Fort Pierce, FL (February 9, 2026) – Indian River State College has been recognized on Newsweek’s inaugural America’s Best Colleges for Women 2026 list, a national ranking of institutions with outstanding commitment to women’s educational and professional achievement.
Indian River State College graduates celebrate at a commencement ceremony. The River has been recognized on Newsweek’s inaugural America’s Best Colleges for Women 2026 list for its outstanding commitment to women’s educational and professional achievement.
Newsweek created this report by collaborating with Gender Fair. The evaluation process examined four critical categories important to prospective female students and their families when selecting a college: leadership, pay and policies, safety, and opportunity.
Newsweek’s website explains that this ranking aims to serve as a valuable tool to help prospective students and their families make informed decisions. The featured schools demonstrate strides in fostering women’s advancement, ensuring that women have access to the resources, support and opportunities they need to excel.
Fort Pierce, FL (February 6, 2026) – IRSC Public Media stations dominated the Treasure Coast radio market in the Fall 2025 ratings period, with all three stations achieving record-breaking performance and top rankings across multiple demographics, according to The Nielsen Company’s latest report.
WQCS 88.9 FM (NPR For The Treasure Coast) maintained its position as the market leader, with its flagship program Morning Edition capturing the #1 overall spot — a 15% increase from Spring 2025. The station also dominated among high-income earners and college graduates. When aggregating the last four ratings periods, WQCS ranks as the #1 station on the Treasure Coast overall.
“These results reflect the trust our community places in IRSC Public Media to deliver quality programming that informs, educates, and entertains,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President of Indian River State College (The River). “Our stations’ success demonstrates their vital role in serving the needs of the Treasure Coast.”
“The exceptional performance across all three stations shows that listener-focused programming makes the difference,” said Dr. Michael Hageloh, Executive Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at The River. “Whether it’s news and information on WQCS, R&B and specialty shows on Q 91.1, or rock variety on WQCO, our commitment to serving the region is clearly resonating with audiences.”
Indian River State College President Timothy Moore (right) visits the WQCS studios with Chris Puorro, Associate Vice President of IRSC Public Media, in 2020. Under their leadership, IRSC Public Media’s three stations have achieved record-breaking ratings performance across the Treasure Coast and Lake Okeechobee region
WQCP Q 91.1 FM (The Treasure Coast’s R&B) achieved historic ratings in Fall 2025, nearly doubling its overall share —the highest recorded share for the 91.1 FM frequency in the station’s history, dating back to the 1990s. The station ranked #1 overall in weekday evenings and dominated with specialty programming, including a #1 for Sunday Night Jazz, Solid Gold Saturday Morning, and Sunday Praise. Q 91.1 is also the top station among African American listeners.
WQCO 90.5 & 88.5 FM (Lake O’s Rock Variety), launched less than a year ago, continues to build an audience across the region.
“The success of all three IRSC Public Media stations validates our commitment to serving our entire region with high-quality programming,” said Chris Puorro, Associate Vice President/General Manager of IRSC Public Media. “These ratings demonstrate the strong connection we’ve built with listeners across the Treasure Coast and Lake Okeechobee region.”
Businesses and organizations interested in reaching the Treasure Coast’s most engaged and educated listeners can explore sponsorship opportunities on IRSC Public Media stations by contacting Ron Cook at roncookUW@irsc.edu or calling 801-874-8988.
Indian River State College Senior Director of Development Maygan Johnson with Enrique Rosario-Liz.
Fort Pierce, FL (February 5, 2026) — Indian River State College (The River) in partnership with Boys and Girls Club of St. Lucie County awarded St. Lucie County resident Enrique Rosario-Liz with a full scholarship to the College. The scholarship recognizes Rosario-Liz for his character, leadership abilities and community service.
Rosario-Liz had the option to receive two years tuition-free education through the Indian River State College Promise Program, which would have allowed him to earn an Associate in Arts (AA) or Associate in Science (AS) degree. He chose to receive the four-year Indian River State College Foundation scholarship to support his completion of a Bachelor’s Degree at The River.
“The scholarship provides a powerful springboard toward a future of financial freedom, educational accomplishment, and career readiness,” said Dr. Timothy Moore, Indian River State College president. “Our students benefit from small class sizes, faculty who care deeply about our students’ success, and opportunities for leadership, service learning, and career focused internships that prepares them for lives outside of graduation.”
