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GRADUATE SPOTLIGHTS

Discover inspiring graduate success stories from Indian River State College that highlight perseverance, innovation, and the pursuit of meaningful careers. From space exploration to healthcare and nursing, these spotlights showcase how River students are overcoming challenges, achieving their goals, and ready to make an impact in their communities.

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News Topic: Community Engagement

Johnny Bench Draws Crowd, Helps Raise $40,000 for Indian River State College Student-Athletes
Two-day event brings together River alumni, fans, and community to support student-athlete success
PALM CITY, FL (May 5, 2026) — The Indian River State College Athletic Department raised more than $40,000 in conjunction with the Indian River State College Foundation during a two-day event. The experience united alumni, student-athletes, and community supporters while celebrating the College’s strong baseball tradition.
Dr. Timothy E. Moore and Johnny Bench
The event featured a meet-and-greet with Hall of Famer Johnny Bench. It also included a golf tournament and a helicopter ball drop.
An Evening with Johnny Bench
First, the event opened with an intimate meet-and-greet with Bench. A legendary baseball catcher, Bench is widely regarded as one of the greatest in MLB history. Each guest received a personal photo and time with Bench.
Baseball alumni joined community members and College leadership. Bench spoke about his small-town roots and his path to success. He emphasized the value of opportunity and perseverance. “Indian River State College does a lot of good, and everyone should know about it,” Bench told supporters.
Helicopter Ball Drop
Golf Tournament and Helicopter Ball Drop
Next, the celebration continued at Hammock Creek Golf Club in Palm City. Alumni and supporters filled the course for the tournament.
Later that day, the helicopter ball drop closed the event. Hundreds of numbered golf balls dropped onto the driving range. Participants competed for $20,000 in prizes. The closest ball earned $10,000. The next ten each won $1,000.
Private donors funded all prizes. Therefore, every dollar raised supports The River’s Athletics program.
A Celebration of Baseball Legacy
Meanwhile, the event doubled as a homecoming for the college’s baseball alumni. Former Indian River State College softball coach Dale Atkinson spearheaded and supported the celebration. Atkinson coached The River’s softball team for nearly 30 years before retiring in 2025.
In addition, Frank Russo attended the event. He is a three-time MLB draftee, Indian River State College Hall of Famer, and college supporter.
Johnny Bench (center), Dale Atkinson (second from right), with Indian River State College Athletics Supporters
Also, Rusty Meacham returned to support his alma mater. The Detroit Tigers drafted him out of Indian River State College in 1987. He later pitched eight seasons in Major League Baseball.
Voices from the College & Community
“Special thanks to Mr. Bench, Coach Dale Atkinson, Indian River State College Foundation, and to all of the event’s supporters,” said Scott Kimmelman, Athletic Director at Indian River State College. “It helps us compete at a high level. It also helps our student-athletes succeed in the classroom.”
“This event reflects the strength of both our college and our community,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President of Indian River State College. “When people invest in students, they invest in the future. Our student-athletes leave ready to lead.”
“Bringing our alumni and community back together like this reminds you what makes Indian River State College special,” said Coach Dale Atkinson. “It’s not just about the games we played—it’s about the opportunities we create for the next generation. Seeing everyone rally behind our student-athletes and invest in their future is incredibly meaningful to me. It’s something that will have a lasting impact on this program.”
“The Foundation creates opportunities that change lives,” said Indian River State College Foundation Executive Director Annabel Robertson, JD, CFRE. “This event shows what happens when a community comes together for students.”
Timothy E. Moore, Frank Russo, and Andre Lambros
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Finally, the River’s Athletic Department and Foundation thank Bobby Tucker and Agriculture Air Services. They also recognize the following generous sponsors: Morgan Stanley, Steve Swan, Landmark Investments and Real Estate, Nomad Dumpsters, Farm Bureau Insurance of Stuart, WickWire Re/Max of Stuart, Fraser Creek Brewing and Distilling Company, Southern Eagle Distributors, and Hammock Creek Golf Club.
Click here for information about the Indian River State College Athletic Program.
Click here for information about the Indian River State College Foundation.
