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GRADUATE SPOTLIGHTS

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

Read Sela’s Story

Read Keith’s Story

Read Samuel’s Story

Read Avery’s Story

Read Titeus’ Story

News Topic: Workforce Development

Graduate Spotlight: At 60, Anthony Sementelli Reinvents Himself at The River

Anthony Sementelli enrolled at Indian River State College at 58 years old. He applied alongside his two teenage daughters. Two years later, he graduates with a degree in business administration — proof, he says, that life only finishes when you decide it’s over.
When Covid Reset Everything
For most of his adult life, Anthony ran a family business he started as a young man. Then the pandemic hit. Consumer habits shifted. Inflation squeezed margins. The business he had built over decades no longer fit the world he was living in. “Covid kind of took the lights out of that company,” he says plainly. Rather than rebuild something he no longer believed in, Anthony chose a different path entirely. “I realized I really didn’t want to do what I was doing anymore,” he says. “I needed to reinvent myself — and I needed to add some education to match my business experience.” That decision brought him to The River.
A Family Affair: Enrolling with His Daughters
What happened next is the kind of story that doesn’t come along often. As Anthony made his application to The River, so did his daughters — one 17 years old, one 16 and dual-enrolled. They filled out applications together, registered for classes together, and even sat in some of the same courses. “College was a family affair at my house,” he says with a laugh. One daughter has since transferred to a school up north. The other still studies at The River today.
Studying Together: A Give-and-Take Between Generations
Sharing the college experience with his daughters gave Anthony something unexpected: quality time he would never have had otherwise. They studied together, navigated challenges together, and watched each other grow. His daughters saw up close what it takes to re-enter school after 40 years away — relearning study habits, adapting to modern classroom technology, wrestling with concepts that had simply never existed before. Anthony, in turn, saw the pressures his daughters faced as first-time college students and helped them through them. “It was really a give and take,” he says. “A blessing to me.”
The River Made Room for an Adult Learner
Anthony started part time, unsure how far he’d go or how well he’d do. The River met him where he was. “They have resources that make learning easy, if you make those available to yourself,” he says. “As long as you’re willing to put in the time, The River is willing to support that in every way possible.” For a returning adult juggling a completely rebuilt life, that support made all the difference.
A Navy Veteran Who Knows How to Dig In
Anthony’s resilience didn’t appear out of nowhere. He served in the U.S. Navy beginning in 1985, during peacetime, and credits those years as some of the best of his life. “I met some of my lifelong friends there,” he says, “and learned a lot about what it takes to keep our nation free.” That foundation — discipline, perseverance, the ability to adapt — carried him through the obstacles he faced as a student decades later.
Walking Across the Stage at 60
When Anthony crosses the commencement stage this spring, he will do so having completely altered his life to make it happen. “I persevered through the obstacles I faced,” he says, “and now I get to enjoy the benefits of having faced that challenge and succeeded — in a big way.” The man who applied at 58, uncertain of what he could achieve, graduates at 60 with a business administration degree and a clear-eyed sense of what comes next.
His Message: Jump In
To anyone who thinks they’ve aged out of a fresh start, Anthony’s message is direct: you haven’t. “It’s never too late to reinvent yourself,” he says. “I’m a perfect example.” He doesn’t dress it up. “You can do anything you put your mind to. Life only finishes when you decide it’s over.” Then he adds one final word of encouragement that sums it all up: “Jump in. The water’s warm — and the future looks bright.”
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May 15, 2026
Graduate Spotlight: Annmarie McDearmont