A Club member for five years and a current 12th-grader at Port St. Lucie High School, Rosario-Liz’s hobbies include reading, writing and listening to music. An obstacle he has overovercome in his life is immigrating to the United States from the Dominican Republic. His platform focuses on providing educational resources for immigrant youth.
Later this year, Rosario-Liz will travel to Washington D.C. where he will compete for Boys and Girls Club National Youth of the Year.
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About Indian River State College: 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 Boys and Girls Club of St. Lucie County: For more than 30 years, we have been empowering young people, nurturing their potential, and equipping them to become responsible, caring, and productive citizens. Through our safe and supportive spaces, we inspire members to overcome challenges, build meaningful relationships, and develop essential life skills. As we celebrate our history, we honor our past achievements while looking ahead to an even greater future—one filled with expanded opportunities, deeper impact, and more bright futures for the youth we serve.
Fort Pierce, FL (January 29, 2026) – Indian River State College (The River) has announced that three athletic teams – volleyball, women’s swimming and diving, and softball – will share the prestigious Academic All-Stars Skull Award for achieving a remarkable combined 3.51 GPA during the fall 2025 semester. This marks only the second time in The River’s history that teams have tied for the honor, and the first time three teams have shared the award.
Members of The Indian River State College Swimming and Diving Team receive the Academic All-Stars Skull Award for their high academic achievement.
The announcement comes as The River’s athletic department celebrates its highest-ever departmental GPA of 3.43. Notably, 24 athletes earned perfect 4.0 GPAs.
“I am proud of our student-athletes,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College president. “They have shown us what is possible when young people commit themselves to excellence in every aspect of their lives. At Indian River State College, we have built a culture where our student-athletes excel both academically and athletically, and they continue to raise the bar for themselves and their teammates. Congratulations to the Academic All-Stars Skull Award recipients.”
Members of the Indian River State College Volleyball Team receive the Academic All-Stars Skull Award for their high academic achievement.
Athletic Director Scott Kimmelman praised the accomplishment as a reflection of the college’s commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes. “We are incredibly proud of these young individuals who exemplify what it means to be a student-athlete,” Kimmelman said. “The dedication shown by our volleyball, swimming and diving, and softball teams represents the very best of Indian River State College athletics. This achievement demonstrates that our student-athletes can compete at the highest level both in the classroom and in competition.”
Members of the Indian River State College Softball Team receive the Academic All-Stars Skull Award for their high academic achievement.
The volleyball team, led by Head Coach Erin Ergle, the women’s swimming and diving team under Head Coach Sion Brinn, and the softball team coached by Joe DellaRocca each maintained the exemplary 3.51 GPA that earned them the shared honor.
For the softball program, this marks a historic first, as it is the first time in program history that the team has won the Academic All-Stars Skull Award. The women’s swimming and diving team saw 13 of its 21 athletes achieve GPAs over 3.5, with four earning a perfect 4.0.
The Academic All-Stars Skull Award recognizes the athletic team with the highest collective GPA each semester, encouraging student-athletes to pursue excellence both in their sport and in their studies.
For more information about Indian River State College athletics, visit irsc.edu.
Commencement day at The River—where graduates celebrate their accomplishments and the bright futures ahead
Key Facts:
2,076 degrees and awards expected to be conferred in Fall 2025
428 credentials expected to be conferred to Program students, debt-free
1,862 total Promise Program credentials awarded since 2022
Ceremonies held December 17-18, 2025, at Westside Center, Fort Pierce, Florida
FORT PIERCE, FL (December 18, 2025) –Indian River State College (The River) celebrated the accomplishment of approximately 2,076 degrees and certificates completed by Fall 2025 graduates during commencement ceremonies held December 17 and 18, 2025, at the Westside Center in Fort Pierce, Florida. The festive ceremonies honored students who completed programs across academic and technical fields, including Promise Program students who earned 428 debt-free credentials.
About the Graduates
The Fall 2025 graduating class represents students from Indian River County, Martin County, Okeechobee County, and St. Lucie County across Florida’s Treasure Coast. Many graduates are the first in their families to earn a college degree, while others are advancing their careers through technical certifications and specialized training programs. Many Gold Star and Blue Star Families, as well as graduating veterans and active-duty service members, were also recognized.
