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News Topic: Workforce Development

Indian River State College Awarded $3.25 Million Federal Grant to Address Florida’s Nursing Shortage

HRSA Nurse Education Grant Funds Project NURSe to Expand Nursing Program Enrollment in Rural and Medically Underserved Communities

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Nov. 13, 2025)—Indian River State College (“The River”) has been awarded a four-year, $3.25 million grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) through the Nurse Education, Practice, Quality and Retention (NEPQR) – Workforce Expansion Program (WEP). The federal investment will enable The River’s School of Nursing to significantly increase enrollment in its Associate Degree nursing (ADN) program through Project NURSe (Nursing Workforce Expansion), preparing more practice-ready registered nurses to serve the Treasure Coast region’s rural and medically underserved communities.

Florida Nursing Shortage: Critical Need in Rural Communities

By 2035, Florida is projected to face a shortfall of 37,400 registered nurses, according to the Florida Hospital Association in partnership with the Safety Net Hospital Alliance of Florida. “The nursing shortage isn’t just a number on a page—it affects real people who need care,” said Timothy E. Moore, Ph.D., president of Indian River State College. “This grant gives us the resources to recruit students from places like Okeechobee and St. Lucie counties, train them here, and help them build careers in their own communities.”

Project NURSe: Expanding Capacity and Building Partnerships

With HRSA funding, Indian River State College will expand nursing program enrollment to 475 students by fall 2026, with projected annual completions increasing to over 140 registered nurse graduates entering the healthcare workforce in rural and medically underserved areas. The grant funds dedicated staff to support this expansion, and additional nursing faculty and clinical preceptors will be recruited to maintain The River’s accreditation standards and educational excellence.

Project NURSe implements a “grow your own” workforce development model: by recruiting nursing students from the communities that need them most and providing clinical experiences in local healthcare facilities, the program increases the likelihood graduates will remain and practice as registered nurses in their communities long-term.

Project NURSe will provide comprehensive student support, including tutoring, NCLEX-RN exam preparation, and transportation stipends for clinical rotations. The initiative also includes a Dedicated Education Hospital partnership with Raulerson Hospital in Okeechobee County, where nursing students receive one-to-one preceptorship and direct pathways to employment.

About Indian River State College’s Nursing Program

Indian River State College’s School of Nursing has been preparing registered nurses for the Treasure Coast region since 1965. The Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program combines rigorous classroom instruction with extensive clinical experience in acute care, long-term care, and community health settings.

The program earned continuing accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) in 2022 with no areas needing development and two noted program strengths. Indian River State College nursing graduates consistently achieve program completion rates above the national average for ACEN-accredited programs—and go on to pass the NCLEX-RN licensure exam at rates that exceed state and national benchmarks. The Florida Board of Nursing has recognized the program for its excellence.

“Demand for registered nurses on the Treasure Coast is real and rising,” said Dr. Patricia Gagliano, Dean of Nursing at Indian River State College. “This HRSA grant allows us to expand our nursing program responsibly. Our graduates enter healthcare practice confident, competent, and community-focused, prepared to address the unique health challenges facing rural and underserved populations in Florida.”

Project NURSe offers two nursing education pathways: a Traditional ADN cohort with extensive clinical rotations in acute care, pediatrics, maternal/child health, mental health, and community health settings; and an Advanced Placement Bridge cohort for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Paramedics, and Registered Respiratory Therapists, offering advanced placement credit and expanded clinical experience in long-term care settings—a critical healthcare need in rural areas.

Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure examination and enter high-need registered nurse roles across acute care hospitals, long-term care facilities, ambulatory care, and community health settings. Many graduates continue their nursing education at Indian River State College to complete the RN-to-BSN bachelor’s degree program.

With the opening of Indian River State College’s 50,000-square-foot state-of-the-art nursing education center in 2023, The River’s School of Nursing expanded to double the number of nursing program graduates.

Learn More & Apply: Explore Indian River State College’s nursing pathways at https://irsc.edu/program/nursing/.

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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.

November 13, 2025
RiverBlog: Training Tomorrow’s Hospitality Leaders at The River

Florida welcomed a record-breaking 143 million visitors in 2024 – nearly 3 million more than the previous year. But here’s the challenge facing the Treasure Coast and beyond: 76% of hotels nationwide are experiencing critical staffing shortages, with housekeeping being the most urgent need.

The hospitality industry is booming, but it desperately needs trained professionals. That’s where Indian River State College comes in.