Annmarie McDearmont first visited Indian River State College (The River) as a child, drawn in by the planetarium. Years later, she came back as a student — and The River turned a childhood spark into a full-blown science career. This spring, she graduates with a bachelor’s degree in biology, two internships, and a research presentation on her record.
A Science Love Story, Starting Young
Annmarie loved science from the time she was a little kid. She once dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. Over time, though, her focus shifted from working with live animals to working in the lab — and The River’s broad biology curriculum gave her the room to make that discovery on her own terms. “Being here helped me explore different avenues so I could figure out that I wanted to be in the lab,” she says. The planetarium visit planted the seed. The biology program grew it.
A Smooth Path Through the Curriculum
Annmarie arrived at The River with some high school college credits already in hand. Her guidance counselors helped her navigate the scheduling gaps those credits created and set her up for a clean path forward. Once she entered her bachelor’s program, advisor Merle Litvack stepped in and made sure every semester lined up correctly. “She helped me organize my classes and kept me on course for graduation,” Annmarie says. The progression felt natural: general biology first, then molecular biology, organic chemistry, and the deeper science that defines the degree.
Faculty Who Showed Up
When the coursework got tough, Annmarie didn’t face it alone. Faculty across The River — including professors outside the sciences — made themselves available for office hours and personal tutoring sessions in the library labs. “That was definitely very beneficial for when I was having trouble in some classes,” she says. Even the transition from high school to college structure, which she describes as her biggest early challenge, became manageable through study groups, peer connections, and professors who responded every time she asked for help.
The STEM Pioneer Program: A Launchpad for Real Experience
One of the most significant parts of Annmarie’s time at The River came through the STEM Pioneer Program. The program didn’t just build community — it opened doors to internship opportunities that most undergraduates never access. “Seeing familiar faces in all your classes and with your professors makes it very easy to form connections and study groups,” she says of the tight-knit STEM Pioneer community. But the internships changed her trajectory most.
Internship One: Engineering Mosquitoes in Vero Beach
During the first half of her bachelor’s program, Annmarie landed a volunteer-based internship through Merle and the STEM Pioneer Program at a lab in Vero Beach. There, she worked with live mosquitoes and injected mosquito eggs to create genetically engineered insects designed to control vector-borne diseases. “I got to work in an actual lab,” she says. The experience went straight onto her résumé and CV — and gave her a preview of what a real research environment feels like.
Internship Two: Pharmaceutical Research at FAU’s Center for Translational Sciences
For her senior capstone, Annmarie secured an internship at Florida International University’s Center for Translational Sciences — again through Merle. She works in a pharmaceutical lab three days a week, testing drugs and drug delivery systems alongside her principal investigator (PI) and postdoctoral mentor, Dr. Shafi. “The people I’ve met there, the environment — it’s been genuinely incredible,” she says.

Her PI involves her in every step of the research, from designing experiments to preparing presentations. Dr. Shafi works with her daily, answers her questions, and reviews her work. “It really helps you understand what it’s like to work in an actual lab,” Annmarie says.
Presenting Research as an Undergraduate
Before she walks across the commencement stage, Annmarie will have presented her capstone research at two venues: The River’s own Undergraduate Spring Science Symposium and the Center for Translational Sciences. Both presentations add to a CV that already stands out for a graduating bachelor’s student. “That’s another thing I can put on my CV,” she says with characteristic practicality.
The Classroom and the Lab: Two Sides of the Same Education
Throughout her internships, Annmarie kept noticing the same thing: what she learned at The River showed up directly in her lab work. “There were many times I would be doing something at the internship and remember learning about it in class that week,” she says. The connection ran both ways — lab experiences made classroom concepts click faster, and classroom learning made her a more capable intern. That feedback loop, she believes, defines what a strong science education looks like.
What’s Next: The Lab, and Maybe Graduate School
After graduation, Annmarie plans to enter the workforce in lab sciences — pharmaceutical research and biomedical sciences both interest her. Graduate school remains on the table, and her internship record gives her a strong foundation for either path. “There is a lot you can do with a biology degree,” she says. “That’s part of the reason I love it so much.” Walking across the stage will feel a little strange after 18 consecutive years in school — but mostly, she says, it will feel very, very good.
Grateful for the People Who Made It Possible
Annmarie thanks her parents for keeping her grounded through the stressful stretches, her closest friends Cassie and Riley for being her sounding board throughout the journey, and Merle Levac above all — the advisor and STEM Pioneer Program coordinator who connected her to every internship and kept her schedule on track from day one of her bachelor’s program. “She has just been so, so valuable to my experience here,” Annmarie says.
YOUR FUTURE’S IN MOTION.
ARE YOU?
College doesn’t have to be confusing or out of reach.The River gives you the clarity, support, and energy to move—on your terms.
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May 14, 2026
Graduate Spotlight: Samuel Eastmond: From Fractured Ankle to Future Doctor

