News Topic: Special Events

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

Indian River State College Proudly Celebrates April as Florida College System Month

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (April 3, 2026) — Indian River State College is proud to join Florida’s 28 state colleges in celebrating Florida College System Month this April.

A welding student wearing protective gloves and a helmet creates a bright arc of sparks while working on a metal surface in a workshop. — Skilled. Focused. Ready for the workforce. Our welding students are sparking something great.

Florida ranks number one in the nation in higher education, workforce education, graduation rates, affordability, and attracting and retaining talent. Indian River State College — known throughout the Treasure Coast region as The River — is a proud and powerful contributor to that distinction.

“At Indian River State College, we see every day what accessible, affordable education does for our students and for the communities of Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties,” said President Timothy E. Moore. “Florida College System Month is an opportunity to celebrate not just what we have built, but what our students have accomplished — and to recommit to opening doors for every person on the Treasure Coast who wants to build a better life.”

THE RIVER: A TREASURE COAST INSTITUTION WITH STATEWIDE IMPACT

Indian River State College serves students across the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee through a full spectrum of educational pathways — from industry certifications and associate degrees to bachelor’s degree programs. With more than 130 total programs, The River prepares students for careers in healthcare, technology, business, public safety, the arts, and beyond.

Statewide, Florida College System students earned 137,090 degrees, certificates, and industry certifications in 2024-25. Industry certifications alone grew by more than 8%, building on a 15% increase the prior year. Career and Technical Education enrollment has grown 54% since 2018-19, with more than 293,000 students enrolled across Florida’s state colleges. Indian River State College students are a vital and growing part of that success.

THE PROMISE PROGRAM: MAKING COLLEGE REAL FOR TREASURE COAST STUDENTS

Indian River State College is home to the Promise Program, which makes a tuition-free associate degree possible for qualifying students from Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties. The Promise Program is a shining example of what the Florida College System stands for — removing financial barriers, eliminating student debt, and proving that where you come from does not determine where you can go.

A graduate in a blue cap and gown wearing a gold "PROMISE" stole smiles with five family members outdoors at a commencement ceremony. — The moment makes it all worth it. Congratulations to our graduates — your family’s pride says it all.

For families across the Treasure Coast region who once believed college was out of reach, The River and the Promise Program are changing that story — one student at a time.

BACHELOR’S DEGREES AND BEYOND: CLEAR PATHWAYS TO THE FUTURE

Indian River State College offers bachelor’s degree programs, giving students the ability to earn a four-year degree close to home and at a fraction of the cost of a traditional university. In addition, The River’s articulation agreements create seamless transfer pathways for Associate in Arts graduates moving into bachelor’s degree programs at Florida universities.

Statewide, for the students earning degrees in 2023-24, nearly two-thirds of the Associate in Arts graduates transferred the next year into bachelor’s degree programs and nearly 90% of the workforce program graduates were working or continuing their education the next year right here in Florida.

SERVING THOSE WHO SERVE: MILITARY AND VETERANS SERVICES AT THE RIVER

Indian River State College is deeply committed to the men and women who have served our country and to the families who stand beside them. The River’s dedicated Military and Veterans Services Department provides comprehensive support to active-duty service members, veterans, reservists, and their families — helping them navigate benefits, access resources, and succeed academically.

That commitment has been formally recognized. Indian River State College has earned the prestigious Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus Designation, an honor that identifies institutions providing exceptional support to military and veteran students and families.

A smiling U.S. Army soldier in camouflage uniform stands next to the IRSC Pioneer bird mascot on a sunny campus courtyard. — In serving her country and her future, U.S. Army student Angelina Burbank shows her Pioneer pride alongside The River’s mascot, Perry.

Florida’s state colleges enrolled more than 43,000 active-duty service members, veterans, reservists, and their families in 2024-25. At Indian River State College, serving those who have served is not a program — it is a commitment. In the 2024–25 academic year, Indian River State College enrolled 1,345 veterans, active-duty military members, or family members using their VA benefits at the College.

STARTING EARLY: DUAL ENROLLMENT AND THE RIVER’S UNIQUE SCHOOLS

The River believes that the path to a college degree begins before a student ever graduates high school. Through robust dual enrollment programs, high school students can earn college credit tuition-free, getting a head start on their future while saving their families thousands of dollars.

Statewide, more than 103,000 secondary students participated in dual enrollment in 2024-25, saving Florida families more than $95 million in tuition and fees. Indian River State College is proud to contribute to that impact, with students currently participating in dual enrollment programs across the region.