“Commencement is one of the most exciting days of the year for our entire college community,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President of Indian River State College. “Watching our students walk across that stage—many who never thought college was possible—is a powerful reminder of what dedication and opportunity can achieve together. This is their moment, and we’re thrilled to celebrate it with them and their families. Congratulations to our graduates!”
Celebrating success! Graduates share smiles and excitement during Indian River State College’s Fall 2025 commencement ceremony, marking the achievement of their academic goals.
Promise Program Impact
The Indian River State College Promise Program allows eligible students to graduate tuition-free without student debt. Since launching in 2022, the Promise Program has awarded 1,862 credentials.
The Promise Program is sponsored by the Indian River State College Foundation and funded through donor philanthropy. The program removes financial barriers to higher education.
“The Promise Program is more than financial support—it’s a promise kept to our community that college education will be accessible for qualifying students,” said Annabel Robertson, JD, CFRE, Vice President of Institutional Advancement for the Indian River State College Foundation. “Thanks to our generous donors, we are changing the trajectory of families and strengthening the economic vitality of the entire Treasure Coast region.”
“EveryPromise graduate we celebrate today is a testament to what is possible when we invest in our students,” said Beth Gaskin, Vice President for Student Success at Indian River State College. “These are success stories and proof that when we remove financial barriers, talent and determination can flourish. Our graduates are now teachers, nurses, business leaders, and public servants making an immediate impact in our community.”
Workforce Development and Community Impact
Indian River State College serves as the primary workforce pipeline for the Treasure Coast, preparing graduates for careers in healthcare, education, business, technology, and public service. River graduates fill critical positions at local hospitals, schools, businesses, and government agencies across Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie counties.
A proud moment on stage as graduates in blue caps and gowns celebrate their achievement alongside faculty and staff at Indian River State College’s Fall 2025 commencement
“These graduates represent the heart of our mission—removing barriers to education and creating opportunities for every student to succeed,” said Dr. Heather Belmont, Indian River State College Provost. “Watching them achieve their dreams reminds us why we do this work every single day.”
The Fall 2025 graduating class includes numerous first-generation college students who are the first in their families to earn college degrees.
Commencement Ceremony Details
Indian River State College held four commencement ceremonies at the Westside Center in Fort Pierce on December 17-18, 2025, featuring speakers Chris B. Williams (positive energy coach and motivational speaker) for Associate Degrees and Certificates, The Honorable Robert Stone (Judge and River alumnus) for Bachelor’s Degrees, and Roseann Maresca, DNP (Assistant Professor at The River) for Nursing Degrees with Traditional Pinning.
Nursing Pinning Ceremony
The December 18 nursing ceremony included a traditional pinning ceremony before diploma presentation. The nursing pinning ceremony is a time-honored tradition symbolizing the commitment nursing graduates make to patient care and the nursing profession.
Distinguished Speakers and Flag Bearers
Roseann Maresca, DNP, MSN, RN, PCCN, addressed nursing graduates. Dr. Maresca is an Assistant Professor at Indian River State College with nearly a decade of nursing education experience and over 17 years of critical care nursing expertise at Martin Memorial Health Systems. She prepares nursing professionals to serve healthcare facilities across the Treasure Coast region.
Judge Robert Stone serves on the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Court and is an Indian River State College alumnus. Judge Stone earned his bachelor’s degree from Indian River State College before obtaining his juris doctor from Barry University School of Law. Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Judge Stone to the bench in October 2025.
Chris B. Williams is a positive energy coach and motivational speaker, who inspires audiences with his approach to personal and professional growth.
FORT PIERCE, FL (December 11, 2025) – The Public Service Academy at Indian River State College (The River) announces the graduation of 75 Emergency Medical Technicians from its EMT certificate program. The graduation ceremony was held at the Public Safety Training Complex at The River’s main campus in Fort Pierce, Florida.