May 5, 2026
Level Up Your Alumni Experience: Indian River State College Alumni Night Brings Games, Food, and Fun to Dave & Buster’s
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (April 28, 2026) — Get ready for a night of connection and fun. The Indian River State College Alumni Association will host Alumni Night on May 29, 2026. The event will take place at Dave & Buster’s.
The event runs from 6 – 9 p.m. It will be held at 2270 SW Gatlin Blvd in Port St. Lucie.
Attendees can expect an energetic, family-friendly atmosphere. Guests will enjoy heavy appetizers, unlimited gameplay, and one premium drink ticket.
“This event offers a fresh way to bring River alumni together,” said Laura Midkiff, Indian River State College Director of Alumni Relations. “It blends fun, networking, and nostalgia in one place.” Moreover, the experience is designed to engage younger alumni while welcoming all generations.
Whether you want to catch up with classmates or make new connections, this event delivers. Plus, the arcade setting adds a playful twist to traditional alumni gatherings.
Because space is limited, RSVP is required. Guests should register early to secure their spot. Click here to register.
For more information, contact the Indian River State College Foundation: 772-462-4786 or lmidkiff@irsc.edu.
April 28, 2026
Indian River State College Partners with the Gordon Center to Deliver Active Shooter Response Training to Treasure Coast First Responders
Multi-Disciplinary, Simulation-Based ASHE Training Comes to Fort Pierce on April 28, 2026 — At No Cost to Participating Agencies
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (April 27, 2026) — Indian River State College’s Criminal Justice Institute has strategically partnered with the Gordon Center at the University of Miami to bring high-intensity, life-saving active shooter response training directly to the Treasure Coast – at no cost to participating agencies.
On April 28, 2026, Indian River State College (The River) will host the Tactical and Medical Response to Active Shooter Hostile Events (ASHE) training at the Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex. The full-day, simulation-based program will prepare law enforcement, fire rescue, EMS, and emergency management professionals to respond to complex, real-world crisis scenarios.
Training Built for Real-World Crisis Response – Why It’s Different
Recognized for its impact, the Gordon Center’s ASHE training prepares first responders for high-risk incidents, including mass casualty events. ASHE emphasizes an integrated response approach- enabling EMS and law enforcement to enter “hot zones” together to deliver immediate, lifesaving care. Developed in collaboration with the U.S. military, law enforcement, and EMS partners, the program is designed to accelerate response times, strengthen coordination, and ultimately save more lives.
The River presents this face-to-face training to a multidisciplinary audience of public safety professionals, including law enforcement officers, fire rescue personnel, emergency medical services (EMS) providers, and other first responders who may respond to active shooter or hostile events. The curriculum directly addresses a critical need: the ability of multiple agencies to work together seamlessly under extreme pressure.
Participants will engage in realistic, high-intensity simulations that mirror the chaos and urgency of real incidents, including live-action scenarios with actors portraying critically injured victims, coordinated law enforcement and EMS response exercises, hands-on skills stations and real-time decision making under extreme pressure — the exact skills that first responders need to save lives during mass violence incidents.
A Partnership That Elevates Regional Public Safety Standards
The Gordon Center at the University of Miami stands as a nationally respected leader in simulation-based emergency training. Support from the Florida Department of Education provides for the development and dissemination of life-saving programs across Florida’s first responder community. Additionally, the Gordon Center’s faculty includes emergency and trauma physicians, Fire-Rescue professionals, EMS providers, law enforcement personnel, emergency management specialists, and members of the U.S. Army Trauma Training Detachment.
By bringing this level of expertise to Fort Pierce, Indian River State College continues to strengthen its role as a regional hub for advanced, interdisciplinary public safety education. As a result, local agencies gain access to the same caliber of training typically available only in major metropolitan areas.
“Bringing this caliber of multi-disciplinary training to the Treasure Coast reflects Indian River State College’s deep commitment to serving our community’s public safety professionals,” said Indian River State College Executive Dean of Public Service Lou Caprino. “Together with the Gordon Center, we are building the regional preparedness and agency partnerships that truly save lives.”