Samuel Eastmond always had big dreams. A love of basketball, a broken ankle, and a biology program at Indian River State College set him on a path he never expected — one that ends this spring with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a seat in a prestigious physical therapy doctoral program.
Inspired by Family
Samuel didn’t choose Indian River State College by accident. His older brother, Bradley Eastmond, earned his bachelor’s in biology through the same program — and went on to build a thriving career. That success left a lasting impression. “He inspired me to pursue science,” Samuel says. “He got his bachelor’s in biology here and is now very successful.” Following in Bradley’s footsteps, Samuel enrolled at The River and never looked back.
A Rigorous Program, a Supportive Environment
Samuel’s coursework at The River covered organic chemistry, physics, biotechnology, genetics, and microbiology. The curriculum challenged him — but the faculty made the difference. “I loved my instructors here,” he says. “They put me in a very nurturing environment.” Even when Samuel wasn’t sure which direction to take, his professors helped him find his footing. “They aligned me in the perfect position to succeed,” he adds. Two faculty members stand out in particular: Dr. Tom D’Elia and Professor Megan Carroll, both of whom provided hands-on mentorship throughout his studies.
Scholarships Arrived at the Right Moment
Financial support also played a key role in Samuel’s journey. He received scholarships through the Indian River State College Foundation — and the timing could not have been better. “They were vital,” he says. “They came at the perfect time, when I wasn’t sure where funding was coming from.” That support kept him focused on his studies instead of his finances.
His Cohort: An Unexpected Source of Strength
Beyond the classroom, Samuel found community in his classmates. Ask him his favorite memory at The River, and the answer comes quickly. “My cohort has been by my side, supporting me mentally and emotionally,” he says. “I can’t express how much I appreciate them.” That bond, built through long study sessions and shared challenges, became one of the defining parts of his college experience.
A Broken Ankle That Changed Everything
Samuel’s passion for physical therapy grew out of a personal setback. As a young basketball player, he fractured his ankle and feared his athletic dreams were out of reach. Then rehabilitation began — and something clicked. “The rehab process felt like working out, like playing basketball,” he recalls. “It was seamless. And I thought, if I can wake up and do that every day, it wouldn’t feel like work.” That realization pointed him toward a career in healthcare.
Next Stop: Miami
Samuel’s next chapter starts soon. The University of Saint Augustine Health Sciences Program in Miami recently accepted him into their Doctor of Physical Therapy program, with classes beginning in August 2026. His goal is straightforward: earn his doctorate and help people reclaim their lives through rehabilitation — just as someone once helped him.
Advice for Anyone Thinking About Starting
Samuel also has a message for anyone who thinks a college degree is out of reach. “You’re never too old. You’re never too late,” he says plainly. “Anybody can do it with the right persistence and dedication.”
Walking Across the Stage
When Samuel crosses the commencement stage this spring, his brother Bradley — The River alumnus who started it all — will be watching alongside the rest of his family. Samuel already knows how he’ll feel. “Fulfilled, accomplished, relieved, and a little sad that it’s over,” he says with a smile. “It was an amazing part of my journey. I would do it all over again if I could.”
YOUR FUTURE’S IN MOTION.
ARE YOU?
College doesn’t have to be confusing or out of reach.The River gives you the clarity, support, and energy to move—on your terms.
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May 5, 2026
Graduate Spotlight: Sela Vasquez’s Journey from Promise Student to NASA

Sela Vasquez arrived at Indian River State College with curiosity, a love of the unknown, and a dream that most people only read about in textbooks: working at NASA. This spring, she graduates with an associate‘s degree in physics — and a NASA internship already under her belt.
The Promise Program Opened the Door
Sela chose The River for two reasons: the people and the Promise Program. Friends who attended before her spoke highly of the school, and their experiences convinced her it was the right fit. Still, finances were a real concern. “The Promise Program was a great opportunity for students like myself who may not have the funds for a bigger college,” she says. That support changed everything. As a Promise student, Sela focused entirely on her studies — free from the weight of loans or financial stress. “It gave me the opportunity to really study what I enjoy and progress my career,” she adds. “It’s really nice.”
A Scientist on a Mission
Sela doesn’t just want to study space — she wants to help humanity explore it. Her goal is to pursue aerospace engineering and astrophysics, with a focus on space mission development and mission integration at NASA. “NASA’s mission is the basis of humanity,” she says. “Humanity has a unique quality of wanting to know everything, wanting to explore everything. NASA brings that to life.” That conviction has driven every decision she’s made since enrolling at The River.
From the Classroom to Mars — Literally
Last year, Sela earned a spot in NASA’s Mission Concept Academy, a competitive program run in collaboration with Arizona State University. Her team included students from across the country, and together they conceptualized a Mars mission from the ground up. Sela served as chief scientist, leading the science development team.

