About the Program

The Stein Fellowship is a year-long program focused on leadership and mentorship. Each fall, a careful selection process chooses a young professional leader through an application, interview and recommendation review. Once selected, each Fellow serves as a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters throughout the academic year. Fellows are also paired with a United Way’s Tocqueville Society member, gaining professional guidance and building relationships — all with the shared goal of giving back.

Inspired by the vision of philanthropists Linda and the late David Stein, the fellowship strengthens our community by connecting leaders across generations. It is designed to identify, engage and support young professionals committed to making a lasting impact through philanthropy.

Who are the Fellows?

Stein Fellowship graduates become part of a vibrant, global network of young professionals committed to their communities and philanthropic efforts.

• Rising or mid-career leaders dedicated to philanthropy, community and progress
• Full-time residents of Northeast Florida
• At least two years of industry experience
• People, process and project management savvy
• Thought-leaders and committed to regular mentoring sessions

Fellowship Commitment and Expectations

Upon acceptance into the fellowship, members will receive a comprehensive calendar outlining events for the upcoming year. Fellows are expected to prioritize attendance to minimize absences throughout the program.

• Applicants must be aged between 21 and 40 years old.
• Applicants must also join United Way’s Atlantic Circle rising professionals group, with an annual commitment of $500. You can contribute now or through your workplace campaign.
• Fellows must commit to a weekly one-hour mentoring session, not including travel time.
• Any unexcused absence from a scheduled Big Brothers Big Sisters visit may result in termination of the fellowship.
• Attendance at all events is mandatory, except for one permitted absence during the program with prior notification. These exciting collaborations include mentoring orientations, Meet ALICE experience, volunteer opportunities, leadership retreats, community conversations and more!

Fellowship Application Requirement and Process

A selection committee of Stein Fellowship alumni and respected members of the Tocqueville Society will carefully assess all applications to ensure a fair and comprehensive evaluation.

Prospective applicants are required to complete the following steps:

• Fill out and submit the online application form. Note that incomplete applications will not be considered, so please ensure all sections are completed accurately. The application is closed for the Class of 2026.
• Submit a current resume detailing your professional experience, qualifications and relevant achievements.
• Provide a video message responding to the prompt, “What are three key steps an individual can take to create a community of opportunity where everyone has hope and can reach their full potential?“ The video should be two minutes or less in duration in .mp4 format.
• Obtain a letter of recommendation from your current employer, preferably on official letterhead, along with contact information for referral purposes.
• Secure a letter of personal recommendation from a coworker or previous manager (non-family member), including personal contact information for referral verification.
• Make a minimum gift or pledge of $500, serving as membership into the Atlantic Circle rising professionals group. This contribution must be directed to United Way’s Community Impact Fund and should not include corporate match programs. Donations can be made through your employer’s United Way corporate campaign or online.*
• For an example of the Stein Fellowship rubric, click here.

*Recurring gifts (weekly, monthly, or quarterly) are permitted as long as the $500 is paid in full by the end of the fellowship year (graduation).