EMT students gather for a group photo in their uniforms prior to their graduation ceremony, representing dedication and teamwork
Program Information:
Institution: Indian River State College
Program: Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Technical Certificate
Location: Public Safety Training Complex, Fort Pierce, Florida
Graduation Date: December 10, 2025
Number of Graduates: 75
Program Credits: 12 credits
Program Type: Selective Admission Technical Certificate
The graduates completed a 12-credit certificate program that included classroom instruction, hands-on skills laboratories, clinical rotations, and field internship experiences. The program meets the National EMS Education Standards and State of Florida statutes, preparing entry-level emergency medical technicians in cognitive knowledge, psychomotor skills, and affective behavioral learning domains.
Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President of Indian River State College, stated: “These graduates represent the very best of what Indian River State College stands for – commitment to excellence, service to community, and dedication to making a difference in people’s lives. As they begin their careers in emergency medical services, they carry with them the skills, knowledge, and values that will enable them to provide critical care when our community needs it most.”
Dean Lou Caprino stated: “We are incredibly proud of these 75 graduates who have worked tirelessly to master the demanding skills required of emergency medical technicians. Their success in this program demonstrates not only their technical competence but also their compassion and commitment to serving others in times of crisis. They are ready to make an immediate and positive impact in emergency medical services.”
Graduates are eligible to take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) EMT certification exam. Upon passing the NREMT exam, graduates receive the Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician credential and become eligible to apply for licensure with the State of Florida.
Course Requirements:
EMS 1119 Emergency Medical Technician: 9 credits
EMS 1119L Emergency Medical Technician Lab: 2 credits
EMS 1431 EMT Clinical/Field Experience: 1 credit
Total Program Credits: 12 credits
Graduates – Emergency Medical Technician Class of 2025: Mario Almanza, Hayden Atherton, Jyce Auzenne, Jonathan Baker, Walker Baker, Alexis Bannon, Christian Beard, Eliana Blazek, Jessica Bryant, Kaitlyn Cameron, David Campbell, Louis Caswell, Parker Chambers, Jacob Childers, Jeremie Daniel, Tyler Davidson, Ethan Desmarais, Jerry DiPhillippo, Matthew Faber, Ryan Fenelon, Breanna Fisher, Ellieanna Flint, Allison Foley, Giselle Gamez, Amelia Garcia, Grace Gil, Jason Goff, James Goughler, Mya Griffith, Aidan Harrison, Tyler Hazlett, Hugo Hernandez, Matthew Hernandez, Matthew Hirl, Zachary Holbrook, Ryan Holderfield, Dylan Huddleston, Toure Kahl, Nicholas Krestalude, William Lane, Lashley Laurent, Genora Littlejohn, Joseph Lucchini, Brandon Marrero, Traive Martinez, Cameron Meyer, Joseph Milles, Jenna Missett, Raymond Missett, Taggert Mowery, Alexander Murcia, Michael Nix, Ciaran O’Connor, Ava Partlow, Harsh Patel, Logan Penney, Cristian Perez-Velasquez, Priyansh Pilly, Joseph Pociask, Anthony Riesgo, Troy Roscoe, Kyle Ruderman, Braden Safdir, Peter Salamone, Elyse Sierra, Kolton Sivalls, Darshan Stone Jr, Wyatt Thornton, Brenna Tietz, Jason Tropepe, Angel Vazquez, Nicolas Viteri, Michael Walsh, Ryan Wolfe
Career Opportunities for Graduates:
Emergency Medical Technician
Public Safety Telecommunicator
About Indian River State College Public Service Academy: The Public Service Academy at Indian River State College operates at the Public Safety Training Complex in Fort Pierce, Florida. The Academy offers comprehensive training programs for individuals pursuing careers in emergency services and public safety. The Academy provides state-of-the-art facilities and experienced instruction to prepare students for careers serving their communities.
Accreditation and Standards:
Program meets National EMS Education Standards
Program meets State of Florida statutes and administrative code requirements
Graduates eligible for NREMT certification
Graduates eligible for Florida EMT state licensure
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (November 21, 2025) — Indian River State College (The River) celebrated exceptional dedication and achievement at its 2025 Service Awards Reception, recognizing individuals and teams whose contributions have significantly advanced The River’s strategic priorities and mission.
Strategic Goal and Special Award Recipients
Thomas Lewis received recognition for Meritorious Service for improving student success. Gracia Buzziz was honored for Meritorious Service for increasing college-going in the community. The college’s Canvas Implementation Team of Jessica Bajarano, Molly Goyette, Stephen Hayden, Elizabeth Jefferson, April Litton, and Veronica Mena received recognition for Meritorious Service for promoting continuous improvement to enhance organizational performance.
