Barnabas Center announces 2026 Hometown Heroes nominees

Barnabas Center announces the 2026 Hometown Heroes — individuals recognized for their outstanding impact on youth in Nassau County.

These local champions will be honored at the 5th annual Hometown Heroes Fashion Show, taking place February 23, 2026, at Mocama Beer Company in Fernandina Beach.

Each year, through the Hometown Heroes Fashion Show, Barnabas Center celebrates community members who quietly and faithfully support others and young people, including coaches, mentors, educators, caregivers, and advocates.

The 2026 event theme, “Believers in Our Youth,” shines a spotlight on those who dedicate their time, talent, and heart to helping young people thrive.

In addition to celebrating these inspiring nominees, the event will feature a runway show, silent auction, and community celebration, with proceeds supporting Barnabas Center’s mission to provide food, health care, and empowerment services to neighbors in need.

2026 Hometown Heroes Nominees

Barb Kent — Rotaract
Sarah Twardy — Nassau County Teacher of the Year, Fernandina Beach High School
Dr. Kathy Burns — Superintendent of Schools, Nassau County School District
Mollie Cressey — Homeless Liaison for the McKinney-Vento Program, Nassau County School District
Bryce Nelson — Fernandina Beach High School Football Assistant Coach, Offensive Coordinator
Lisa Sala — Religious Formation Director, St. Michael’s
Dearsha Johnson — Director of Children’s Merchandising and Programming, Story & Song
Rob Gibson — Fernandina Beach Youth Tennis
Daisy Hester — America’s Youth
Shuala Martin — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida
Lena Ramsay — Area Manager, Nassau County, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida
Jacque Banks — Program Director, Take Stock in Children
Eric Kubatzke, Pat & Jeremy Ferry — Fernandina Beach Wrestling Club
Frances Peters — Founder of Front Porch Beads