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News Topic: Special Events

Okeechobee’s Gil Culbreth Receives 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year Award
Indian River State College Foundation Recognized Community Leader for Visionary Leadership and Commitment to Free Enterprise
OKEECHOBEE, Fla. (October 9, 2025) – The Indian River State College Foundation presented the 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year Award to Mr. H. Gilbert “Gil” Culbreth during a special ceremony held at the Historic Bank of Okeechobee on Oct. 8, 2025. The award, part of the Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneurship Program, recognizes outstanding commitment to the free enterprise system and community betterment.
Timothy E. Moore, Gil Culbreth & Frank Libutti
The gathering of community leaders, business professionals, and supporters celebrated Culbreth’s remarkable entrepreneurial journey and deep community roots as a fourth-generation Okeechobee resident. The event featured a cocktail hour followed by a formal dinner and recognition ceremony.
H. Gilbert “Gil” Culbreth, Jr., has served as leader of Gilbert’s Family of Companies for over 50 years, building upon a family legacy that began in 1924. Under his leadership, Gilbert’s has flourished into a diverse business empire encompassing Gilbert Oil, Gilbert Chevrolet, Gilbert Ford, Gilbert Fleet and Commercial, Gilbert Collision Center, Gilbert Outdoors, Gilbert Transports, Gilbert Line-X, and Gilbert Realty.
With nearly four decades of banking leadership, Gil Culbreth began his service as a Founding Board Member of Big Lake National Bank in 1986. Following the bank’s merger with Seacoast Bank in 2006, he has continued his commitment to the organization, serving on the Seacoast Bank Board of Directors for the past 18 years.
“It is truly humbling to receive this recognition,” said Gil Culbreth. “Here in Okeechobee, we want to continue to expand what my father started in 1924 to make Okeechobee even better than it is today. Entrepreneurship has always been about more than just building businesses – it’s about creating opportunities for others and strengthening the communities we call home. I’m honored to be part of this tradition.”
Culbreth, selected by members of the community, was recognized for his exceptional vision, innovation, and dedication to both enterprise and community development. His extensive community service includes serving as a former director of the Florida Council on Economic Education, the Okeechobee County Board of Realtors, the Okeechobee Economic Council, and the United Way of Okeechobee. He is also a member of the Masonic Lodge, reflecting his commitment to civic engagement and community leadership. Additionally, the Gilbert’s Family of Companies significantly contributes to Indian River State College, demonstrating his ongoing investment in educational excellence and student success.
“Gil Culbreth embodies the entrepreneurial excellence and community dedication that the Dan K. Richardson Award was created to honor,” said Frank Libutti, Chair of the Indian River State College Foundation. “The Foundation is proud to recognize Gil’s remarkable contributions to our region’s economic vitality and his steadfast support of educational opportunity for all students.”
The Culbreth family’s commitment to Indian River State College runs deep, with Gil’s daughter Christa Luna serving as Chair of the Indian River State College Board of Trustees and his son Bert Culbreth serving as a member of the Indian River State College Foundation Board of Directors. Gil and his wife Marie have instilled their values of community service and educational support throughout their family.
Annabel Robertson, Bert Culbreth, Marie and Gil Culbreth, Christa Luna, Timothy & Robin Moore
“As a Foundation Board member, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneur of the Year Award celebrates the values that built our community – hard work, innovation, and giving back,” said Bert Culbreth. “Seeing my father receive this recognition is incredibly meaningful to our family, as it honors not just his business achievements, but his lifelong commitment to supporting education and strengthening Okeechobee. Dad has always taught us that true entrepreneurial success is measured not only by what you build, but by how you help others build their futures too.”
“As Chair of the Indian River State College Board of Trustees, I couldn’t be more proud to see my father recognized with this honor,” said Christa Luna. “Dad has always led by example, showing our family and community that success isn’t just about what you achieve in business—it’s about lifting others up along the way. Our family is deeply honored, and we’re grateful to the Foundation for recognizing what Dad has meant to Okeechobee and this region.”
The Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneur of the Year Award has recognized outstanding entrepreneurial achievement and community leadership for over two decades, with Dan K. Richardson himself receiving the inaugural honor from the program established in his name. Recent recipients of this prestigious award include William “Bill” Marine of Vero Beach, Florida (2024); Art Allen, President of A&G Concrete Pools (2021); Timothy Girard of Vero Beach and Girard Equipment (2017); and Marygrace and Bobby Sexton, founders of Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Company (2015). This annual recognition continues Richardson’s legacy of celebrating entrepreneurs who exemplify both business excellence and dedication to community service throughout Indian River County.