Alisa Brown received the True North Navigator Award, recognizing a team member who excels in directing courses of action in alignment with the Strategic Plan. Frank Schlitt was presented with the Peregrine Award, honoring an external contributor of distinction. Ann Sampson was named Team Member of the Year, recognized by her peers as a top role model for staff excellence.
Indian River State College President Timothy E. Moore congratulates Ann Sampson, recipient of the 2025 Team Member of the Year Award, during The River’s Service Awards Reception. Sampson was recognized by her peers as a top role model for staff excellence.
“These exceptional individuals and teams represent the very best of Indian River State College,” said President Timothy E. Moore. “Their dedication, innovation and commitment to our students and community embody the values that make The River a leader in higher education.”
Alessandra Thompson, vice president of human resources, added: “Our employees are the foundation of everything we accomplish at The River. These honorees exemplify the dedication and innovation that define our college culture.”
Years of Service Recognition
Thirty-Five Years: Janine Merriman and Douglas Wilberscheid
Twenty-Five Years: Alexandra Anez, Steven Daniello, Audrey Delaune, Laura Kauffman, Rosemarie Mason, Vicky Ortiz-Lopez, Carla Parker and Latrice Thomas
Twenty Years: John Butler, Simone Griffith, Charles Hilton, Anna Hutcheson, Dr. Sarah Mallonee, Paula Rich, Paul Sanchez, Judy Smith, David Suba, Jose Veliz, Dr. Racquida Williams and Joe Wilson
Fifteen Years: Dr. Ron Carlson, Dr. Michelle Cuba, Sikita Goodrich, Dr. Steven Hammer, Sarita Hmamly, Molly Lalla, Viviane Mignone and Dr. Lisa Mosing
Ten Years: Butch Almberg, Dr. Beth Amey, Dr. Suchi Banerjee, Dr. John Bray, Dr. Scott Brewer, Dr. Armon Copeland, Dr. Brian Freeman, Gina Halleran, Jerelyn Moore, Angie Neely-Sardon, Steven Nicholson, Dr. Ogugua Onyejekwe, Casandra Raya, Christine Richard, Frances Rowles, Alma Umana and Dr. Robin Zide
The Indian River State College 2025 Service Awards Reception was held at the College’s Eastman Advanced Workforce Complex at the college’s main campus in Fort Pierce, Florida.
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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.
Scott Kimmelman, Indian River State College Athletics Director, has been elected to the prestigious FCSAA Hall of Fame, while Alex Kanter, Associate Dean and Director of Theatre and Dance, has been recognized for his service on the FCSAA Executive Committee for 2024-2025. The honors were presented by Rob Chaney, Associate Director and Athletics Commissioner at The River’s November Meeting of the Board of Trustees.
A Legacy of Championship Excellence
Kimmelman has been a part of the College’s Athletics Department since October 1993, beginning as an Assistant Coach for The River’s legendary swimming and diving program. After being promoted to head coach in June 2002, he guided both the men’s and women’s teams to NJCAA National Championships in 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006—contributing to what is now a record-breaking 51 consecutive championships for the men and 43 in a row for the women. In June 2006, Kimmelman was promoted to Director of Athletics, a position he continues to hold with distinction. Under his leadership, all of The River’s sports have flourished, including the softball team’s NJCAA World Series title in 2024. His coaching career boasts 26 National Championships, with 40 more earned as an administrator, and his accolades include NJCAA Men’s Swimming Coach of the Year (2003, 2004, 2005), NJCAA Women’s Swimming Coach of the Year (2006), induction into the NJCAA Swimming & Diving Hall of Fame (2011), and the NJCAA Jack Cistriano Service Award (2012).
“It is a tremendous honor to be inducted into the FCSAA Hall of Fame,” said Kimmelman. “Ironically, this recognition I am receiving represents the accomplishments of the athletes and coaches with whom I have worked over my more than three decades at the college. I have never swum a stroke, performed a dive, thrown a ball, stolen a base, or made a free throw. I have simply provided athletes with opportunities to further themselves both academically and athletically.”
