The George Snow Scholarship Fund is dedicated to helping deserving students within the community achieve their career goals through their pursuit of higher education. By providing financial assistance and a host of supplementary support services, we ensure that your scholarship recipients have the resources they need to thrive academically.
SUCCESS BY THE NUMBERS
The following numbers are based on all scholarship programs administered in south Florida.
CURRENTLY ENROLLED IN COLLEGE
HELPED SINCE 1982
GRADUATION RATE
GRADUATION RATE
*Based on a 6 year graduation rate reported by National Student Clearinghouse
The Fund was established in 1982 as a memorial to George Snow, a Boca Raton developer who lost his life in a helicopter accident in 1980. Mr. Snow moved to Boca Raton in 1958 to take a position as a high school math teacher at what is now Atlantic High School in Delray Beach. Later Mr. Snow moved his career into the fields of real estate and construction, but he always remembered the importance of education and during his lifetime was active in trying to help those individuals who were trying to help themselves. These same ideals are those that shape the mission of the George Snow Scholarship Fund.
Since its inception the Fund has awarded over 31 million dollars in educational grants. In the year 2024 alone, the Scholarship Fund awarded $5,026,664 in scholarships and scholar support services to 375 Snow Scholars. This level of support places the Fund as one of Palm Beach County’s largest sources of educational grants.
Known as experts in scholarship administration, the George Snow Scholarship Fund has developed a reputation for creating innovative programs which address the educational needs of those in our community.
Read About the Unsolved Mystery: THE GEORGE SNOW STORYMeet the George Snow Team
Tim Snow has resided in Boca Raton since 1958 when his family relocated to Boca Raton from Western Pennsylvania. He attended and graduated from Boca Raton High School in 1974 followed by his graduation from Marion Military Institute in Alabama. Under Tim’s leadership, the George Snow Scholarship Fund has been recognized as one of the most respected non-profit organizations in South Florida. Tim’s vision for the Fund included not only providing scholarships but also the development of scholar support programs and services created to ensure the success of the scholars including pre-college physicals, laptops for each scholar and a high school to college transition program.
Jay joined the George Snow Scholarship Fund as the Vice President of Development in January of 2023. Previously, Jay was the Executive Director at St. Jude Catholic Church & School in Boca Raton. He oversaw all development, marketing and personnel for the church, as well as development for the school.
In that 6 year period, Jay helped to raise over $12 Million, including the construction of the Frank & Vera Ferola Education Center and Gymnatorium. Prior to St. Jude, Jay worked at Lynn University as the Director of Major Gifts for 15 years.
Jay moved to Florida from Michigan in 1992 and attended St. John Paul II Academy. He then followed his dream of playing college baseball and attended Lynn University, where he received his Bachelors and Masters in Business Administration.
Jay has been involved and volunteered with many non-profits over the years, including the George Snow Scholarship Fund Selection Committee, The YMCA Advisory Board, The Diocese of Palm Beach DSA Committee and currently sits on the St. John Paul II Academy Advisory Council and Lynn University Athletic Hall of Fame Committee. Jay was inducted into the St. John Paul II Academy Hall of Fame in 2019.
Jay originally got involved with the George Snow Scholarship Fund as a way to give back in appreciation for the scholarship his nephew received and used to graduate from FSU with a Bachelors in Chemical Engineering and went on to complete his Masters and Doctorate from University of Wisconsin.
Jay has two amazing children, TJ and Layla who attend St. John Paul II Academy and Spanish River Community High School.
In his spare time, Jay is also the lead singer of Wolfhawk, a local rock band playing over 50 covers and launched an album of nine original songs in 2022.
Leslie has been part of the George Snow Scholarship Fund family since 2013. As our Vice President of Scholar Services, she maintains close connections with our Snow Scholars, blending her experience as a mother of three and former attorney. She earned her undergraduate degree at the University of Alabama and her law degree at Georgia State University College of Law and was a practicing attorney in Georgia before moving back to South Florida. Leslie’s responsibilities begin with promoting the scholarship at local high schools and helping students who have questions about the application process. She and Channon Ellwood work as a team to provide support and guidance to all of the Snow Scholars. She oversees the selection processes for each of our scholarship programs and works closely with our donors. Her favorite part of the job is meeting each new class of Snow Scholars.
