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News Topic: Academic Programs & Education

From Training to the Front Lines: Indian River State College Graduates Two New Classes of Public Safety Professionals
Corrections Academy Class #178 graduates celebrate their completion of the rigorous 420-hour Basic Recruit Training Program, marking the beginning of their careers as correctional officers in state and federal facilities.
FORT PIERCE, Fla., (Sept. 19, 2025) – Indian River State College’s Criminal Justice Institute successfully graduated two distinguished classes from its Public Service Academy: Law Enforcement Academy Class #181 and Corrections Academy Class #178. These ceremonies celebrated the completion of intensive training programs that prepared graduates for critical roles in Florida’s criminal justice system.
Corrections Academy Class #178 Graduation

Corrections Academy Class #178 celebrated its achievement on Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, at Indian River State College. The ceremony recognized graduates who completed one of the most comprehensive corrections training programs in the state.
Each graduate successfully completed the Basic Recruit Training Program (Corrections), which included over 420 hours of classroom instruction and hands-on practical exercises. This comprehensive training provided them with the skills needed to effectively work with inmates while exercising professionalism. Their lessons on how to effectively communicate, interact with, and respond to a range of populations will help ensure their safety and the safety of others.
The curriculum included inmate supervision and custody procedures, use of force protocols and legal standards, defensive tactics and officer safety, communication and de-escalation skills, emergency response procedures, report writing and documentation, ethics and professional standards, legal standards governing corrections, facility security protocols, and contraband detection and searches.
“I am incredibly proud of the individuals who graduated, as they demonstrated the discipline, responsibility, and professionalism required to serve in one of the most demanding roles in the criminal justice system,” noted Indian River State College President Timothy E. Moore. “This represented a critical step in building a strong and capable corrections workforce that will serve our communities with dedication and integrity.”
Corrections Academy Class #178 graduates are Elizabeth Alvarez, Quinn Bostic, Frankz Davila, Travis Garrison, Alicia Hilario, Indiony Jean-Baptiste, Vanessa Johnson, Hannah Newsome, Marc Rediker, Alani Rodriguez, Sherlyn Salgado, Monique Samuels, Vincent Saputo, Isabella Saucedo, Matthew Sellers, Jacob Smith, Joseline Uribe-Godinez, and Dominic Witherow.
Corrections Academy graduates are now qualified for positions including correctional officers in state and federal facilities, juvenile detention officers, probation and parole officers (with additional certification), court security officers, transportation officers, private corrections facility staff, and rehabilitation program coordinators.
Law Enforcement Academy Class #181 Graduation
Law Enforcement Academy Class #181 graduated Sept. 3, 2025. The ceremony was attended by friends, family, community leaders, and media who gathered to honor these new guardians of public safety.
Law Enforcement Academy Class #181 graduates celebrate their completion of the rigorous 770-hour Florida Basic Recruit Training Program, marking the beginning of their careers in law enforcement and public service.
Graduates successfully completed a demanding 770-hour Florida Basic Recruit Training Program that encompassed comprehensive instruction across multiple critical areas: criminal law and legal procedures, firearms training and marksmanship, defensive tactics and officer safety, emergency vehicle operations, de-escalation techniques and conflict resolution, community policing strategies, mental health awareness and crisis intervention, cultural competency training, report writing and documentation, and physical fitness and conditioning.
LE 181 Graduates are Jax Boris, Matthew Chandool, Cheyenne Dechert, Daniel Deluck, Zachary Dominguez, Julien Eason, Kenya Fils-Aime, Rosemary Gil, Trevor Goodrich, Evan Goforth, Joshua Hengstler, Evan Kicker, Austin Miller, Christyan Murray, Rodolfo Nazco, Aaliyah Rodriguez, Bryan Romero Gonzales, Brendan Sposato, and Leonardo Vargas.
Graduates are now qualified to pursue careers as municipal police officers, county sheriff’s deputies, state law enforcement officers, federal law enforcement agents (with additional training), campus security officers, private security supervisors, and loss prevention specialists.
“This program was both mentally and physically demanding, and our graduates showed extraordinary commitment, discipline, and resilience throughout this process,” said Indian River State College Public Service Academy Dean Lou Caprino. “We were proud to welcome them as guardians of public safety who are prepared to serve with integrity and professionalism.”
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September 19, 2025
Doors Open, Futures Begin: Indian River State College Announces Upcoming Open House Events
Prospective students can explore programs, meet faculty, and discover career pathways at open houses throughout the academic year
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Sept. 12, 2025) — Indian River State College (“The River”) is welcoming prospective students across the Treasure Coast to a series of open house events during the 2025–26 academic year. From nursing to business, public service to science and education, these events showcase the wide horizon of opportunities available at The River year-round.