The mission called for sending a rover to Mars to collect surface albedo data and calculate the likelihood of subsurface ice melting. Her team also designed an experiment to test whether radio-tolerant fungi could protect human skin cells from radiation — a critical challenge for future Mars missions. “It was a great opportunity,” Sela says simply. “Very fun.”

When asked whether her education at The River prepared her for that experience, Sela didn’t hesitate. “Absolutely,” she says. “The River gave me the tools to work within a team and the knowledge to communicate within a professional environment.”
A Faculty Champion Made the Difference
Behind Sela’s success stands Dr. Lynne O’Dell, a faculty member at The River who connected her with career opportunities and opened professional doors along the way. “Shout out to Dr. O’Dell,” Sela says. “She helped me a lot with career advancement and connected me with so many people.” Those connections, she believes, rank among the most valuable things a college can offer.
Next Stop: Florida Tech
After graduation, Sela transfers to Florida Institute of Technology to pursue a degree in astronomy and astrophysics, with a double major in aerospace engineering. The River built her credit foundation and gave her the academic confidence to step into a larger program. “The River supplied me with the knowledge I need to transfer smoothly,” she says. “That is really nice.”
Gratitude That Goes Beyond the Classroom
Sela credits her journey to a village of supporters. Her mother and family pushed her beyond her comfort zone and cheered her forward every step of the way. Her boyfriend stood by her through the hard stretches. Her friends carried her through the entire journey. And to donors who fund programs like Promise, she has a direct message:

“Thank you for supporting not only my dream, but also thousands of other students’ dreams as well. Your contribution really makes a difference. It truly enables opportunities and dreams.”
Advice for Future Students
Sela doesn’t want anyone to overthink the decision to enroll. “College is worth it — 100%,” she says. “Even if you don’t know what you want to do, college gives you the opportunity to explore that and get a better understanding of who you are.” Her advice to incoming students is equally straightforward: take your classes seriously, but don’t forget to enjoy the experience. “These are truly some of the best years of my life,” she says.
We Are The River
At commencement, Sela plans to walk across the stage feeling amazed — and grateful. She composed a spoken-word piece that captures her experience at The River better than any summary could. It ends with a line that says everything:
“When I walk across that stage, I’ll never forget that this is where The River took me. And wherever we go next, we carry it with us. We are The River.”
She’s ready. And the universe is waiting.
YOUR FUTURE’S IN MOTION.
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College doesn’t have to be confusing or out of reach.The River gives you the clarity, support, and energy to move—on your terms.
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May 5, 2026
Graduate Spotlight: Avery Pittman’s Path to Nursing

