing –
they were able to sit in the Florida House of
Representatives chamber, advocate for a bill,
and approve of its passing. Chloe, one of the
PACE Jacksonville student ambassadors to
attend the trip, says the following:
“Going to the Capitol for the first time
made me consider serving in office one
day. When I met the legislators and learned
about their passions, I realized I can pursue
my dreams and also help others through
working at the Capitol.”
The trip to Tallahassee also featured a
tour of the governor’s mansion, visits to the
campuses of both Florida State University
and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical
University, and attending a PACE Girls Night
Out event hosted by PACE Leon.
We are happy to support our PACE girls
as they find their voices for advocacy and
broaden their horizons.
6 Profiles 7Profiles
5. PACE Jacksonville is excited to welcome
Gordon F. Bailey III as the new Board of
Directors Chair. Gordon has been a significant
component of PACE Jacksonville’s success.
Here he talks about what makes his service
to PACE rewarding:
“I was introduced to
PACE Center for Girls
through Maribel Hernandez,
a Florida Blue colleague
and former PACE Center
board member. Her passion
for helping girls in need
inspired me to get involved
in PACE beginning in 2013.
During my service on the
PACE Center Board, the
most rewarding facet for
me has been witnessing
the transformation of
PACE girls through the amazing work of the PACE Center staff.
Recently, I saw the life changing work provided by PACE Center
again as I watched PACE girls cross the stage in our special
annual high school graduation ceremony. My wish is for every
PACE girl to have the experience of achieving a high school
diploma that propels her into a bright future.”
Words from Former Board Chair,
Laura Gonzales:
“I was introduced
to PACE by CREW
(Commercial Real Estate
Women) Jacksonville
in 2005. Through my
involvement with PACE
through CREW I was given
the opportunity to serve
on the PACE Jacksonville
local Board of Directors
and joined the Board in
20XX. I have served on the
Development Committee
since joining the Board, was
the Treasurer and then became the Board Chair from 2012-2015.
The most rewarding facet of servicing on the PACE Jacksonville
is being able to watch the girls grow. They come in typically
traumatized from an unfortunate event in their lives and are
behind in class. They need someone to understand them and help
them. PACE teaches the girls unconditional love and self-esteem
while offering counseling and academic advising. Girls leave
PACE as confident women ready to face any challenges they are
presented. The one-on-one involvement with the girls is so special.
Our motto “Once a PACE girl always a PACE girl” rings true. No
matter how long a girl has been away from PACE, they have our
support. PACE will continue to make a difference in the lives of
girls and their communities.”
We are honored to have experienced the leadership of Laura
Gonzales, former Board of Directors Chair. Thank you Laura for
your past and continued involvement and investment into PACE
Jacksonville!
PACE Jacksonville Board
Welcomes New Leadership
Center Highlights
2016 PACE Graduation
There’s plenty of exciting things happening at the
PACE Jacksonville center. Check out some of the most recent events.
JACKSONVILLE, FL – In an auditorium
adorned with joyful tears and loving
applause, PACE Center for Girls
Jacksonville celebrated the promising
futures of 11 high school graduates.
The 2016 PACE Graduation ceremony,
hosted at Jacksonville University’s
Swisher Theater, featured keynote
speaker Rep. Charles
McBurney, PACE
Executive Director
Dr. Renee McQueen,
Duval County
Public Schools
Executive Director of
Alternative Schools
Dr. Pamela M. Davis,
and several family
members, friends,
and volunteers
that gathered to
champion the achievements of the 2016
PACE Jacksonville class. A reception
immediately followed courtesy of
Uptown Civitan, and gifts for the
graduates were provided by Sassy Ink
Design, Miss First Coast USA Sarah
Rogers, Versona, and Ilano Technologies.
In his call to action addressed to PACE
graduates, Rep. Charles McBurney
encouraged the girls to take active
leadership in their communities. As a
long-time supporter of PACE, he was
presented with the 2016 Believing in
Girls Legislative Award in recognition of
his advocacy efforts for PACE girls. Dr.
Renee McQueen, Executive Director of
PACE Jacksonville, shared a message on
behalf of PACE Center for Girls, Inc. CEO
Mary Marx, as well as heartfelt words
of her own: “Henry Ford
said, you can’t learn in
school what the world
is going to do next year.
PACE says, value the
wisdom of time and focus
on strengths. These are
two of seven guiding
principles that PACE
taught you. Don’t forget
lessons already learned!”
PACE graduates
were each recognized
individually for their exceptional
character and perseverance in the midst
of incredible obstacles. The 2016 PACE
Jacksonville class is being considered
for over $50,000 in scholarships, made
possible by the generous donations
of Andrus Healy, the AT&T Pioneer
Scholarship Fund, Brenda Jackson
Empowerment Scholarship Fund,
Mildred Thompson and Family
Scholarship Fund, and the Herbert and
Miyuki Scheidel Endowed Scholarship.