Upcoming open house events:
- Sep. 16, 2025 – Nursing (Pruitt Campus)
- Oct. 2, 2025 – Business and Workforce
- Oct. 7, 2025 – Public Service
- Oct. 8, 2025 – Math, Science, and Education
- Feb. 9, 2026 – Health Science
- March 2026 – Math, Science, and Education
- April 9, 2026 – Nursing
- April 14, 2026 – Public Service
- April 16, 2026 – Business and Workforce
Prospective students who attend will gain a firsthand look at how Indian River State College programs connect directly to in-demand careers across the Treasure Coast. They will leave with a stronger sense of the skills they will learn, the professions those skills lead to, and how The River provides an affordable and effective route to their goals.
Those who attend an open house see how Indian River State College students benefit from hands-on experience in state-of-the-art labs, direct connections to industry leaders, and opportunities to apply classroom learning in real-world settings. These experiences ensure graduates leave with the confidence, skills, and professional network needed to succeed immediately in their chosen careers.
For details on open house events, visit https://connect.irsc.edu/?category=open-house. For more information about how Indian River State College can help students take the next step toward their future, visit www.irsc.edu for locations and program offerings.
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September 16, 2025
Youth Robotics Program Offered by Indian River State College
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (September 9, 2025) — Indian River State College (“The River”) is excited to announce the launch of its comprehensive Robotics Program designed for young learners ages 10-14. The program, at the College’s Eastman Advanced Workforce Training Complex, offers students hands-on experience building and programming robots using industry-standard VEX IQ kits, providing an engaging introduction to STEM education.
Young engineers get hands-on experience building and programming robots at The River’s Youth Robotics Program and Camps
Located at 3209 Virginia Avenue in Fort Pierce, the program features three skill levels to accommodate students at different stages of their robotics journey:
Program Structure:
- Beginner ($250) – Our beginner sessions are the perfect introduction to robotics. Students will learn the basics of building and programming robots while exploring how mechanical and coding systems work together. No prior experience is needed—just curiosity and creativity! Two sessions available: October 4, 5, 11 & 12, and October 18, 19, 25 & 26
- Intermediate ($150) – Our intermediate sessions are designed for students who already have a foundation in robotics. Students will take their skills to the next level with more complex robot builds, advanced programming concepts, and problem-solving challenges that encourage teamwork and creativity. Two sessions available: November 8 & 9, and November 22 & 23
- Advanced ($150) – Our advanced session is for students ready to take their robotics skills to the highest level. In this session, students will tackle complex engineering builds, explore advanced coding strategies, and work through real-world style robotics challenges that strengthen problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation. Session on December 6 & 7
Classes run Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., allowing students to learn at their own pace while exploring fundamental STEM concepts in an interactive, fun environment.
The VEX IQ platform is specifically designed for younger students, featuring snap-together pieces that make robot construction accessible while still teaching real engineering principles. Students will learn to program their robots to complete various challenges and tasks, fostering both creativity and logical thinking.
Register: Space is limited. Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit: Advanced Manufacturing – Indian River State College
Contact: Alex Wrobel, awrobel@irsc.edu or (772) 462-7042
September 9, 2025
Discover Your Healthcare Future! Indian River State College School of Nursing to Host Open House on 9/16/25
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (Sept. 9, 2025) — Indian River State College School of Nursing will host a free open house on Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the College’s Port St. Lucie campus, 500 NW California Boulevard.
The event provides prospective students with comprehensive information about nursing education opportunities and career paths in the growing healthcare field. Attendees will tour a state-of-the-art simulation center, laboratories, and classroom facilities while meeting faculty and learning about curriculum offerings.
The event features presentations on various nursing specializations, admission requirements, and the application process. Comprehensive student support services will be showcased, including academic advising, financial aid counseling, scholarship information, and tutoring resources. Faculty members will be available to discuss specific program details and career outcomes.
The open house welcomes prospective nursing students, current Indian River State College students exploring healthcare options, career changers, and high school students considering college programs. No prior registration fee is required.
Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025
Time: 5 – 7 p.m.
Location: Indian River State College, 500 NW California Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL 34986
Cost: Free admission
Registration: Online at https://connect.irsc.edu/event/1062758
Information: Phone 772-336-6330 or email IRSCSONprograminfo@irsc.edu
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About Indian River State College: Indian River State College, serving Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offers high-quality, affordable education to 24,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides over 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas. To learn more, visit irsc.edu.