Students in Chef Deborah Midkiff’s International and Regional Cuisine class at Indian River State College prepare a menu on October 25, 2023.

Building the Pipeline

In a recent episode of RiverTalk on IRSC Public Media, host Kathleen Walter sat down with Professor Deborah Midkiff, chair of the Hospitality and Culinary Management Department, along with students Megan DiPietro and Emily Day. Their conversation revealed how The River is addressing the workforce gap right here on the Treasure Coast.

“I think a lot of times people feel that what we do only happens in the classroom with our students, and that certainly is a big piece of it, preparing them for the workforce,” explained Professor Midkiff. “But another piece of that is, how do we connect all the pieces of the pipeline?”

That pipeline starts as early as middle school, exposing young students to hospitality and culinary careers. It continues through partnerships with local high schools, connections with employers seeking great talent, and even pre-apprenticeships in the area.

Students in Chef Deborah Midkiff’s International and Regional Cuisine class at Indian River State College prepare a menu.

More Than Just Cooking and Serving

Many people think hospitality education is limited to learning to cook or serve tables. The reality is far more expansive.

Indian River State College offers a two-year AS in Hospitality and Tourism Management, covering food and beverage, special event management, lodging, and travel and tourism. Some students have gone on to work with the county tourism board. The college also offers a degree in Culinary Management, where students learn not just cooking techniques but the leadership skills to become future sous chefs and executive chefs.

One standout program is the Culinary Apprenticeship – an “Earn While You Learn” initiative. It’s a one-year, tuition-free program where students work 40 paid hours per week in restaurants that cook from scratch, rotating through stations under highly skilled chefs.

Recently, Indian River State College reinvigorated its two-year Restaurant Management degree for students specifically interested in the restaurant side of hospitality, without the lodging component.

Students in The River’s Hospitality and Culinary Management programs gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art kitchen classrooms, preparing for careers in Florida’s booming tourism industry.

Real Students, Real Success

Megan DiPietro came to Indian River State College after working at and managing a coffee shop. “I didn’t really know what I wanted to do,” she recalled. When she discovered the culinary management program, she realized it combined two things she loved: working with food and management.

Now working at Sweet Desires Bakery, Megan sees how her education translates directly to the workplace. “The program gives you a base, a nice foundation for wherever you go to work,” she said. “Even when I went into working at the bakery, I had very little experience with that. But I was able to hit the ground running.”

Emily Day was drawn to hospitality because of her experience in food and beverage and managing personal estates. “I just kind of saw this degree option and thought that it was a good opportunity to kind of broaden my understanding of hospitality and the options that it offered,” she explained. In addition, Emily completed a summer internship at Chef’s Table Restaurant in Stuart and now has a position with them working with special events and catering.

What Employers Really Want

Indian River State College meets quarterly with an advisory board of industry professionals from restaurants, hotels, and even medical facilities that need hospitality workers. Their consistent message? Soft skills matter most.

“We’ve continued to hear soft skills,” Professor Midkiff noted. “What we’re really narrowing it down to is communication skills, teamwork… time management, prioritization are key things that they’re looking for.”

These skills are woven directly into the curriculum and reinforced through extracurricular events where students take on leadership, planning, and visionary roles.

Professor Deborah Midkiff, chair of the Hospitality and Culinary Management Department, prepares students for leadership roles in Florida’s growing hospitality industry.

A Booming Job Market

The employment picture for hospitality graduates is encouraging. According to Professor Midkiff, average hotel wages have increased 26% since the pandemic. “I’ve seen more of our students over the past three or four years being in positions where they can get promoted into better positions faster,” she said. “Instead of waiting for those opportunities 10 or 15 years, I’m seeing a lot of our really sharp students move into leadership roles within one or two years.”

By 2033, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that one in eight new jobs will be tied to hospitality or leisure.

The Technology Factor

Technology is reshaping the industry, but not replacing workers – it’s changing what workers do. From robotic vacuums for housekeeping to AI helping managers with paperwork and predictive analytics, technology is removing some of the physical burden and making professionals more productive.

“AI is not going to take over our jobs, but people that understand how to use it are going to be the ones that get hired for the position,” Professor Midkiff emphasized. The industry will see less blue-collar work and more white-collar, IT-focused, better-paying careers.

Beyond Stereotypes

Hospitality and culinary careers extend far beyond front desk clerks and line cooks. The industry needs IT professionals, finance and accounting experts, scheduling systems specialists, and as virtual reality becomes more prevalent, even more white-collar positions.