Why This Training Matters for the Treasure Coast Community
Effective response to active shooter and hostile events depends on seamless coordination between law enforcement, fire rescue, and EMS. However, opportunities to train together across disciplines at the advanced, simulation-based level remain limited for many agencies outside major urban centers. Therefore, The River’s decision to host this training locally provides significant value to both the college and the broader Treasure Coast region.
In addition to enhancing regional preparedness, this event reinforces The River’s broader mission of delivering innovative, relevant, and community-focused education and training. By partnering with the Gordon Center, The River ensures that Treasure Coast first responders build the practical skills they need — right here, without having to travel statewide to access world-class instruction.
Training Event Details
Date: Tuesday, April 28, 2026
Time: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Indian River State College, Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex, 4600 Kirby Loop, Fort Pierce, FL 34981
Cost: No cost to participating agencies and personnel
Audience: Law enforcement, fire rescue, EMS, emergency management, and public safety personnel
Hosts: Criminal Justice Institute at Indian River State College School of Public Service Education & the Gordon Center
Learn More About Indian River State College Criminal Justice Programs and Admissions
Agencies and public safety professionals who want to follow future collaborative training opportunities can explore The River’s Criminal Justice Institute programs and admission options online. To discover upcoming training events, review program offerings, or begin the admissions process, visit www.irsc.edu/criminaljustice.
Public safety agencies and community partners can also follow Indian River State College’s Criminal Justice Institute announcements for future advanced training events and partnership opportunities across the Treasure Coast region.
About the Gordon Center
Part of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, the Gordon Center is a global leader in healthcare simulation education and research. Each year, more than 20,000 healthcare professionals and first responders from over 60 countries train through its programs. The Center is internationally recognized for innovations such as Harvey® Premier, the world’s first cardiopulmonary patient simulator, its Advanced and Essential Stroke Life Support courses, and its specialized training in Active Shooter Hostile Events, airway management, and point of care ultrasound.
April 27, 2026
Indian River State College Foundation Hosts 2026 Promise Cup Golf Tournament to Benefit Student Scholarships — May 15
Tee off for education. Drive toward opportunity. Putt for a brighter future.
DATE: Friday, May 15, 2026
TIME: 7 a.m. – Registration & Breakfast, 9 a.m. – Shotgun Start
LOCATION: PGA Golf Club PGA Village | Ryder Course
1916 Perfect Dr.
Port St. Lucie, FL 34986
FORT PIERCE, FL (April 14, 2025) — Make an Impact on the course! Join the Indian River State College Foundation for a day of exceptional golf and charitable giving. Together, we come together to provide tuition-free associate degrees to Indian River State College students across Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties. Every foursome entry of $1,250 sponsors a student’s college tuition for a year through the Promise Program!
Registration & Sponsorship
Good shots and great causes go hand in hand at the IRSC Foundation Promise Cup Golf Tournament. Every round played helps fund scholarships and open doors for students across the Treasure Coast.
Join us as an individual golfer ($325), foursome ($1,250), or sponsor (starting at $500) to help provide tuition-free education to deserving students. To register, click here.
Sponsors to date include: Brooklyn Water Bagels; Coral Shores Behavioral Health; FPUA; Gilbert Ford; Gilbert Chevy; Hi-Tide Boatlifts; Piper; Speizle Architecture Group; Treasure Coast Toyota; Steinger, Greene & Feiner; Treasure Coast Lexus; and The Porch Factory
About the Promise Program
The Promise Program represents a transformative commitment to educational access and economic mobility in our region. This initiative covers tuition for eligible high school graduates and removes financial barriers that often prevent talented students from pursuing higher education. By investing in local talent, the Promise Program strengthens our workforce pipeline and addresses skills gaps in high-demand industries. Additionally, it creates pathways to prosperity for families across our service area.
About the Indian River State College Foundation
The Indian River State College Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charity, supports Indian River State College initiatives, including funding the Promise Program and offering over 1,600 scholarships each year through donations and endowments. Through events like the Promise Cup Golf Tournament, the Foundation is able to fund initiatives that make higher education accessible to all eligible students.
Questions?