September 9, 2025
Over 3,000 Incoming Students and Parents Welcomed at Fall 2025 Orientation
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (August 14, 2025) – Over 3,000 new students turned out at Indian River State College as it proudly welcomed its incoming class during New Student Orientation, continuing the College’s tradition of providing accessible, high-quality education to students across the Treasure Coast region. Many of these students will graduate debt-free through the College’s successful Promise Program.
Indian River State College President Dr. Timothy E. Moore, faculty, employees, and dignitaries celebrated the start of a new academic year with incoming students and families. The orientation featured an engaging atmosphere with various activities helping new students connect with peers and prepare them for their college journey.
New Student Orientation was in full swing on Day 1 as incoming students explored the campus before starting their college journey together.
Key Highlights:
- Strong Enrollment: Over 16,000 students have registered for Fall 2025, demonstrating continued confidence in Indian River State College’s educational value
- Promise Program Impact: 2,000+ high school graduates from the Class of 2025 committed to attend Indian River State College tuition-free through the Promise Program, which removes financial barriers for students pursuing Associate Degrees
- Sustained Growth: Indian River State College continues to buck national trends with robust enrollment while many colleges nationwide face declining student numbers
While college enrollment challenges persist nationwide due to rising costs and financial aid complexities, Indian River State College remains a beacon of accessible higher education in Florida.
“We are thrilled to welcome another outstanding class to Indian River State College,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore. “This strong enrollment reflects our continued commitment to innovative, accessible education that transforms lives and strengthens our community. Through programs like Promise, we are ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent students from achieving their dreams and contributing to our community’s future.”
“The sustained trust families place in Indian River State College, even amid national higher education challenges, demonstrates the exceptional value we provide here at The River,” said Vice President for Student Success Beth Gaskin. “Our students choose Indian River State College because they know we deliver quality education that leads to meaningful careers and seamless university transfer opportunities.”
Indian River State College serves more than 24,000 students annually in Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee Counties, offering over 130 programs leading to Bachelor’s Degrees, Associate Degrees, Technical Certificates, Applied Technology Diplomas, and Career Training programs.
The Indian River State College Promise Program is a philanthropy-driven, “last dollar” tuition-paid program sponsored by the Indian River State College Foundation and funded through generous donor philanthropy, covering any remaining tuition costs after financial aid and scholarships have been applied to make Associate degrees accessible to qualifying high school graduates in Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie counties.
For more information about Indian River State College and its programs, visit https://irsc.edu/.
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About Indian River State College: Indian River State College, serving Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offers high-quality, affordable education to 23,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides over 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas. To learn more, visit irsc.edu.
August 14, 2025
Dental Hygiene Students Achieve 100% Certification Pass Rate
Five-Year Track Record of Exceeding State and National Benchmarks
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Aug. 7, 2025) – Indian River State College’s 2025 Dental Hygiene graduating class achieved a 100% certification pass rate, continuing the program’s strong track record of student success. Over the past five years, the college’s Dental Hygiene program has maintained strong outcomes with a 98% graduation rate, 98% certification pass rate, and 96% employment rate, all above state and national averages for dental hygiene programs.
A dental hygiene student practices clinical skills during a hands-on training session with a patient under faculty supervision.
“This 100% pass rate reflects what we see every day – students who come in eager to learn and leave as confident professionals ready to make a difference in their patients’ lives,” said Anna Hubbard, Dean of Health Sciences at Indian River State College. “With our faculty and facilities, they get hands-on experience with the latest technology while learning from instructors who are invested in their success.”
The program’s focus on quality education extends beyond the classroom throughthe college’s Dental Clinic, where students gain practical experience while providing preventive dental services, including cleanings, to patients of all ages. These services are offered at reduced prices under the supervision of experienced, licensed faculty.
A young patient beams with excitement during a visit, supported by dental hygiene students gaining real-world experience in patient care.
“The clinic serves as a bridge between our students’ education and the community’s oral health needs,” said Anna DaCosta, Dental Hygiene Program Director. “Patients receive quality preventative care at affordable rates while our students apply their learning in real-world settings that benefit everyone involved.”
The dental hygiene field continues to show strong demand on the Treasure Coast, offering graduates career opportunities in private practices, public health settings, and educational institutions.
For more information about Indian River State College’s Dental Hygiene program, visit irsc.edu/program/dental-hygiene/. To schedule an appointment at the Indian River State College Dental Clinic for preventative services, call 772-462-7524.
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About Indian River State College: Indian River State College, serving Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offers high-quality, affordable education to 23,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides over 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas. To learn more, visit irsc.edu.