Nikki Hamilton, a proud native of Cleveland, Ohio, moved to Florida to attend Palm Beach Atlantic University. As a first-generation college graduate, she achieved a degree in Organizational Business Management, where she was inducted into Phi Eta Sigma, the oldest National Honor Society.
Nikki began her career journey at The Breakers Palm Beach, where she cultivated invaluable skills, professionalism, and a deep-rooted passion for business and finance.
After a successful career in the beauty and hospitality industry, Nikki sought a deeper sense of purpose and a way to positively impact her community. Transitioning from the corporate world to the non-profit sector, she found fulfillment in organizations like Leadership Palm Beach County and Opportunity Inc. of Palm Beach County. This shift not only allowed Nikki to make a meaningful difference but also brought unexpected enrichment to her life.
Nikki’s dedication to excellence is evident in her effective budget management, expense tracking, and financial data analysis skills. She excels in streamlining processes, ensuring efficiency, and maintaining high standards and accuracy in financial operations. As an advocate for the importance of continuing education, Nikki attends leadership summits and field-specific conferences to enhance her skills and remain effective in her field.
Throughout her career, Nikki has been a dedicated supporter of child-focused charities such as the Connor Moran Children’s Cancer Foundation, Brianna Cooper Heavenly Smiles, Autism Speaks, and as a judge for Project Citizen. She also volunteers as a family spokesperson and victim’s advocate, representing them in front of the parole board. Achieving positive outcomes for families in distress has been one of the most rewarding experiences of her life. Nikki’s advocacy work showcases the incredible impact one person can have on their community.
As a dedicated mother of two sons, Jeremiah and Zachary, Nikki finds solace and rejuvenation by the ocean. Nikki places a strong emphasis on education and is committed to raising the next generation of college graduates. Currently, Jeremiah is a sophomore at Florida Atlantic University, while Zachary is a senior in high school.
Nikki is excited to join the George Snow Scholarship Fund, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to integrate into the team and make meaningful contributions to the organization’s mission.
Dr. Natalie Capiro is a highly accomplished coach with a distinguished educational background and over a decade of experience in supporting college-level students in realizing their full potential. With a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, a Master of Education, and a Master of Business, Dr. Capiro brings a unique blend of expertise in both academic and professional development.
As an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) under the International Coaching Federation (ICF), Dr. Capiro possesses a solid foundation in coaching principles and methodologies. With nearly a decade of coaching experience, she has successfully empowered numerous students to clarify their goals, overcome obstacles, and realize their aspirations.
Throughout Dr. Capiro’s career, she has been deeply committed to empowering students to excel academically, professionally, and personally. By leveraging her extensive educational background and coaching skills, Dr. Capiro excels in guiding students towards fulfilling their aspirations while also connecting them to a multitude of future possibilities.
Dr. Capiro ‘s holistic approach to coaching encompasses personalized guidance, strategic planning, and ongoing support, ensuring that each student discovers their immediate goals but also cultivates the mindset and skills necessary for sustained success in their academic and professional pursuits.
With a passion for unlocking individuals’ potential and a track record of success, Dr. Capiro stands as a trusted partner for students embarking on their educational and career journeys. Her dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to student success make her a valuable asset in empowering the next generation of leaders and professionals.
Channon is a native of South Florida and a first-generation college graduate. She attended Florida Atlantic University where she received her Bachelors of Arts in Communications with a minor in Sociology. Channon wears two hats at The George Snow Scholarship Fund as the Director of Communications & Scholar Services! She works in the Scholar Services Department to educate prospective scholars on the application process and administers support services to current Snow Scholars. She uses her experience as a first-generation college graduate to provide each student with support and guidance during their college careers. Her favorite part of the job is that she can be a support system to students in need. On the Communications side, she oversees all forms of digital marketing for The George Snow Scholarship Fund. She is passionate about community outreach and engagement.