Contact Maygan Johnson, Sr. Director of Development | MJohnson19@irsc.edu 772.332.5226
April 14, 2026
RiverBlog: Geoffrey Smith Sculpts the Falcon: Inside the Artist’s New Commission for Indian River State College
Smith discusses his lifelong connection to wildlife art and what it means to bring this piece to life.
Geoffrey Smith stands next to the clay model of the peregrine falcon he is working on that will eventually be installed as a bronze statue at Indian River State College.
From Wood Carving to Bronze Casting: How Geoffrey Smith Found His Medium
Walk into Geoffrey Smith’s studio on Dixie Highway in Stuart and you understand why he never left. Bronze creatures fill every surface — sailfish, sea turtles, kingfishers, an octopus mid-reach. Outside, a rewilded preserve hums with egrets and spoonbills. In fact, manatees have been known to wander in at high tide.
Smith is one of America’s most celebrated wildlife sculptors. His 18-foot bronze sailfish is the iconic symbol of downtown Stuart. In 2017, his lotus sculpture Rising Above was presented by President Trump to Pope Francis as an official diplomatic gift. It now lives permanently in the Vatican. And he’s currently at work on a new bronze peregrine falcon for Indian River State College (The River). This bird is the College’s mascot.
It started with a grandfather — a retired orthopedic surgeon who carved wood and passed the skill to his grandson. Smith grew up hunting and fishing on the northern California coast. He made duck decoys through high school and college before relocating to Montana, where he discovered bronze casting. The difference from woodcarving struck him immediately.
“I’m going from working with wood, where you’re taking away the whole time,” said Smith. “With the sculpting, you would add wax and then take it away, add, take away. So you couldn’t mess it up, you just keep working it.”
He cast his first piece, sold it, and never looked back. “I thought, holy smokes — I could make this work.”
A Studio Rooted in Florida Wildlife: Manatees, Kingfishers, and a Rewilded Preserve
He arrived in Stuart in 1997 and stumbled into a downtown gallery space when the previous tenant was moving out. “They had the perfect pigeon,” he laughs. He ran it for nearly 30 years.
The drive behind his art, Smith says, comes from “someplace deep and dark.” He describes himself as compelled to tell the story of the wild. He is frustrated that so many people miss the nature right in front of them.
“So many people don’t see the nature around them,” said Smith. “You can’t get to my gallery without passing a kingfisher — they are everywhere. And I know it drives my wife crazy when we’re driving because she doesn’t think I pay attention to the road.”
His studio property reflects that obsession: he’s rewilded the preserve behind it. During Florida’s manatee crisis, the animals found their way in to graze on cordgrass he planted. “We even had the manatees coming up and eating the salt marsh cordgrass when all the manatees were starving. I love it.”
The Stuart Bronze Sailfish: A Treasure Coast Landmark With Global Reach
The Stuart sailfish commission began with a T-shirt fundraiser that wasn’t going to get the job done. Smith worked his connections — hauling sculptures to fishing tournaments, asking for donations — until one patron, Ed Selian, waved him off. “He said, ‘I’ll pay for the whole thing.’”
The piece took a year and a half. It became something nobody predicted.
“That fish is known in the sport fishing world around the world. You can go to Costa Rica, into the marina — I say the Sailfish and they go, Oh, that Geoffrey Smith.”
“I could never have dreamt of the impact that one sculpture would have. I think that speaks to the power of art.”
“Rising Above”: The Florida Lotus Sculpture That Became a Vatican Diplomatic Gift
The lotus piece for the Vatican had similarly humble origins — a family airboat trip on Lake Okeechobee, where Smith first encountered the flower. He eventually made a version for a hospital entrance. When the State Department called, he knew exactly which piece to offer. “I said, that piece — I think what could be more fitting?”
He wasn’t allowed to say anything in advance. The morning the news broke, his phone rang before six. “It was my wife’s ex-husband. He’s like, ‘Geoffrey, turn on the news. You won’t believe it.’”