Avery Pittman came to nursing through a simple but powerful combination: a love of people and a love of science. This May she graduates from Indian River State College with her associate degree in nursing — and a career path already mapped out toward the ICU and beyond.
The Decision That Started It All
Avery didn’t stumble into nursing. She researched her options deliberately and found that nursing checked both of her boxes at once. “I just love people, and I love science,” she says. “Nursing was both of those for me.” She completed her prerequisites and then moved straight into The River’s nursing program. Challenging? Absolutely. Worth it? Without question.
Clinical: Where the Real Learning Happened
Ask Avery about her favorite memories at The River and she goes straight to clinical rotations. “I got to connect with so many different patients and hear their stories,” she says. Those moments — sitting with patients during difficult hours, learning to listen as much as to treat — confirmed everything she had hoped nursing would be. Clinical also brought something else she didn’t expect: lasting friendships. “This program is very tough, so you really stick together and create a bond that can never be broken,” she says. “These are friendships I’ll cherish forever.”
A Clinical Instructor Who Opened the ICU Door
One faculty member stands out above the rest. Dr. White served as Avery’s clinical instructor during her final semester and, crucially, believed in her enough to place her in the ICU. That decision changed Avery’s trajectory. “She really supported me and challenged me throughout all of my clinical experience,” Avery says. “Getting into the ICU really grew my love for nursing.” The placement wasn’t just an assignment — it was a vote of confidence that pointed Avery toward exactly where she wants to go.
Faculty Who Pushed Her to Be Better
The support didn’t stop with Dr. White. Avery credits The River’s nursing faculty broadly for preparing her to walk into the profession with confidence. “They have truly prepared me and challenged me to be a nurse,” she says. “I feel so prepared to go into the profession.” In a field where preparation directly affects patient outcomes, that kind of readiness matters.
Giving Back Through the National Student Nurses Association
Avery also stepped into a leadership role outside the classroom. As historian for The River’s chapter of the National Student Nurses Association, she documented the chapter’s community volunteer work — events where nursing students engaged with children, older adults, and families across the region. “We really get to make a difference in their lives,” she says. For Avery, it was practice for the work ahead.
Scholarships Kept Her Focused
Grants and scholarships also played a role in Avery’s success. The financial support let her put her studies first without the added pressure of worrying about costs. “They meant everything to me,” she says. “It really helped me focus on my studies and make that my priority.”
What Comes Next: PCU, Then the ICU, Then Beyond
Avery’s plan after graduation is clear and ambitious. She starts her career as a Progressive Care Unit (PCU) nurse, then works her way into the ICU — the environment Dr. White first put her in and where her passion deepened. Longer term, she sets her sights on becoming a nurse practitioner. “I am so excited to get to be that person who can be there for someone during the hardest times,” she says. “I’m really looking forward to the future.”
Advice for Anyone Considering Nursing
To anyone thinking about a nursing career, Avery has one piece of advice: see it through. “It’s so rewarding to get to be that person who supports someone at their lowest,” she says. The program is hard — she doesn’t pretend otherwise — but the reward on the other side is exactly what she signed up for.
Walking Across the Stage
When Avery crosses the commencement stage this May, her family, friends, and the support system that carried her through every difficult stretch of the program will be there cheering her on. She thanks them all, along with her instructors, for pushing her and preparing her every step of the way. The girl who loved people and loved science found exactly the right place to bring those two things together — and The River helped her get there.
YOUR FUTURE’S IN MOTION.
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College doesn’t have to be confusing or out of reach.The River gives you the clarity, support, and energy to move—on your terms.
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May 5, 2026
Indian River State College Celebrates Fire Basic Recruit Academy Class #189 Graduation
33 New Firefighters Ready to Serve Treasure Coast Communities
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (April 27 2026) — Indian River State College (The River) graduated 33 new firefighters on Thursday, April 23, 2026. Fire Basic Recruit Academy Class #189 earned the honor after completing one of Florida’s most demanding training programs. Together, these graduates stand ready to protect lives and property across the Treasure Coast and beyond.
Graduates of Indian River State College Fire Basic Recruit Academy Class #189 pose together following their graduation ceremony on Thursday, April 23, 2026. The 33 new firefighters completed one of Florida’s most demanding fire training programs and stand ready to serve communities across the Treasure Coast.
About the Fire Basic Recruit Academy
The Indian River State College Fire Science Academy Training Center runs the Fire Basic Recruit Academy. The center operates under the College’s Division of Public Service Education. Recruits train to meet Florida’s state certification standards for entry-level firefighting.
Specifically, the Academy builds skills in academic coursework, hands-on technical training, and physical fitness. Furthermore, recruits must master firefighting techniques, emergency medical response, and hazardous materials protocols. In addition, they complete life-safety operations training before earning their certificates.