As the Director of Special Events, Amy curates unforgettable fundraisers such as Boca’s Ballroom Battle, Golf Classic, The Rhinestone Cowboy Ball, and more!
Sandra is passionate about helping others and has over 28 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, particularly in interpersonal skills and customer service. Her commitment to making a positive impact has led her to the George Snow Scholarship Fund, where she is eager to support the organization’s mission and collaborate with her colleagues to achieve exceptional results. Sandra’s strengths as a creative thinker, problem solver, and organized team player enhance her contributions to the team.
In her role, Sandra will provide high-level administrative support to the President, Senior Leadership, and the Board of Directors. Her responsibilities include event coordination, volunteer management, and general office administration. These tasks enable her to play a vital role in supporting the organization’s mission by ensuring smooth daily operations and effective collaboration among team members.
Previously, Sandra served as the Marketing Manager at the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, where she managed critical administrative functions that supported the Marketing and Community Engagement team. She also oversaw the rental of the Foundation’s facilities for nonprofit meetings and events, which resulted in increased room rental income and greater visibility for community organizations. Before this role, Sandra served as an Administrative Assistant at the Foundation, providing invaluable support across departments and contributing to more streamlined and efficient operations.
Her professional journey also includes impactful roles at the American Cancer Society, Estée Lauder Co., Century National Bank, and Jamaica Grande Resorts.
Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, Sandra is proud of her Indian and Jamaican heritage. She has called West Palm Beach home for over 30 years. Outside of work, Sandra is a dedicated mother to two adult children and is also a proud parent of several rescue dogs.
Austin Havass is a dynamic educator, mentor and communication specialist deeply committed to empowering students and amplifying diverse voices. Born and raised in South Florida within a Panamanian American household, Austin’s roots are firmly grounded in the vibrant and diverse community of the region. He is also an active alumnus of Florida Atlantic University, where he completed his Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Studies in 2021 and his Master of Arts in Communication Studies in 2023, where he specialized in intercultural communication.
Previously, Austin served as a Youth Care Worker and Advocate towards assisting in the caretaking and reunification of unaccompanied migrant children with families or sponsors within the United States. Fueled with a passion for community and advocacy advancement, Austin served as a Classroom Instructor at Florida Atlantic University from 2021 to 2023, where he passionately shared his expertise in communication, fostering understanding, and collaboration among diverse groups of students. He taught several collegiate-level courses, including an innovative Public Speaking course that encouraged students to self-actualize and confidently address issues that matter to them. His passion for selfless service, community outreach, and advocacy shines through in his work, as he consistently seeks to empower people and students to utilize their voice to become influential and proud contributors to their communities and beyond.
Now, as a Scholar Coordinator for the George Snow Scholarship Fund, Austin Havass continues to build on his mentoring experience while playing a crucial role in identifying and supporting scholars. He remains dedicated to fostering community involvement and outreach, utilizing his South Florida upbringing as a source of inspiration for his commitment to ensuring that unique and diverse voices are not just heard but celebrated within the academic community. Austin’s deep connection to unity and diversity fuels his advocacy and his unwavering commitment to empowering others, amplifying voices, and promoting change.
Bithja Meus is dedicated to empowering students on their academic journeys and ensuring they have the support and resources needed to succeed. Born in Palm Beach County, Bithja was raised in Providence, Rhode Island, and has recently moved back to her hometown community with a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people. With a background in nonprofit management, youth development, and leadership, she is passionate about helping young people thrive and creating pathways for personal and professional growth. As a first-generation Haitian American and college graduate, she holds a B.A. In Youth Development and a Certificate in Nonprofit Studies, and brings a wealth of expertise in program development, community outreach, and mentoring. Bithja’s dedication to service and advocacy is rooted in a strong belief in the power of education and community to transform lives.Â
Ana Berenguer is a dedicated and accomplished Special Events Coordinator at the George Snow Scholarship Fund. With a strong background in Hospitality and Event Management, she plays a key role in planning and executing major events, including Boca’s Ballroom Battle, the Annual Golf Classic, the Cowboy Ball, and the Annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony.