What makes The River truly unique is that Indian River State College directly operates two exceptional schools that bridge secondary and higher education:

An instructor demonstrates a yellow FANUC robotic arm to a group of young students inside a modern engineering lab at the Clark Advanced Learning Center. — The future is being built right here. Young innovators got hands-on with robotics at Clark’s Tech-Know Camp 2025.

Clark Advanced Learning Center in Martin County and Indiantown High School in Indiantown are operated by Indian River State College. This extraordinary distinction gives students in those communities a direct, supported pathway from high school into college programs. These schools reflect The River’s belief that investing in students early, and investing in our communities, is how you change a region’s future.

CIVIC LITERACY AND CITIZENSHIP

Indian River State College is committed to graduating not just career-ready students, but informed citizens. Statewide in 2024-25, Florida College System students completed more than 127,000 U.S. History and Government courses with civic literacy components — more than doubling the number of students per year taking these courses. The River proudly upholds this commitment to civic education as a cornerstone of a complete college experience.

ECONOMIC IMPACT: POWERING THE TREASURE COAST AND BEYOND

As a cornerstone of the Treasure Coast regional economy, Indian River State College delivers a powerful and measurable impact, generating more than $1 billion in annual economic output and supporting over 15,000 jobs through its operations, alumni, and regional partnerships. According to analyses by Florida TaxWatch in 2024, the College produces an exceptional return on investment—contributing approximately $6.69 in economic activity for every $1 spent in Florida—while equipping students with skills that translate into long-term earning potential.

Through transformative initiatives like the Promise Program and Career and Technical Education programs, The River strengthens critical industries such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and hospitality, while driving workforce development across Indian River, Martin, St. Lucie, and Okeechobee counties. Continued investments in facilities, technology, and training further position the College as a leading force in regional growth, expanding opportunity for students and fueling economic prosperity throughout the state.

A MESSAGE FROM EDUCATION LEADERS

“I’m proud to celebrate our Great 28,” said Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas. “Florida is the number one state in workforce education, and our colleges are essential to that success. With high-quality, affordable programs that limit student debt, the Florida College System sets the national standard for excellence.”

“Florida’s college system is second to none, leading the nation with innovation and purpose,” said Senior Chancellor Kevin O’Farrell. “With more than 800 career and academic programs, the Florida College System puts students on a path to prosperity and equips them with the skills needed for Florida’s future workforce.”

“At Indian River State College, we are deeply connected to the communities we serve, and Florida College System Month is a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact our work has throughout the Treasure Coast region,” said Dr. Angela Browning, Vice President of Research, Governmental Relations, and Institutional Effectiveness. “Every day, we see students overcome barriers, discover their potential, and step confidently into careers that strengthen our region’s future. Whether through workforce training, dual enrollment, or programs like the Promise Program, we are committed to ensuring that opportunity is not limited by circumstance. At The River, student success drives everything we do.”

“At Indian River State College, we are driven by a clear purpose: to expand opportunity and empower success at every stage of a student’s journey,” said Provost Dr. Heather Belmont. “Florida College System Month highlights the transformative impact of our work — from dual enrollment students taking their first college courses, to graduates launching meaningful careers across the Treasure Coast and beyond. At The River, we remain committed to innovation, academic excellence, and ensuring every student has a clear, affordable pathway to achieve their goals and contribute to Florida’s continued success.”

📊 THE RIVER BY THE NUMBERS

Fast facts about Indian River State College — one of Florida’s Great 28 state colleges

Total Programs	More than 130-degree and certification programs
Counties Served	Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee
Schools Operated	Clark Advanced Learning Center & Indiantown High School
Promise Program	Tuition-free associate degree for qualifying Treasure Coast students
Military & Veterans	Purple Star Campus Designation recipient
Degrees Offered	Associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and certificate programs
Annual Economic Output	$1 Billion annually
Jobs Supported	+15,000 jobs through its operations, alumni, and regional partnerships
Dual Enrollment Students	Approximately 3,500 high school students earning college credit
Florida Ranking	Part of the #1 state in the nation for higher education and workforce training
Learn More	irsc.edu

For more information about Indian River State College, visit irsc.edu. For more information about the Florida College System, visit www.fldoe.org/schools/higher-ed/fl-college-system/.