August 7, 2025
Indian River State College’s Project STAGE Program Leads State in Student Employment Success
Program achieves 70% employment rate for students with unique abilities
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Aug. 5, 2025) – Indian River State College’s Project STAGE program continues to prepare students with unique abilities for meaningful careers, as highlighted by a recent Employer Recognition Award presented to local business owner J. Evans of three UPS Stores in Vero Beach and Sebastian.
The UPS Store owner, J. Evans (left), displays his award for supporting students with unique abilities alongside his Project STAGE employee.
Evans was recognized following his nomination by Indian River State College’s Project STAGE team for hiring a program student as a kiosk assistant in January 2025, demonstrating the employer partnerships that support the program’s success.
The College’s Project STAGE program leads in Florida with enrollment of up to 36 students for the 2025-26 academic year, the highest among 35 similar college, university, and technical school programs. The program serves students from Martin, Indian River, and St. Lucie counties across Indian River State College’s Massey and Mueller campuses and is sponsored by the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities.
“Our success is built on intentional relationship-building with local employers who share our vision of inclusive workplaces,” said JoAnn Pagano, Project STAGE Program Manager. “When employers open their hearts and minds to nurture the growth and development of our students, everyone benefits.”
The program combines classroom learning through the Specialized Career Training Course with paid and unpaid internships. Students develop job skills, create professional portfolios, and practice interviews while working closely with local employers.
Currently, 70% of Project STAGE students achieve gainful employment. The program provides ongoing support for up to five years post-graduation to ensure long-term employment stability for its students. Staff actively network with employers and provide onsite coaching during interviews and onboarding.
Indian River State College’s Project STAGE program demonstrates how strategic partnerships create meaningful opportunities for students with unique abilities while meeting community workforce needs.
To learn more about Project STAGE, visit irsc.edu/programs/special-programs/project-stage/,call (772) 462-4257, or email Kirsten Jerome at kjerome@irsc.edu.
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About Project STAGE: Project STAGE is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students with unique abilities for successful careers through specialized training, internship opportunities, and ongoing support services. The program serves students from Martin, Indian River, and St. Lucie counties and maintains partnerships with local employers throughout the region.
About Indian River State College: Indian River State College, serving Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offers high-quality, affordable education to 23,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides 175 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas. To learn more, visit irsc.edu.
Media Contacts:
Kathleen Walter – Public Information Officer/Public Relations Manager
Rodrigo Berlanga Rodriguez – Public Relations Coordinator
PIO@irsc.edu
August 5, 2025
Indian River State College Co-hosted Inaugural Trauma-Informed Care Summit (7/31/2025)
Educational symposium brought together caring professionals to strengthen healing-centered approaches
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (July 31, 2025) – Indian River State College and Peace for St. Lucie co-hosted the inaugural 2025 Trauma-Informed Care Summit, which raised awareness about trauma-informed care practices and provided valuable educational opportunities for healthcare professionals, mental health practitioners, educators, and community members interested in understanding trauma-sensitive approaches.
Healthcare professionals and community advocates filled the Kight Center auditorium as expert speakers shared trauma-informed care strategies.
The event brought together compassionate professionals at the Kight Center for Emerging Technologies, located at the Fort Pierce campus of Indian River State College. The symposium was open to the public and welcomed anyone interested in learning about trauma-informed care practices and their implementation in professional settings.
“We were moved by the enthusiasm and dedication of everyone who attended,” said Mariuxi Mejia, Director of Student Wellness at Indian River State College. “Seeing healthcare professionals, educators, and community members come together with such genuine commitment to trauma-informed care was incredibly inspiring.”
The summit featured:
- Keynote presentation from leading trauma-informed care experts
- Panel discussions with experienced practitioners
- Continuing Education Units (CEUs) that were available for nurses, mental health professionals, and other qualifying professionals
- Networking opportunities with fellow professionals and community advocates
The inaugural summit reached full capacity, reflecting the strong community interest in trauma-informed care approaches.
The collaboration between Indian River State College and Peace for St. Lucie reflected both organizations’ genuine commitment to nurturing trauma-informed practices throughout the community and supporting the professional growth of those dedicated to this essential area of care.
For more information, visit irsc.edu or call 772-489-7826.
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About Indian River State College: Indian River State College, serving Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offers high-quality, affordable education to 23,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The River provides 175 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas.
About Peace for St. Lucie: Peace for St. Lucie is dedicated to building peace, fostering growth, and supporting the St. Lucie community through various educational and wellness programs.
Media Contacts:
Kathleen Walter – Public Relations Manager/Public Information Officer
Rodrigo Berlanga Rodriguez – Public Relations Coordinator
PIO@irsc.edu
July 31, 2025