Born in Barcelona, Spain, Ana moved to Cancun, Mexico, before relocating to the United States for high school and college. She graduated from Lynn University in Boca Raton, FL, completing her Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management with a minor in Event Management in the accelerated degree program. During her time at Lynn University, she was a member of the Eta Sigma Delta Society, consistently made the honor roll and dean’s list, and actively participated in the Hospitality Club.
Ana’s international experience includes working at the H10 Art Gallery Hotel and the Formula Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Catalan, Ana brings a diverse and global perspective to her work. Her commitment to excellence and passion for creating memorable experiences has been Ana’s mission entering the hospitality and events industry, making Ana a leader in customer satisfaction.
Outside of her professional life, Ana enjoys traveling, networking, and spending time with her family. She is driven by a philosophy of continuous learning and growth and believes in the power of positive relationships.
At the heart of all good non-profits is the organization's leadership. The George Snow Scholarship Fund is blessed to have a wonderful group of dedicated individuals serving on our Board of Trustees and our Professional Advisory Committee. Each of them gives their time, talent and/or treasure to ensure that the George Snow Scholarship Fund flourishes and continues to take a leadership role in providing scholarships and the Scholar Support Services that enhance our scholar’s college experience.
BoardSpot Portal- Officers
- Trustees
- Trustee Emeritus
- PAC
- Selection Committee
TIMOTHY G. SNOW
President
ROBIN M. DEYO
ChairÂ
LISA K. KAUFMAN
Secretary
STEPHEN L. HASKINS
Treasurer
JERRY J. FEDELE
Past Chair
Frank A. Barbieri, Jr.
John W. Clidas
Daniel A. Davidowitz
Nancy L. Dockerty
Douglas K. Fash
Christina M. Fuentes
Ingrid A. Fulmer
David R. Hofer
Elias M. Janetis
Paige N. Kornblue
Matthew H. Maschler
Emmanuel L. McNeely
Danielle A. Rosse
Savannah G. Snow
Eduardo L. Sordo
Kyle R. Stewart
Albert J. Travasos
Andrea L. Virgin
John (Jay) D. Whelchel, Jr.
Van P. Williams
Brad R. Winstead
William Altier*
M.J. Mike Arts
Brian K. Duffey*
Robert W. Ingalls*
Donald A. Marra*
Jeffery E. Snow
Jennifer S. Snow
Sandra C. Snow*
Joel T. Strawn
Joseph W. Veccia
*Deceased
The Professional Advisory Council provides information and resources on planned giving to the donors, staff and stakeholders of the George Snow Scholarship Fund. The Professional Advisory Council consists of highly regarded professionals who practice in the area of estate planning and charitable giving. Our members include: estate planning attorneys, CPA’s, bank and trust officers, insurance and investment professionals. Our team has experience and expertise in the areas of philanthropy and planned giving techniques. Members of the Professional Advisory Council can work with your existing professional advisors providing a collaborative process for exploring optimal gift planning.
Professional Advisory Council (PAC) Members 2024
Karolina Bednarska
Evelyn Buitrago
Savannah Cabrera Snow
Debbie Cancilla
John W. Clidas
Ana Diaz
Daniel Fleischer
Jeffrey Fromknecht
Scott Goldberger
Josh Goldglantz
Seth Kaplan
George Karibjanian
Sara Kelley
Lanny Marks
Marina McCleneghen
Leslie McCullough
Duane MerchantÂ
Brad Milhauser
Brad Mitchell
Ross O’Connor
Deborah Packer Goodall
Linda Paige
Gregory Reynolds
Andy Rudoff
Mark Schaum
Brian Singer
Ed Smith
Sydney Smith Kocker
Samantha Vassallo
Debbie Venezi
Mark Walters
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Ruben Abarca | Lisa Kaufman |