The River’s Peregrine Falcon Bronze: A Symbol of Student Commitment
The Indian River State College falcon commission is personal. His daughter Carolyn earned her AA through the Clark Advanced Learning Center via the College’s Dual Enrollment program. Her college diploma arrived roughly one week after her high school graduation. Smith attended the graduation ceremony and came away moved.
“I’ve been to lots of graduations — MBAs, college. And I said that graduation was the best. President Moore included everybody. What a great place Indian River State College is.”
The sculpture captures the instant a peregrine falcon commits to its dive — 160 miles an hour, nothing stopping it.
“It’s captured the moment of decision — when that bird has gone from just flying around to seeing its prey, and now it’s committed. For the student, the symbolism: they see their future, they know they’re going to graduate and move forward. Hopefully the students will resonate with that.”
Asked what keeps him rooted here when the world has clearly noticed him, Smith doesn’t hesitate.
“Martin County is like a living sculpture garden for me. Community, friends, family — I built my life here. This is my happy place.”
Most mornings, he is paddleboarding to Jupiter Island before the sun gets too high, watching whatever wildlife is nearby. Then a 10-minute drive to the studio, where the bronze work awaits.
“If I’m not out doing an adventure in the wild, I like to be making something.”
Click here for the RiverTalk interview with wildlife bronze sculptor Geoffrey Smith on IRSC Public Media. Smith discusses his career, his Treasure Coast studio, and what drives him to capture Florida’s wildlife in bronze.
To follow the development of Smith’s falcon statue for Indian River State College, visit the College’s website at irsc.edu.
March 31, 2026
Dr. Timothy E. Moore Honored with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Partnership Award
Indian River State College President Accepts Recognition, Dedicates Honor to Board of Trustees, Faculty, Staff, and Students
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (March 27, 2026) — Indian River State College President Dr. Timothy Moore has been honored with a prestigious award from the Dr. Martin Luther King Commemorative Committee of St. Lucie County and the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, in recognition of his enduring partnership, unwavering support, and personal commitment to uplifting the community through the spirit and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King Commemorative Committee and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority members present the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Partnership Award to Indian River State College President Dr. Timothy E. Moore and District Board of Trustees
While the award was presented to Dr. Moore personally, he graciously dedicated the honor to the entire Indian River State College community — including the District Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and students — whose collective commitment to service and civic engagement he credited as the true foundation of the recognition.
“I am truly humbled by this recognition, and I want to be clear — this award belongs to every person at Indian River State College who shows up every day committed to making a difference in someone’s life,” said Dr. Moore. “To be mentioned in the same breath as Dr. King’s legacy is not something I take lightly. I simply try to do what he taught us all: serve others, lead with love, and never stop believing that we can build something better together. Any good that has come from our partnership with the MLK Committee is a reflection of this community — not of me.”
The award was presented by Larryton McNealy, Jr., Chairman of the Dr. Martin Luther King Commemorative Committee of St. Lucie County, who praised Dr. Moore’s leadership and the culture of community partnership he has cultivated at Indian River State College.
“For many years, Indian River State College has been more than a partner to our organization,” said McNealy. “Under Dr. Moore’s leadership, the college has been a pillar of support, a collaborator in purpose, and a shared voice in advancing the principles of equity, education, service, and community uplift that Dr. King championed.”
McNealy credited Dr. Moore’s leadership with enabling the committee to host meaningful commemorative events, offer educational programming, engage young people in leadership and service, and create spaces for dialogue that honor Dr. King’s legacy not only through reflection, but through action.
“Your commitment to education and civic engagement aligns seamlessly with our mission,” McNealy said. “Together we have been able to turn vision into visible impact throughout our communities. Service is strongest when it is shared, and progress is most powerful when it is collective.”
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About Indian River State College: Indian River State College (The River) serves Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offering high-quality, affordable education to over 24,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides more than 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and technical certificates. Visit irsc.edu.
March 27, 2026
Okee-One Data Campus: Bringing Lasting Educational Resources and Economic Opportunity to our Community
Indian River State College is proud to be leading Okee-One — a transformative workforce development initiative and our vision to bring a vibrant new campus forward for Okeechobee. By transforming the 205-acre former Florida School for Boys site into a fully operational, community-anchored data and technology campus, we are creating real career pathways for Okeechobee residents and hands-on learning opportunities for students in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries.