As a result, graduates receive the coveted Academy Challenge Coin — a symbol of excellence and service. The River has long committed to developing first responders who protect Indian River, St. Lucie, Okeechobee, and Martin counties. Notably, the April 23 ceremony honored Class #189.
Ceremony Highlights
The St. Lucie County Honor Guard opened the ceremony with a presentation of colors. Next, attendees recited the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a reading of the Fire Fighter’s Prayer by Kason Bridwell. A video presentation then celebrated the recruits’ journey through the Academy.
Indian River State College President Dr. Timothy E. Moore delivered remarks to the graduates and their families. Executive Dean of Public Service Education Louis J. Caprino, M.A., C.P.P. also addressed the class. Chief Justin Hazellief of Okeechobee County Fire Rescue served as the guest speaker.
Afterward, the College presented awards in three categories: Academic Excellence, Physical Fitness, and Outstanding Recruit. Finally, graduates received their certificates and Academy Challenge Coins.
Award Recipients
- Academic Award: Michael Nix
- Physical Fitness Award: Michael Nix
- Outstanding Recruit Award: Jackson Sandvig
- Class Leader: Adrian Pineiro
- Class #189 Response: Recruit Adrian Pineiro, class leader
Graduates of Fire Basic Recruit Academy Class #189
The following recruits were recognized at the ceremony (* denotes Academy Track Students; + denotes Physical Fitness Leader):
Squad 1 | Class Leader: Kason Bridwell
Erik Archambault, Jeffrey Bobo, Jacob Childers, Jayce Dupree*, Alexander Goldman*, Ryan Hinze*, Dylan Huddleston, Jaydan Hurley*
Squad 2 | Squad Leader: Quwan Hamilton*
Adrian Pineiro (Class Leader), Marlin Jones, Fabian Liriano, Orrin MacVean*, Traive Martinez, Gavin McKnight*
Squad 3 | Squad Leader: Steven Ressler
Jason Mercuri*, Jordan Moreno, Sergio Narvaez*, Michael Nix+, Ben Norris+
Squad 4 | Squad Leader: Jackson Sandvig
Michael Pascual, Alex Pena, Landan Reiter, Anthony Riesgo, Victor Rodriguez*
Squad 5 | Squad Leader: Chandler Thiem
Jeffry Sebastian-Agustin*, Drew Sperber, Jonathan Suesz, Jack Sweatt
Class Lead Instructors
Lieutenant Brian Sexton | Lieutenant Michael Dawson | Firefighter/EMT Christopher Losee | Paramedic Driver Engineer Chad Osterhoudt
Program Leadership
Brian Sexton — Interim Director, Fire Science Academy Training Center
Gregg Dixon — Interim Coordinator, Fire Science Academy Training Center
Louis J. Caprino, M.A., C.P.P. — Executive Dean of Public Service Education
Dr. Timothy E. Moore — President, Indian River State College
Study fire service to at Indian River State College. Visit https://irsc.edu/program/fire-science/ to learn more.
April 27, 2026
Indian River State College Celebrates National Apprenticeship Week
Fort Pierce, Fla. (April 26, 2026) — Indian River State College proudly celebrates National Apprenticeship Week (April 26 – May 2, 2026). During this week, the College highlights the powerful impact of its growing apprenticeship programs. These programs create a direct, debt-free pathway into high-demand careers. At the same time, they strengthen the regional workforce.
A Hands-On Approach to Career Training
Across the nation, organizations recognize apprenticeships as a proven workforce solution. Therefore, Indian River State College continues to lead with an innovative, hands-on model. Students earn while they learn. They work full-time during the day. Then, they attend focused evening classes in their chosen trade.
An Indian River State College electrical apprenticeship student carefully mounts and levels an electrical junction box during a hands-on training exercise.
Leadership Perspective
“Indian River State College is proud to lead the way in expanding apprenticeship opportunities that remove barriers to education and connect students directly to meaningful careers,” said Dr. Heather Belmont. “By working hand in hand with our industry partners, we are creating a stronger workforce and a stronger community here on the Treasure Coast.”
“Apprenticeships are not just about filling positions today—they’re about building sustainable career pathways and strengthening the workforce for the future,” said Apprenticeship Manager Michael Hidalgo. “At Indian River State College, we create opportunities that are accessible, practical, and aligned with real industry needs.”
Programs That Meet Workforce Demand
Currently, Indian River State College offers a range of apprenticeship programs tailored to the Treasure Coast economy. For example, four-year programs include electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Each program requires 8,000 hours of on-the-job training along with classroom instruction.
In addition, the College offers one-year programs in diesel technology, mechanical drafting, and mechatronics. These programs combine 2,000 hours of hands-on training with targeted technical instruction. Consequently, students build skills quickly and enter the workforce with confidence.
Affordable and Accessible Pathways
Equally important, Indian River State College removes financial barriers. The College provides tuition at no cost to students. Therefore, participants avoid student loan debt. While students may purchase tools or materials, they complete their programs without major financial burdens.
An Indian River State College electrical apprenticeship instructor guides a student through conduit bending techniques,
Student Success in Action
For apprentice Nathan Hodges, the program delivered immediate value. He is completing the electrical program and gaining real-world experience.
“It’s been an amazing journey,” Hodges said. “I’ve gained real-world skills, improved my communication, and built a strong foundation for my future—all while working and earning an income.”
Strong Industry Partnerships
At the same time, Indian River State College works closely with local employers. The College gathers input through advisory boards and ongoing collaboration. Then, it adjusts curriculum to match industry needs. As a result, employers build reliable talent pipelines and improve retention.