PACE Jacksonville honors the
continual commitment of community
volunteers, donors, family, and friends to
believe in the potential of girls.
BOARD & VOLUNTEER UPDATES
PACE Jacksonville Board Member Recognized at Jacksonville University
Our very own board member, Dr. Colleen Wilson, was awarded the honor of Jacksonville University’s Professor of the Year.
Dr. Wilson is the Chair of the School of Education at Jacksonville University, and has shown honorable dedication and
commitment to education and the Jacksonville University community. Congratulations Colleen.
8 Profiles Profiles 9
6. Center Highlights
PACE Jacksonville rolled out the red carpet for a Hollywood-
themed evening. The 2016 PACE Prom was a star-studded
success! Check out some of the highlights below:
The 15th annual PACE Prom was founded to provide the
right-of-passage prom experience for PACE girls. PACE
Jacksonville allows its high school girls to take part in this
night, giving them the change to celebrate a most memorable
time in their lives. It is especially meant to honor PACE
girls who may not have the opportunity to participate in
a traditional prom experience. The PACE Prom is made
possible in large by contributions from charitable donors and
volunteers. Each year, PACE receives hundreds of dresses and
accessory donations which girls can shop from for free.
Miss Jacksonville 2016 Provides
PACE Girl with Glamour Prom Night
2016 PACE Prom:
A Night in Hollywood
Special thanks to
Taylor Winbush,
who holds the title
for Miss Jacksonville
2015, conducted a
2016 PACE Prom
Sweepstakes.
Contestants were asked
to write an essay explaining why they love PACE,
and what true beauty means to them. Our PACE
winner, Khaja A., was provided with an all-
expense paid hair and makeup session, dress,
photoshoot, and limo ride courtesy of the 2016
PACE Prom Sweepstakes. Thank you Taylor for
your amazing investment into our girls! Read an
excerpt from Khaja’s award-winning essay below:
“Why do I love PACE Center for Girls? PACE
is unlike any other center in Duval County. The
staff, administrators, teachers, and support
staff go above and beyond their duties. These
professionals are always helpful, encouraging,
cooperative, and determined to see us succeed.
They display love for us by talking to us about
many different situations, teaching, counseling,
and setting high expectations for the girls. They
keep an open line of communication with our
families and keep them informed of our progress.
As a young woman of this unique school setting, I
am learning many lessons, both academically and
socially.
I pride myself on the many lessons I’ve learned
an am still learning as it relates to handling
difficult situations and resolving conflicts. When
I initially started PACE, my nerves got the best
of me and I thought I might not like it. Looking
back with a greater understanding, PACE is an
educational experience to cherish. I can now
embrace my individual “inner beauty” and I owe
that to PACE. I am beautiful on the inside and out!
Because of PACE, I now resolve peer conflict
the right way. This center teaches all girls to honor
the female spirit, focus on our strengths, value
the principles of life, and provide opportunities
for us to get back on track and remain there.
The counselors and academic advisors are
determined to see me graduate from high school
and make my dreams realities. Daily we hear that
PACE girls are willing, caring, encouraging, fierce,
boundless, and determined. Once we realize our
individual dreams, we will not allow anyone or
anything to stand in the way of us achieving them.
VisionCare, GE
Everbank
Chanel’s Closet
CSX
Dana’s
Construction DJ
Kosters
Photographer
ATT Pioneers
Lisa Ilano
Taylor Winbush
On April 15th, Jacksonville University hosted its 2nd annual JU
Charter Day, which aims to honor the legacy of Jacksonville University
and the livelihood of community organizations in the Arlington region.
PACE Jacksonville was proud to be one of Jacksonville University’s
Charter Day sites for the second year. JU volunteers visited PACE and
provided a host of great services. These included restoring the Seeds
for Change garden, cleaning PACE vans, kitchen, activity center, and
lobby areas, as well as organizing the supply room. Additionally, the
JU Girls Volleyball team hosted a clinic with 10 PACE girls, where they
were able to learn the ins and outs of competitive volleyball through a
fun and interactive session. PACE is grateful to Jacksonville University
for their continued tradition of community investment.
2nd Annual JU Charter Day
11Profiles10 Profiles
7. Editor Dr. Renee McQueen, Executive Director
Writer Sabreen Brown
Thank you to Key 3 Creative for the design and
printing of the newsletter.
Carmen Kay Photography
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These generous donors allow us to continue to provide, and improve upon, the services we offer that change the lives of girls and young women.