Beyond Indian River State College, Kimmelman has served as Chair of the Southern Conference and on the Council for Athletic Affairs’ Executive Board. He led the start-up of the Citrus Conference as the Chair during its inaugural year. He has also been a member of the Board of Directors for both Florida Swimming and the Treasure Coast Sports Commission for more than 20 years. Overseeing one of the nation’s premier facilities, he has hosted and administered more than 15 NJCAA Swimming & Diving National Championships and partnered with Treasure Coast Sports to host both the FCSAA Softball Championship at Historic Dodgertown in Vero Beach from 2015-17 and the 2025 Division II Volleyball State Championship.
Leadership at the State Level
Alex Kanter was recognized for his service to the FCSAA Executive Committee, which serves as the chief administrative body of the FCSAA, overseeing day-to-day operations and implementing policies necessary for the Association’s success.
“Serving on the FCSAA Executive Committee has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” said Kanter. “The FCSAA recognizes, celebrates, and validates all of the incredible opportunities available to Florida post-secondary students beyond just the classroom and the computer screens that make College such a transformational experience. Helping theatre departments at each of our state colleges promote their students’ passion and accomplishments onstage and off has truly been an honor.”
Indian River State College President Dr. Timothy E. Moore expressed his pride in these achievements: “Scott and Alex exemplify the excellence and dedication that define Indian River State College. Scott’s decades of championship success and administrative leadership have elevated our athletics program to national prominence, while Alex’s service on the FCSAA Executive Committee strengthens our voice in shaping the future of the Florida College System. These honors are well-deserved recognition of their outstanding contributions to our students and our institution.”
The FCSAA Hall of Fame comprises administrators, coaches, advisors, officials, students, and other nominees who have contributed a minimum of 10 years to FCSAA or one of its member institutions. Inductees are selected by their peers based on their community and state college contributions, achievements, and significant accomplishments.
The Florida College System Activities Association serves as the governing body for intercollegiate athletics and activities across Florida’s 28 public colleges. The FCSAA Executive Committee, with the FCSAA President as presiding officer, is empowered by the Presidents Assembly to initiate policies and implement practices necessary for the Association’s operation.
The Board of Trustees joined President Moore in congratulating Scott Kimmelman and Alex Kanter on these distinguished achievements.
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Nov. 13, 2025) – Nimsi R. Moreno from Fort Pierce Westwood Academy and Christina Theriault from Indian River State College (“The River”) Culinary Institute took home top honors at the 5th Annual Sunshine Kitchen Cookoff, each earning a $1,500 scholarship for their winning dish.
The competition, held at the Sunshine Kitchen in Fort Pierce, paired Indian River State College Culinary Institute students with St. Lucie County Public Schools students. Teams competed in front of judges in categories including plate appearance, taste, teamwork, cooking technique, knife skills, difficulty, and food safety.
The winning team impressed the judges with “It’s the Best Thing We Have Ever Tasted—with a French Twist,” featuring a four-cheese grilled cheese with balsamic glazed onions, candied bacon, apple, and candied pork loin on grilled French bread, garnished with a candied bacon sail, paired with macaroni and cheese topped with chives, candied bacon, and crispy onion slivers. The dish stood out for its balanced flavors, precise technique, and eye-catching presentation. Judges highlighted the team’s ability to manage complex steps under pressure while working seamlessly together, making their entry a clear favorite.
“Competitions like this are the classroom in action. You can see the growth in every plate — technical skill, imagination, and pride in their craft,” said Debbie Midkiff, Department Chair and Instructor for Culinary and Hospitality Programs at The River.
This year’s cookoff featured five teams, each challenged to create grilled cheese sandwiches and macaroni and cheese dishes incorporating pork loin, showcasing both culinary technique and creativity under tight time constraints. Judges noted the impressive range of flavors and presentations, underscoring the talent and potential of the student competitors.
Other Competing Teams:
Janiyah Henry (St. Lucie West Centennial High) and Jorge Cabrera-Valdes (The River)
Victori Brown (Port St. Lucie High School) and Jonathan Satey (The River)
Megan Negron (Fort Pierce Central High School) and Alexis Garces-Kaline (The River)
Madison Adams (Treasure Coast High School) and Jade Febus (The River)
The Indian River State College Culinary Institute offers hands-on training in professional kitchens, real-world experience through community events, and industry-recognized certification preparation. Students graduate ready to succeed in restaurants, hospitality, and food service careers across the region.