The tools of the trade: electrical apprenticeship students at Indian River State College arrive equipped with the instruments of a working electrician, from multimeters and wire strippers to drill drivers and measuring squares.
“Instead of searching for talent, employers are helping to develop it,” Hidalgo added. “That benefits everyone—the apprentice, the employer, and the entire community.”
Looking Ahead
Looking forward, Indian River State College plans to expand its apprenticeship offerings. The College aims to include additional fields such as technology and emerging industries. Ultimately, this growth will increase access to career-focused education across the region.
How to Get Started
To begin, prospective apprentices must work in their chosen field. They also need basic qualifications, including English proficiency and availability for evening classes. Meanwhile, employers can partner with Indian River State College to develop customized training programs that meet their workforce needs.
For more information about apprenticeship opportunities at Indian River State College, visit irsc.edu or contact the Apprenticeship Office at apprenticeship@irsc.edu or 772-462-7390. Click here to begin your application.
April 26, 2026
Okee-One Data Campus: Bringing Lasting Educational Resources and Economic Opportunity to our Community
Indian River State College is proud to be leading Okee-One — a transformative workforce development initiative and our vision to bring a vibrant new campus forward for Okeechobee. By transforming the 205-acre former Florida School for Boys site into a fully operational, community-anchored data and technology campus, we are creating real career pathways for Okeechobee residents and hands-on learning opportunities for students in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries.
Okee-One will serve as a living learning lab where students train alongside real-world infrastructure, Okeechobee residents earn skilled, well-paying careers, and a historically significant piece of land becomes a source of regional pride and economic strength.
Workforce development is central to the College’s vision. Okee-One is directly connected to Indian River State College’s technical workforce programs, including but not limited to technology, cybersecurity, electrical systems, welding, and HVAC – and Okeechobee graduates will be first in line for the careers this campus supports.
The project is currently in the development stage as we work to find partners that will align with and support our vision.
FAQs
What exactly is Okee-One, and what is The River’s vision?
Okee-One is Indian River State College’s vision to transform the 205-acre former Florida School for Boys site into a fully operational, community-anchored data and technology campus. The River’s vision is to create a living learning lab where students train alongside real-world infrastructure, Okeechobee residents earn skilled careers in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries, and a historically significant piece of land becomes a source of regional pride and economic strength. Okee-One will promote economic development and workforce development for the emerging digital economy.
Will this project actually create jobs for Okeechobee residents?
Absolutely — and local workforce development is central to why The River is leading this project. Okee-One is directly connected to Indian River State College’s programs in IT, cybersecurity, electrical systems, and other technical workforce programs.
What is being done to protect wildlife and natural habitats on the property?
Indian River State College contracted with Kimley-Horn to ensure we were meeting all of the state and federal requirements to identify and protect the species identified on site and to be good stewards of the surrounding natural resources.
Will this data campus drive up electricity prices for Okeechobee residents?
No. Okee-One is envisioned as a 9-to-10-megawatt facility, integrated into existing infrastructure that supports the current on-site development.
Will the data campus threaten the community’s water supply?
No. The intention is to build a facility that is supported by existing infrastructure. The Okee-One site is also close to Okeechobee Utility Authority’s existing water reclamation facility, which may work for the campus’s cooling operations.
Is it appropriate to redevelop the former Florida School for Boys site?
Indian River State College takes the history of this site seriously. A cultural resources assessment survey was completed. The intent is to transform this land into a campus of education and opportunity for a new generation of Floridians.
How has the community been involved as the project comes to fruition?
The project has been presented before the Okeechobee Board of County Commissioners and the Okeechobee City Council in public sessions, and The River’s leadership has engaged with local government and economic development partners throughout. The College is committed to ongoing, open dialogue.
Questions?
Contact: Indian River State College | 772-462-4772 or PIO@irsc.edu
March 26, 2026
RiverBlog: 60 Years of Care: Indian River State College’s Nursing Program Celebrates a Milestone — and Looks to the Future
Six decades ago, Indian River State College made a promise to the Treasure Coast: we will train the nurses this community needs. As the college reflects on the 60th anniversary of Indian River State College’s Associate Degree Nursing program, that promise has never been stronger.
Before simulation labs and digital records, nursing education was built on hands-on instruction and dedication. This 1975 photo captures practical nursing students at Martin Memorial Hospital — part of a long tradition of clinical training that Indian River State College has carried forward for 60 years.