April 3, 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
Indian River State College and America’s Cutting Edge to Host CNC Machining Industry Roundtable on 4/30/26
Regional manufacturers invited to shape the future of CNC machining workforce training on the Treasure Coast
Participants sharpen their skills at a CNC machining bootcamp hosted by Indian River State College’s School of Advanced Manufacturing, a part of the America’s Cutting Edge (ACE) program’s mission to close the manufacturing skills gap on the Treasure Coast.
FORT PIERCE, FL (March 10, 2026) — Indian River State College (The River), in partnership with IACMI – The Composites Institute’s America’s Cutting Edge (ACE) Program, will host a CNC Machining Industry Roundtable on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at The River’s Eastman Advanced Workforce Training Complex, located at 3209 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, FL 34981.
The event will bring together regional manufacturers, industry leaders, and workforce development professionals for an interactive discussion focused on the current state of machining workforce needs and opportunities across the Treasure Coast and neighboring regions.
“Workforce development is at the heart of what we do at Indian River State College,” said Indian River State College President Dr. Timothy E. Moore. “This roundtable is an important opportunity for manufacturers to engage directly with ACE and the College to ensure our training programs meet the real-world demands of the industry.”
Attendees will have the opportunity to:
1. Access ACE and Indian River State College’s training resources designed to strengthen machining talent pipelines and support long-term workforce development.
1. Identify critical machining workforce gaps and barriers impacting the Treasure Coast and surrounding areas and collaborate on actionable solutions.
1. Provide direct input to guide ACE and The River in aligning training programs with real industry needs, helping shape the future of machining workforce development.
“CNC machining is the backbone of modern manufacturing, and the skills gap we’re facing is real,” said Natalia Chekhovskaya, Advanced Manufacturing Executive Director at Indian River State College. “This roundtable is about bringing industry and education together to have honest conversations about what manufacturers need — and making sure our training programs deliver exactly that. We’re committed to building a workforce pipeline that keeps the Treasure Coast competitive for years to come.”
The roundtable is open to manufacturing company owners and presidents, plant managers, operations managers, production supervisors, and workforce leads. Participation is free of charge.
To register and learn more, visit https://bit.ly/4aQJ1cU, or contact Alexandria Wrobel at awrobel@irsc.edu with any questions.
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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 America’s Cutting Edge (ACE): America’s Cutting Edge (ACE) is a workforce development program led by IACMI – The Composites Institute, designed to revitalize U.S. manufacturing competitiveness through CNC machining training. ACE partners with community colleges and industry stakeholders to develop and deliver cutting-edge training resources that address critical skills gaps in manufacturing.
March 10, 2026
HISTORY MADE AGAIN: INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE SWEEPS THE 2026 NJCAA SWIMMING & DIVING NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
Men Claim 52nd Consecutive Title • Women Capture 48th National Crown
The River Extends the Longest Active Championship Streak in Collegiate Sports History — and Adds Another Crown to the Women’s Historic Total
CHAMPIONSHIP TOTALS
Men’s Team:  52nd Consecutive National Championship
Women’s Team:  48th National Championship Title
FORT PIERCE, FL (March 7, 2026) — In a performance that once again left the collegiate sports world in awe, the Indian River State College (The River) Swimming and Diving program claimed its 52nd consecutive NJCAA National Championship, completing a dominant four-day run at the NJCAA Swimming & Diving Championships hosted at the College’s home pool in Fort Pierce, Florida.
NJCAA National Champions: Indian River State College Men’s Swimming & Diving Team
The men’s team secured their 52nd straight national title, extending the longest active championship streak in all of collegiate athletics. The women’s squad captured their 48th national crown — a total that stands as one of the most decorated championship résumés any program has ever assembled in collegiate sports. Together, the two programs further cemented The River’s standing as the preeminent swimming and diving dynasty in the history of American collegiate athletics.
NJCAA National Champions: Indian River State College Women’s Swimming and Diving Team
“We talk every year about not taking anything for granted, and I think that mindset is what keeps this program going,” said Head Swimming Coach Sion Brinn, a River alumnus, former Olympic swimmer, and 13-Time National Champion Coach. “This group worked incredibly hard all year long. To do it at home, in front of our community, in front of friends and family – this one is very special.”
Competition ran from Wednesday, March 4 through Saturday, March 7, 2026.
The meet in Fort Pierce, Florida produced record-breaking performances on both sides. Sophomore Marcus Johnson rewrote the NJCAA record book twice over, first setting a new national record in the men’s 50-yard breaststroke, then breaking the national record in the men’s 100-yard breaststroke — not once, but twice during the competition. The men’s 400 medley relay team of Noah Smith, Marcus Johnson, Zack Gresham, and Oliver Nell shattered the national record by more than two seconds. That same foursome also equaled the existing national record in the 200-medley relay.
Indian River State College Sophomore and NJCAA Record Holder Marcus Johnson
The women’s program delivered a performance of historic dominance: The River’s women did not lose a single event across the entire championship meet — a sweep that underscored just how complete and commanding their 48th national title truly was.