Okee-One will serve as a living learning lab where students train alongside real-world infrastructure, Okeechobee residents earn skilled, well-paying careers, and a historically significant piece of land becomes a source of regional pride and economic strength.
Workforce development is central to the College’s vision. Okee-One is directly connected to Indian River State College’s technical workforce programs, including but not limited to technology, cybersecurity, electrical systems, welding, and HVAC – and Okeechobee graduates will be first in line for the careers this campus supports.
The project is currently in the development stage as we work to find partners that will align with and support our vision.
FAQs
What exactly is Okee-One, and what is The River’s vision?
Okee-One is Indian River State College’s vision to transform the 205-acre former Florida School for Boys site into a fully operational, community-anchored data and technology campus. The River’s vision is to create a living learning lab where students train alongside real-world infrastructure, Okeechobee residents earn skilled careers in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries, and a historically significant piece of land becomes a source of regional pride and economic strength. Okee-One will promote economic development and workforce development for the emerging digital economy.
Will this project actually create jobs for Okeechobee residents?
Absolutely — and local workforce development is central to why The River is leading this project. Okee-One is directly connected to Indian River State College’s programs in IT, cybersecurity, electrical systems, and other technical workforce programs.
What is being done to protect wildlife and natural habitats on the property?
Indian River State College contracted with Kimley-Horn to ensure we were meeting all of the state and federal requirements to identify and protect the species identified on site and to be good stewards of the surrounding natural resources.
Will this data campus drive up electricity prices for Okeechobee residents?
No. Okee-One is envisioned as a 9-to-10-megawatt facility, integrated into existing infrastructure that supports the current on-site development.
Will the data campus threaten the community’s water supply?
No. The intention is to build a facility that is supported by existing infrastructure. The Okee-One site is also close to Okeechobee Utility Authority’s existing water reclamation facility, which may work for the campus’s cooling operations.
Is it appropriate to redevelop the former Florida School for Boys site?
Indian River State College takes the history of this site seriously. A cultural resources assessment survey was completed. The intent is to transform this land into a campus of education and opportunity for a new generation of Floridians.
How has the community been involved as the project comes to fruition?
The project has been presented before the Okeechobee Board of County Commissioners and the Okeechobee City Council in public sessions, and The River’s leadership has engaged with local government and economic development partners throughout. The College is committed to ongoing, open dialogue.
Questions?
Contact: Indian River State College | 772-462-4772 or PIO@irsc.edu
March 26, 2026
St. Lucie County Chamber of Commerce and Indian River State College Foundation Announce The River’s Community Impact Luncheon on 3/25/26
FORT PIERCE, FL (February 25, 2026) — The St. Lucie County Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Indian River State College Foundation (IRSC Foundation), is proud to announce The River’s Community Impact Luncheon, a signature event celebrating the vital role that Indian River State College (The River) plays in shaping the economic and educational future of the Treasure Coast region.
The luncheon will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Indian River State College Eastman Advanced Workforce Training Complex, Massey Campus, located at 3209 Virginia Ave, Fort Pierce, Florida.
This special event will bring together community leaders, business professionals, educators, and civic stakeholders to recognize the transformative impact The River continues to have on workforce development, higher education access, and economic growth throughout St. Lucie County and the broader Treasure Coast region.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Eastman Advanced Workforce Training Complex | Massey Campus, Indian River State College, 3209 Virginia Ave, Fort Pierce, FL
Tickets: Individual tickets are $45. Sponsorship opportunities range from $250 to $750.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Businesses and organizations wishing to increase their visibility and demonstrate commitment to the community are invited to take advantage of the following sponsorship tiers:
Platinum Partner — $750: 8 tickets, reserved table, full-page program ad, name featured in presentation, and premier event recognition.
Gold Partner — $500: 6 tickets, half-page program ad, reserved seating, name featured in presentation, and event recognition.
Silver Partner — $250: 2 tickets, name featured in presentation, and recognition in the event program.