This event is made possible through a partnership between Indian River State College, St. Lucie County Public Schools, and the St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners, showcasing a shared commitment to student success, workforce development, and community engagement.
For more information about Indian River State College’s Culinary Institute, visit irsc.edu or contact Debbie Midkiff at culinary@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 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. To learn more, visitirsc.edu.
Florida Nursing Shortage: Critical Need in Rural Communities
By 2035, Florida is projected to face a shortfall of 37,400 registered nurses, according to the Florida Hospital Association in partnership with the Safety Net Hospital Alliance of Florida. “The nursing shortage isn’t just a number on a page—it affects real people who need care,” said Timothy E. Moore, Ph.D., president of Indian River State College. “This grant gives us the resources to recruit students from places like Okeechobee and St. Lucie counties, train them here, and help them build careers in their own communities.”
Project NURSe: Expanding Capacity and Building Partnerships
With HRSA funding, Indian River State College will expand nursing program enrollment to 475 students by fall 2026, with projected annual completions increasing to over 140 registered nurse graduates entering the healthcare workforce in rural and medically underserved areas. The grant funds dedicated staff to support this expansion, and additional nursing faculty and clinical preceptors will be recruited to maintain The River’s accreditation standards and educational excellence.
Project NURSe implements a “grow your own” workforce development model: by recruiting nursing students from the communities that need them most and providing clinical experiences in local healthcare facilities, the program increases the likelihood graduates will remain and practice as registered nurses in their communities long-term.
Project NURSe will provide comprehensive student support, including tutoring, NCLEX-RN exam preparation, and transportation stipends for clinical rotations. The initiative also includes a Dedicated Education Hospital partnership with Raulerson Hospital in Okeechobee County, where nursing students receive one-to-one preceptorship and direct pathways to employment.
About Indian River State College’s Nursing Program
Indian River State College’s School of Nursing has been preparing registered nurses for the Treasure Coast region since 1965. The Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program combines rigorous classroom instruction with extensive clinical experience in acute care, long-term care, and community health settings.
The program earned continuing accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) in 2022 with no areas needing development and two noted program strengths. Indian River State College nursing graduates consistently achieve program completion rates above the national average for ACEN-accredited programs—and go on to pass the NCLEX-RN licensure exam at rates that exceed state and national benchmarks. The Florida Board of Nursing has recognized the program for its excellence.
“Demand for registered nurses on the Treasure Coast is real and rising,” said Dr. Patricia Gagliano, Dean of Nursing at Indian River State College. “This HRSA grant allows us to expand our nursing program responsibly. Our graduates enter healthcare practice confident, competent, and community-focused, prepared to address the unique health challenges facing rural and underserved populations in Florida.”
Project NURSe offers two nursing education pathways: a Traditional ADN cohort with extensive clinical rotations in acute care, pediatrics, maternal/child health, mental health, and community health settings; and an Advanced Placement Bridge cohort for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Paramedics, and Registered Respiratory Therapists, offering advanced placement credit and expanded clinical experience in long-term care settings—a critical healthcare need in rural areas.
Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure examination and enter high-need registered nurse roles across acute care hospitals, long-term care facilities, ambulatory care, and community health settings. Many graduates continue their nursing education at Indian River State College to complete the RN-to-BSN bachelor’s degree program.
With the opening of Indian River State College’s 50,000-square-foot state-of-the-art nursing education center in 2023, The River’s School of Nursing expanded to double the number of nursing program graduates.
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 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. To learn more, visit irsc.edu.
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_gcl_ag
Stores the most recent "gbraid" (advertising click id) set from an interaction with an ad on Googles advertising network(s). This data is used to measure advertising performance.
90 days
_gcl_aw
Stores the most recent "gclid" (advertising click id) set from an interaction with an ad on Googles advertising network(s). This data is used to measure advertising performance.
90 days
Name
Description
Duration
_fbc
Stores the most recent "fbclid" (advertising click id) set from an interaction with an ad on Facebook or Instagram. This data is used to measure advertising performance.
90 days
_fbp
Stores a pseudo anonymous browser (client) ID that is used to help calculate unique users to the website.