“This team was something special,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College President. “Broken national records and relay teams rewriting the record books – in front of their own community, in their own pool. That’s the kind of performance you remember forever, and it doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because of an extraordinary culture of excellence that this coaching staff and these student-athletes live every single day. We are incredibly proud of this team – and proud that they have carried an extraordinary legacy forward in such spectacular fashion.”
By virtually any measure, The River’s sustained excellence stands in a class of its own. It’s believed to be among the longest — if not the longest– winning streaks in sports history.
For Brinn — himself a former walk-on athlete at the College who went on to compete at the Olympic level before returning to coach his alma mater — Saturday’s victory marked his 13th national championship as head coach and added another chapter to a legacy he continues to help write.
“When I was swimming here, we were going for 18^th and 19^th,” Brinn said. “To have now won 52 is something I’ll never quite be able to put into words. This is what we work for every single day.”
View full 2026 NJCAA Swimming & Diving Championship results.
Learn more about Indian River State College’s academics, programs, and athletics at irsc.edu.
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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.
March 7, 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
Indian River State College Swimming & Diving Teams Attempting to Win 52nd and 48th NJCAA Titles
NJCAA Swimming & Diving Championships to take place at Indian River State College on March 4-7, 2026.
FORT PIERCE, FL (February 19, 2026) —The men’s team has won 51 consecutive swimming and diving championships, and the women’s team has won 47 national swimming and diving championships, representing the longest championship streaks in collegiate sports history. The dominance of the Indian River State College Swimming and Diving Team is comparable to the legacies of the Boston Celtics, New York Yankees, and the UCLA Bruins.
This March, Indian River State College (The River) will again host the NJCAA Swimming National Championships, bringing the nation’s top junior college swimmers and divers to the Treasure Coast for four days of competition from Wednesday, March 4, through Saturday, March 7. The event marks a continuation of a decades-long tradition, with The River hosting the championships every other year for more than 24 years.
“Hosting the nationals is a pretty nice little tradition, because we have managed to do it every other year for well over 24 years,” said Sion Brinn, Head Swimming Coach at Indian River State College and former Olympic competitor. “It’s a good home competition. It’s nice for the kids to stay in their own environment, and we get probably a little bit more friends, family, spectators that come down to cheer for them.”
Brinn’s journey with Indian River State College exemplifies the program’s legacy. A former walk-on athlete at The River, he went on to compete at the Olympic level before returning home to coach. Now in his 13th year as head coach, he is preparing the team for their 52nd consecutive national championship attempt.
“At the time, as a student-athlete, you didn’t really realize the legacy you’ve already been a part of, because we were only going for 18th and 19th in my two years that were here,” Brinn reflected. “And to see that we’re going for number 52, 30-something years later is pretty impressive, but also pretty cool to be a part of the program for 13 years as a coach and two years as an athlete.”
Championship Schedule and Community Celebration
The championships will feature preliminary competition beginning at 9:30 a.m. each day, with finals starting at 5:30 p.m. A short diving session will follow preliminaries, lasting about an hour between 11:00 a.m. and noon.
Student-Athlete Success Beyond the Pool
Indian River State College’s athletic department has maintained a strong emphasis on academic achievement alongside athletic excellence. This past fall, the athletics department achieved record-breaking academic performance with a 3.4 overall GPA. Three teams, including the women’s swimming and diving team, finished with a 3.51 GPA or higher.
“When I first got here, our GPAs ranged in the 2.7, 2.8 range,” said Stephanie Skidmore, Assistant Director of Athletics at The River. “And now about 15 years later, we’re up in the 3.5 range. So, I think setting the expectations and just kids want to perform. They’re athletes. They’re competitors. That’s what they want here. So, we just set the right expectations.”
The swimming and diving team trains nine times per week, with morning and afternoon practice sessions, as they prepare for the national championships.
“We have a strong team, but I take nothing for chance,” Brinn said. “So, we’re just trying to make sure we get the most of what we can get out of every athlete in every event that they’re potentially training to swim in.”
Historic Legacy and Community Impact
The River’s swimming and diving program holds a distinction that extends beyond the NJCAA level. According to Skidmore, the team’s championship streak represents the longest in all of collegiate athletics, not just junior college competition.
“Our swim team, it’s not just in the NJCAA that we hold this record,” she said. “I believe it’s all records if I am correct, where nobody has won this many. So, it’s fun to get people involved and to see the hard work that these kids are doing and these coaches are doing.”
The athletic department also emphasizes community service, with student-athletes participating in events such as Night to Shine, volunteering with the Humane Society and Treasure Coast Food Bank, and supporting Special Olympics swim meets.
“For the community, it’s a chance to see what we’ve built over the years and come and support what hopefully will be a continuation of traditions that have been coming in the past and continue for years to come,” Brinn said.
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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, visit irsc.edu.
February 19, 2026