Empowering the youth of Nantucket to reach their fullest potential

From April 21–25, 2025, the Nantucket Boys & Girls Club took a bold step in expanding educational access for island youth. For the first time in our 80-year history, the Club organized an off-island college tour, bringing ten Nantucket High School students to North Carolina to visit three Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs): Winston-Salem State University, North Carolina A&T State University, and North Carolina Central University. For many participants, this marked their first time visiting colleges outside the Northeast—an opportunity to broaden their perspectives and imagine futures beyond familiar surroundings. Students Rihanna C., Jazmine F., Travon J., Ebony M., Gaven S., Vallon J., TQ S., Kellyane R., Nicoli M., and Rashaun W. traveled alongside Club staff Joseph H. and Emily M. for the five-day trip during April school break. “Getting off-island and seeing what’s out there—it meant a lot to these kids,” said Joe. “They were curious, engaged, and open to the experience. You could tell it made a difference.” The group departed Nantucket on Monday, April 21, taking the ferry to Hyannis before traveling to Logan Airport and flying into Raleigh-Durham. Each day was packed with activity—from guided campus tours and student-led Q&As to group dinners and recreational outings including Topgolf and the North Carolina Zoo. A highlight for many was a lively step show at Winston-Salem State University, which brought energy, culture, and school spirit to the forefront of the tour. Beyond the activities, the experience gave students a firsthand look at college life and sparked conversations about future goals. One participant even took the initiative to connect with a college coach about athletic opportunities—a powerful example of what exposure and encouragement can lead to. This trip represents more than a milestone—it reflects the Club’s long-standing commitment to education as a core pillar of youth development. From our Club Jr. preschoolers learning foundational skills to our teens navigating college readiness, the Nantucket Boys & Girls Club is proud to walk alongside our members every step of the way. As we celebrate our 80th anniversary, this tour symbolizes the direction we’re heading: forward, outward, and always in support of the next generation of Nantucket leaders. Thank you to the McHenry-Assaf family for making this trip possible. Your support gave our students the chance to explore new opportunities and take meaningful steps toward their future.