“Gil Culbreth represents the very best of entrepreneurial spirit in our community,” said Indian River State College President Timothy E. Moore, Ph.D. “His achievements and legacy set a powerful example for the next generation of entrepreneurs, demonstrating how business success and community commitment go hand in hand.”
The Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneurship Program was established to celebrate and promote awareness of the free enterprise system, recognizing its vital role in strengthening communities. The program is funded through a leadership contribution from the Lambert Foundation in honor of Mr. Dan K. Richardson and supported by the Indian River State College Foundation alongside 13 additional founding partners. Richardson, a longtime champion of Indian River State College since its founding in 1960, left an enduring legacy through his $600,000 contribution to build the Richardson Center that houses the College’s business school and his decades of support as one of the institution’s earliest foundation contributors.
“Tonight’s celebration captures the spirit of what we’re trying to achieve with this program,” said Annabel Robertson, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at the Indian River State College Foundation. “By recognizing leaders like Gil Culbreth, we are honoring past achievements, while inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs who will continue to drive innovation and economic growth in our region.”
The program serves as a multi-faceted initiative to highlight the impact of entrepreneurship and inspire future business leaders. The annual Entrepreneur of the Year Award is a cornerstone of these efforts, presented to distinguished business founders or leaders who demonstrate exceptional commitment to both enterprise and community.
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About Indian River State College Foundation: The Indian River State College Foundation provides critical funding to ensure program success and student achievement at Indian River State College. Through events like the annual Golf Tournament, the Foundation supports initiatives such as the Promise Program that make higher education accessible to all eligible students in 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 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.
October 10, 2025
Career Expo Connects Treasure Coast Job Seekers with over 50 Employers
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (October 1, 2025) — The wait is over. Today, Indian River State College (“The River”) will host its Fall 2025 Career Expo, a marquee recruiting event where students, alumni, and community members can connect directly with employers ready to hire for full-time, part-time and internship positions.
The Expo will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Eastman Advanced Workforce Training Complex (Building O) on the Massey Campus in Fort Pierce.
More than 50 organizations representing industries from healthcare, aerospace, manufacturing, technology, finance, and local government will participate, offering attendees the chance to expand their networks and explore career pathways.
Featured employers include:
- Enterprise Mobility
- Health First
- Martin County School District
- St. Lucie County Fire District
- Treasure Coast Hospice
- Pursuit Aerospace
- Fifth Third Bank
“This is one of the most direct opportunities for students, alumni, and job seekers in the community to meet face-to-face with employers who are actively recruiting Indian River State College talent,” said Dr. Calvin Williams, associate vice president of advising and career services. “Whether someone is seeking a first job, a career change or an internship, the Expo is designed to connect them with the right opportunities.”
The Career Expo is the culmination of a month-long slate of professional development programming, including resume reviews with employers, a Career Fashion Show, and a Career Closet initiative, which provides free professional attire to students, alumni and community members. “If you look good and feel confident, you’ll interview better,” Williams added. “The Career Closet and Expo work hand in hand to help attendees prepare and present themselves to employers.”
For more information, contact the Indian River State College Career Services at careerservices@irsc.edu or call 772-462-7470.
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October 1, 2025
One Suit Away from Success: Students Find Confidence in the Career Closet
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (September 22, 2025) — All month long, Indian River State College has been opening more than classroom doors. Through a series of career-focused events, including the ongoing Career Closet initiative, the College is helping students step confidently into the workforce ahead of the Career Expo on October 1.
This month, Career Services will host mobile Career Closets, resume reviews with local employers, and a Career Fashion Show where students modeled donated outfits. These events build momentum toward the October 1 Career Expo, where more than 50 employers will recruit for full-time, part-time and internship positions.
Career-ready: A student selects donated professional clothing at the Career Closet, where free attire helps students dress for success.
The Career Closet, located at multiple campuses, provides students with free professional clothing for interviews, career fairs and workplace opportunities. Supported by alumni and community donations, the Closet ensures students are not held back by the cost of attire.
“Professional dress is very important in the process of going to work. A student may love a company but hesitate to even approach them if they don’t have the right attire,” said Dr. Calvin Williams, associate vice president of advising and career services at Indian River State College.
With most Indian River State College graduates remaining in the Treasure Coast region, the Career Closet and Career Expo directly support the local workforce. “Over 75 percent of our graduates stay in the four-county area,” Dr. Williams said. “The economic boost they give our community, based on the knowledge they gained here, is tremendous.”