Since 1965, thousands of graduates have walked out of this program and into emergency rooms, ICUs, pediatric wards, and community clinics across our region and beyond. Today, when you walk into Cleveland Clinic or Lawnwood Regional Medical Center, there is a very good chance your nurse is an Indian River State College graduate — and that they chose to stay right here on the Treasure Coast to serve the community that trained them.
A Program Built for This Community
What makes Indian River State College’s nursing program truly distinctive is its deep roots in the region it serves. Executive Dean Dr. Patty Gagliano, who leads the college’s Health Sciences Division, describes a program that has grown alongside the community — one where it is not uncommon for a student to walk in and say their parent sat in the same classroom, trained in the same clinical settings, and built a career right here at home.
A new chapter begins. Guests got their first look inside Indian River State College’s state-of-the-art School of Nursing simulation center during the 2023 ribbon cutting, where faculty demonstrated the cutting-edge technology preparing the next generation of Treasure Coast nurses.
“It is a full circle life,” Dr. Gagliano shared on a recent episode of River Talk on Indian River State College Public Media. “When you see a parent and a child in our program, graduating and working — that speaks to the quality of what we do and the breadth and depth of who we reach.”
Dr. Patty Gagliano, Executive Dean of Health Sciences at Indian River State College, has dedicated her career to building a nursing program that serves — and reflects — the community it trains.
John Ramfjord, Senior Development Director at the Indian River State College Foundation, has seen that quality firsthand. In his first weeks on the job, he met with healthcare partners across the region and heard the same thing repeatedly: Indian River State College nurses are different.
“The stories I heard about hiring Indian River State College nurses meant that they were getting a quality employee,” Ramfjord said. “They weren’t leaving, they were staying. You hear stories all the time of high turnover in nursing and nursing shortages — but this is one of the few places at full capacity, in part because of the quality of students coming out of Indian River State College.”
That reach extends to Indian River State College’s state-of-the-art simulation center, located at the College’s Pruitt Campus in Port St. Lucie. The simulation center replicates a real nursing unit with 11 fully equipped rooms, the same alarms, tools, and equipment students will encounter in any acute care facility in the area. Students gain hands-on experience from birth to hospice care — all in a controlled, safe environment — before ever setting foot on a hospital floor. Ramfjord, who has toured nursing programs at colleges and universities across the country, is direct in his assessment.
“I have seen several other colleges and universities with nursing programs, and they pale in comparison to the resources that we have here for preparing our nurses,” he said. “It is second to none.”
It is, by any measure, one of the finest nursing training facilities in the state.
Celebrating 60 Years — and Funding the Next 60
To mark this milestone, the Indian River State College Foundation is launching the 60 for 60 Campaign — an initiative inviting the community to give $60 or more in celebration of 60 years of nursing excellence. Every gift will help shape the next generation of nurses, supporting scholarships, student resources, and faculty development.
Indian River State College School of Nursing student Andrew MacDonald practices life-saving skills in the college’s simulation lab — the same skills he will carry into hospitals and healthcare facilities across the Treasure Coast.
As Dr. Gagliano put it, “Foundation support opens doors — for students to get into the campus, through scholarship, through the resources they need to be successful.” Faculty, she notes, are “the unsung heroes” of nursing education, providing the one-on-one mentoring and guidance that carries students across the finish line from student to nurse.
Ramfjord sees the campaign as a natural extension of the pride the community already has in this program. “The buy-in is a sense of pride that the community has in the quality of students that Indian River State College Nursing produces — and that’s what has allowed the 60 years to continue,” he said. “I’d like to see that continue, which is why we’re having this campaign.”
To learn more or get involved in the 60 for 60 Campaign before its official launch, contact John Ramfjord at 772-462-7244, or visit giving.irsc.edu.
Is Nursing Your Path? Find Out April 6th
Whether you are working a job you do not love, a recent graduate looking for direction, or a CNA or EMT ready to take the next step — Indian River State College wants to meet you where you are.
Teamwork is at the heart of nursing. An Indian River State College instructor guides students through a collaborative patient care simulation, mirroring the real-world clinical environments they will enter upon graduation.
“It’s not a physical appearance where they all look the same,” Ramfjord noted of Indian River State College nursing students. “It’s the internal drive, the internal motivations. The willingness to care is what our nursing students look like.”
The college is hosting a Nursing and Health Sciences Open House on Monday, April 6th, from 4:30–6:30 p.m. at the Pruitt Campus. Simulation labs will be open, faculty will be on hand, and advisors, financial aid officers, and library services staff will all be available to answer your questions. It is a chance to see yourself in the role — and to see what 60 years of excellence looks like up close.
Learn more and plan your visit at irsc.edu.
River Talk is produced by Indian River State College Public Media and is available at wqcs.org. The full episode featuring Dr. Patty Gagliano and John Ramfjord is available now.
March 24, 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