Biography of Christina Pepin
Executive Director Pepin Family Foundation
Christina Pepin, known professionally as Tina Pepin, serves as the Executive Director of the Pepin Family Foundation, guiding philanthropic initiatives throughout Tampa Bay, Florida As a third-generation philanthropist, she continues a family legacy grounded in service, compassion, and responsible community leadership Her work focuses on public safety, healthcare, education, and mental health, supporting programs that create long-term and measurable impact across the region
Tina draws inspiration from her grandfather, who was allowed to attend college by a family he served That experience shaped his lifelong commitment to giving to givers and investing in those who dedicate themselves to helping others Tina remains committed to honoring the values and mission established by both her father and grandfather, ensuring their dedication to service continues through each generation.
Over the years, the Foundation and its family have contributed to many charitable organizations, including the Chief of Police Foundation, Tampa Police Department, the Suncoast PBA, Hands Across the Bay, Arise Alliance, Vincent Jackson Foundation, Hook A Hero, Operation Restore, and many more These partnerships reflect an ongoing commitment to strengthening community institutions and supporting initiatives that address real and pressing needs.
The Pepin Academies
Founded in 1999, The Pepin Academies is a nonprofit, tuition-free public charter school educating third through 12th-grade students, along with a transitional job training program for 18- to 22-year-old students Tina Pepin supports a school system that now serves more than 1,200 students and has graduated over 850 individuals. Campuses operate in Hillsborough County in Tampa and Riverview, and in New Port Richey serving Pasco County Qualified students receive therapy at no cost, including access to social workers, mental health counselors, occupational therapists, physical therapists, sensory integration services, and speech language programs.
She served on the board of Pepin Academies for nearly three years and values the individualized learning model that promotes academic achievement and personal growth. The school environment encourages students to feel supported, respected, and prepared for continued education or employment
Tina also supports the Foundation’s involvement with Pepin’s Hospitality Centre, a space that celebrates community culture and cuisine The venue provides opportunities for residents, nonprofit organizations, and civic leaders to connect and collaborate, strengthening Tampa Bay
Pepin Heart Institute
As part of the Pepin Family Foundation’s longstanding healthcare commitment, Tina Pepin actively supports the mission of the Pepin Heart Institute Established in 1986 by Tom and Arthur Pepin, the Institute works to eradicate heart disease through research and patient-centered care. Her efforts include advocating for initiatives that improve cardiac outcomes and expand access to advanced medical treatment
This work reflects a broader focus on healthcare advancement and responsible community investment By supporting research and patient services, the Foundation contributes to improved cardiovascular health and sustainable medical progress
Public Safety a Priority
Currently, Tina prioritizes public safety through mental health and resiliency initiatives. Through the Foundation, she supports law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, and other frontline professionals who regularly experience traumatic events while serving their communities
She believes that serving those who protect others is essential for strong communities Christina Pepin helped develop a program with the University of South Florida during a nursing crisis in Tampa to assist young nursing professionals. The Foundation partners with
the Tampa Police Department to enhance officer wellness, resiliency training, and mental health programs. It also supports Sun Coast Police Benevolent Association President Jonathan Vazquez and General Counsel and Executive Director Sasha Lohn, Esq., in launching a first-of-its-kind law enforcement mental health college certificate program that allows active and retired officers to earn college credits and an applied mental health certificate.
These initiatives operate through the Foundation alongside additional investments in healthcare and education, all structured to create lasting community impact
Recognized for Her Dedication, Her Work
Tina Pepin is recognized for encouraging collaboration among community organizations and ensuring that institutions serving the public have the support they need Her leadership builds upon the work of her family, including the creation of Pepin Academies and the Pepin Heart Institute.
She has supported programs such as the USF Pepin Family Summer Nursing Pathway Program and expanded mental health resources for first responders. Her board service includes AdventHealth Tampa, Leadership Tampa Bay, the Suncoast Alliance for First Responders, and the Mental Health Advisory Committee
In January 2026, Tina Pepin was recognized for her support of Rise Tampa, the official Foundation for the Tampa Police Department She has also received honors, including the Tampa Police Department's Chief's Appreciation Award, Able Trust's Champion of Opportunity Award, and Suncoast PBA's Civilian of the Year Award.
Education
Tina graduated from Belmont University Jack C Massey College of Business with a Bachelor of Business Administration BBA in 2021 She participated in the Winterline Global Education program, gaining experience in entrepreneurship and business through engagement with global hubs and startups in the United States and Asia. She pitched a new business venture to a panel of entrepreneurs at MIT in Boston She studied management and international business with students at the Prashad School in Mumbai, India, while visiting startup businesses in India, Singapore, and Cambodia.
Christina Pepin remains dedicated to strengthening public safety, advancing healthcare initiatives, expanding educational access, and supporting long-term community development throughout Tampa Bay. Through steady leadership and ongoing service, she upholds her family’s philanthropic legacy while creating meaningful opportunities for future generations