Seating is limited. Attendees and sponsors are encouraged to register early to secure their place at this inspiring community gathering.
For ticket purchases, sponsorship inquiries, or additional information, please contact the St. Lucie County Chamber of Commerce (772-595-9999 or info@stluciechamber.org) or visit the Chamber’s website.
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About Indian River State College Foundation (IRSC Foundation): The IRSC Foundation supports the mission of Indian River State College by securing private funding to provide scholarships, workforce programs, and educational resources that expand opportunity for students and communities across the Treasure Coast.
About the St. Lucie County Chamber of Commerce: The St. Lucie County Chamber of Commerce serves as the leading advocate for businesses in the region, fostering economic growth, community development, and business success throughout St. Lucie County.
February 25, 2026
The River Opens Its Doors This Spring: Free Open Houses Across the Treasure Coast
STEM · Hospitality & Culinary · Nursing & Health Sciences · Public Safety · Business & Cybersecurity · Workforce Education · Welding· Teaching
Fort Pierce, FL (February 24, 2026) — Indian River State College (The River) will host specialized Open House events this spring, giving prospective students a chance to explore career programs, tour facilities, meet faculty, and learn about financial aid and enrollment. All events are free, open to the public. Registration recommended. Free parking. ADA accessible.
STEM Open House March 25, 2026, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Massey Campus, 3209 Virginia Avenue, N-117, Fort Pierce –Engineering technology, computer science, mathematics, and natural sciences. Tour specialized labs and meet faculty in high-demand technical fields.
Hospitality & Tourism, Culinary and Restaurant Management Open House March 25, 2026, 6–7:30 p.m. | Mueller Campus, 6155 College Lane, Bldg. C – Richardson Center, Vero Beach — Culinary arts, hotel management, restaurant operations, and event planning. Tour professional kitchens and meet award-winning culinary instructors.
School of Health & Human Sciences Open House April 6, 2026, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Pruitt Campus, 500 NW California Blvd., Building G, Port St. Lucie –Registered nursing, practical nursing, dental hygiene, radiography, and more. Tour simulation labs with advanced medical training equipment.
Public Service Education Open House April 14, 2026, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex, 4600 Kirby Loop Road, Fort Pierce — Law enforcement, fire science, EMS, and criminal justice. Tour fire training towers, tactical ranges, and emergency response facilities.
Business, Accounting & Cybersecurity Open House April 14, 2026, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Massey Campus, 3209 Virginia Avenue, Building Y 102, Fort Pierce — Business administration, accounting, entrepreneurship, and cybersecurity. Learn about industry certifications and IT security career pathways.
School of Education (Teacher Preparation) Open House April 14, 2026, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Massey Campus, 3209 Virginia Avenue, Building C, Fort Pierce – Join us to learn about the different pathways to becoming a teacher.
Workforce Education Open House April 16, 2026, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. | Massey Campus, S 31^st Street, 3209 Virginia Avenue, Building O, Fort Pierce — Skilled trades, project management, workforce training, and professional certifications. Explore flexible scheduling and industry partnership programs.
Welding Open House April 29, 2026, 6 – 8 p.m. | Massey Campus, 3209 Virginia Avenue, Building C, Fort Pierce — Whether you’re a high school student, career-changer, or welding enthusiast, this is your chance to spark a dynamic career! Connect with industry-expert instructors, explore program requirements, and discover how we can transform your career aspirations into real-world skills and opportunities.
For information about the open houses and to register, visit https://connect.irsc.edu/?category=open-house.
Indian River State College serves Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offering high-quality, affordable education to over 24,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides more than 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and technical certificates. Visit irsc.edu.
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February 24, 2026
Indian River State College Foundation Veterans Clay Shoot Raises $80,000 for Student-Veterans
OKEECHOBEE, Fla. (February 19, 2026) — The Indian River State College Foundation (IRSC Foundation) hosted its annual Veterans Clay Shoot on February 13, 2026, at OK Corral Gun Club in Okeechobee, Florida, raising $80,000 to support student-veterans and military families enrolled at Indian River State College (The River), the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee’s public college and one of Florida’s premier state colleges.