The Career Closet operates year-round at:
- Massey Campus, Fort Pierce — Room W-104, Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.– 4 p.m. (772-462-7470)
- Pruitt Campus, Port St. Lucie — Room J-111, hours vary (772-336-6221 or 772-336-6213)
- Mueller Campus, Vero Beach — Schumann Center, Building D, regular hours (772-226-2500)
The Career Closet accepts donations of clean, professional attire such as suits, blazers, dress pants, skirts, dresses, shoes and ties.
“Alumni and employers are donating clothing because they know it makes a difference. It’s neighbors helping neighbors, and students lifting each other up,” Williams added.
For more information about Career Services, the Career Closet or the October 1 Career Expo, visit irsc.edu and search “Career Services,” email careerservices@irsc.edu, or call (772) 462-7470.
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September 22, 2025
The River’s Alpha Phi Sigma to Host Haunted House Fundraiser
September 17, 2025 | Alpha Phi Sigma, the criminal justice honor society at Indian River State College (“The River”), will host a haunted house fundraiser for ages 16 and up on October 24 – 25, and October 31 – November 1, from 6 – 11 p.m. The spine-chilling event will take place at the College’s Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex, located at 4600 Kirby Loop Road, Fort Pierce, FL 34981. Brave visitors will navigate through terrifying rooms and creepy hallways where walls might unexpectedly open, while zombies roam the cemetery grounds.
Alpha Phi Sigma’s haunted house promises a scary good time.
Event Details:
- Date: October 24 – 25, and October 31 – November 1, 2025
- Time: 6 – 11 p.m.
- Location: Indian River State College‘s Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex, 4600 Kirby Loop Road, Fort Pierce, FL 34981
- Admission: $10 general public, faculty, and staff; $5 for Indian River State College students with ID or proof of college registration
- Special Notes: Costumes welcome; no full-face masks permitted for safety
- Age Requirement: 16 and over (not recommended for children under 16)
All proceeds from the haunted house will support the Alpha Phi Sigma scholarship fund, providing financial assistance to criminal justice students entering the baccalaureate program.
The community is invited to attend this fundraiser that combines Halloween thrills with support for local students pursuing careers in criminal justice.
For more information about the event, contact kmassnic@irsc.edu.
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September 17, 2025
Remembering 9/11: Indian River State College Honors Fallen Heroes with Tower Run
Sept. 11, 2025 | In solemn remembrance of the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001, more than 100 participants at Indian River State College honored fallen heroes through the college’s annual 9/11 Tower Run at the Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex.
Participants climb the seven-story fire tower during the 2025 9/11 Tower Run, honoring the firefighters of Sept. 11, 2001
To symbolize the firefighters’ climb of the World Trade Center towers, participants climbed the Indian River State College Fire Academy fire tower, a seven-story building, 16 times — the equivalent of one World Trade Center tower ascent. This year, 106 individuals climbed the fire tower, including Criminal Justice faculty, alumni, students, the full Criminal Justice and Fire Academy tracks, two Marine recruiters, and representatives from the Massey Campus.
Several students pushed beyond the challenge to reflect the endurance of first responders. Six Criminal Justice students completed 32 fire tower runs, representing a firefighter’s climb up and down one World Trade Center tower — while two others ran 36 rounds to help teammates finish their journeys.
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.
September 11, 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
Build Your Financial Future: The River’s Fall Seminar Series
WHAT: Fall 2025 Financial Literacy Seminar – A free, two-day virtual educational program designed to help students and community members make informed financial decisions
WHEN:
- Tuesday, October 15, 2025, 5:45 – 8 p.m.
- Wednesday, October 16, 2025, 5:45 – 8 p.m.
WHERE: Virtual event via Zoom (registration required)
WHO: Open to the public
DETAILS: The Indian River State College Center for Financial Literacy will present its fall seminar series, featuring faculty and community professionals addressing key financial topics affecting community residents. Topics include:
Day 1: Savings, Credit Basics and Financial Independence
- Importance of Saving
- Using AI for Personal Savings
- Understanding Credit and Its Importance
- Journey to Financial Independence
Day 2: Insurance, Debt Management, and Financial Independence
- Debt Management Strategies
- Determining Appropriate Debt Levels
- Insurance Needs Assessment
- Florida Homeowner’s Insurance Updates
- Personal Financial Independence Journey
COST: Free
REGISTRATION: https://connect.irsc.edu/event/403191
BACKGROUND: Established in 2018, the Center for Financial Literacy has served over 1,900 students and community members through nine educational seminars, supporting Indian River State College’s mission to develop workforce skills and student success.
CONTACT: Maria Salome Davis: Phone: (772) 226-2557 | Email: medavis@irsc.edu
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
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