A participant takes aim during the IRSC Foundation Veterans Clay Shoot
The event was presented by Gilbert’s Family of Companies and drew more than 120 participants competing across 30+ teams. Funds raised will be directed to The River’s Military and Veterans Services Department to provide financial support, career assistance, and day-to-day assistance for the college’s enrolled student-veterans.
Timothy E. Moore & Bert Culbreth
Event Overview
- Date: February 13, 2026
- Location: OK Corral Gun Club, Okeechobee, Florida
- Format: Sporting clays team competition, 30 teams, 120+ participants
- Funds Raised: $80,000
- Beneficiary: Indian River State College Military and Veterans Services Department
- Presenting Sponsor: Gilbert’s Family of Companies
The event began with breakfast and opening remarks from Indian River State College President Dr. Timothy E. Moore, followed by a mandatory safety briefing before a 9:00 a.m. shotgun start. A BBQ lunch, awards ceremony, and raffle followed the competition.
Competition Results
- Top Team: Williamson Cattle
- Individual Winners: Shawn Peters and James Anderson (tie)
- Winning Veteran: Larry Gegg
“Sponsor a Veteran” Program
Through the event’s “Sponsor a Veteran” initiative, seven student-veterans participated in the clay shoot at no cost, funded by donor contributions designated specifically for veteran participation. Twenty veterans also participated.
Annabel Robertson & Frank Libutti, former U.S. Marine Corps general
Quotes from Indian River State College Leadership
Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President, Indian River State College: “Eighty thousand dollars raised in a single morning is a powerful statement — not just about what we can do for our student-veterans, but about who we are as a community. These funds mean financial support, career assistance, and the kind of day-to-day help that allows a veteran to stay in school and finish what they started. That matters more than any of us can fully measure.”
Frank Libutti, Chairman of the Board of Directors, IRSC Foundation; Retired Lieutenant General, United States Marine Corps: “I’ve led Marines in some of the most demanding conditions imaginable. What I saw today was different — civilians standing up for veterans, not because they had to, but because they chose to. That kind of community commitment is what makes the difference between a veteran who struggles after service and one who thrives. Our student-veterans deserve exactly this.”
Annabel Robertson, JD, CFRE, Vice President, IRSC Foundation: “A college degree changes the trajectory of a life. For a veteran who has already given so much, it is our duty to help support the bridge between service and a civilian career. This event helps us make sure that bridge is there when they need it. At Indian River State College, we stand shoulder to shoulder with those who have stood for our nation.”
Bert Culbreth, Sponsor & Vice Chair, IRSC Foundation: “Supporting the men and women who have served our country is something we take seriously. This event brings our community together around a shared commitment to making sure veterans have every opportunity to succeed after service, and we’re proud to play a part in that.”
Event Sponsors
- Presenting Sponsor: Gilbert’s Family of Companies
- Supporting Sponsors: Airstron Mechanical; Brighton Ammunition; Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC; Crary Buchanan, PA; Dr. Timothy Moore; Everglades Equipment Group; Gilbert Experience, LLC; GlobalTech, Inc.; IKONIC Munitions; InjuredVeterans.com (Gordon & Partners); Jared Queen; Kimley-Horn; Level Four Financial; Nylacarb Corp.; Pace Machine & Tool, Inc.; Paul Jacquin & Sons, Inc., Seacoast Bank; SouthState Bank; Spiezle Architectural Group; Team Parks, Inc.; UES – Universal Engineering Sciences; Venergy Group / AutoBuilders; Verdex Construction; and Walpole, Inc.
For more information or to support Indian River State College student-veterans:
- Website: https://giving.irsc.edu/
- Contact: John Ramfjord, IRSC Foundation Sr. Development Director, 772-462-4786
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About Indian River State College (The River): Indian River State College serves Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offering high-quality, affordable education to over 24,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides more than 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and technical certificates. Visit irsc.edu.
About the IRSC Foundation: The Indian River State College Foundation provides educational opportunities through scholarships and program support. As the funding partner of Indian River State College, the Foundation works to ensure that quality education remains within reach for all students.
February 23, 2026