Students notice evolving trends too. Emily observes that while some guests want the convenience of mobile check-ins and online payments, others still crave face-to-face personal connections. “There’s still that need for face-to-face personal connection,” she noted.

Megan sees changing tastes in food: “Everyone loves that bright color, the bright flavor… They want things that are simple and just have this nice bright flavor, not so sweet.”

Advice for Future Students

Both students had encouraging words for anyone considering the field.

Emily emphasized the versatility: “There’s just so many options in it. You’re not going to be narrowing yourself into anything too specific… It just gives you a really good baseline education.”

Megan’s advice? “Work a summer job and see if you like it. Then take the leap and apply for a program. Even if you don’t end up using the skills you’ve learned and going into a full-time career in whatever path you choose, it’s still skills that you will take with you for the rest of your life.”

The holiday season is upon us – a time when the hospitality industry shines brightest. Behind every perfectly executed meal and seamlessly managed event are trained professionals like Megan and Emily, who’ve turned their passion into careers at The River.

October 27, 2025
RiverBlog: When Cold Cases Meet Fresh Eyes: Indian River State College Students Solve Real Crimes

The only program of its kind in the country teaches students to think like detectives—and close cases that have stumped law enforcement for years

By: Kathleen Walter

When Autum Clay sits down to work on a case, she’s not analyzing a textbook scenario or watching a crime documentary. She’s poring over actual evidence from an unsolved investigation—crime scene photos, witness statements, decades-old leads that went nowhere. It’s painstaking work that can mean spending weeks stuck on a single detail, then months chasing down what comes next.

Digging into the details. Indian River State College cold case investigation students collaborate on unsolved mysteries, applying real forensic techniques to cases that need a fresh perspective.

You could be stuck on a simple fact for weeks, figure that out, and before you know it, you’re chasing another lead for a month,” Clay explained.

Clay is a student in the Institute for Cold Case Investigations at Indian River State College, the only program of its kind in the country. Founded in 2018 by Dr. Kimberlie Massnick, a forensic criminologist, the Institute gives students something most criminal justice programs can’t: real-world investigative experience working on actual unsolved cases with local sheriff’s offices.

When the trail goes cold, these students warm it back up. The cold case investigation course brings together analytical minds to reexamine unsolved cases using modern forensic methods and collaborative problem-solving.

And it’s working. To date, the Institute has solved, closed, or resolved five cases. Students have helped bring closure to grieving families, identified suspects, and contributed evidence that’s been presented to state attorneys. One case even caught the attention of Kelly Siegler, prosecutor and host of Oxygen’s Cold Justice, who worked alongside the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, reviewing the suggestions and work done by students alongside the agency. Ms. Siegler then worked directly with the Sheriff’s Office to recommend and follow up on the case and pitch it to the State Attorney’s Office. (The Cold Justice episode aired on Oxygen on October 11, 2025).

A Program Born from a Simple Question

Dr. Massnick didn’t set out to revolutionize criminal justice education. She simply asked herself: what if students could do more than read about investigations—what if they could actually conduct them?

Dr. Kimberlie Massnick leads the Institute for Cold Case Investigation at Indian River State College

In an exclusive interview on IRSC Public Media’s RiverTalk, Dr. Massnick explained how the idea took shape. After speaking at a national conference about cold cases, she realized there was genuine public interest in the topic. She also noticed something troubling: when she asked audiences if they could name a victim of Ted Bundy, no one could. Everyone knew the killer. No one remembered the victims.

“At that moment, my entire life shifted,” she said. “This isn’t about the suspect, the person who did this. I’m going to change the narrative. We are going to talk about who is really important and who needs to be remembered.”

Massnick approached local sheriff’s offices with a bold pitch: let college students review cold case files. Surprisingly, one sheriff jumped at the opportunity. The college awarded her a grant, and the Institute was born.

The very first case they tackled? Solved in a single semester.

Learning from the Old School

The Institute operates as part of Indian River State College’s research methods course—a natural fit, since cold cases are essentially intensive case studies. Students apply everything they’ve learned across their criminal justice curriculum: critical thinking, criminological theory, investigative techniques, ethics, and evidence analysis.

Students in the Institute for Cold Case Investigation at Indian River State College work with Indian River County Sheriff’s Office detectives

But what makes the program truly unique is the mentorship component and the actual sharing of the complete case file. Veteran detectives with 30 or 40 years of experience work directly with students, sharing insights that can’t be found in any textbook. These detectives are often the detectives originally assigned to the case or detectives currently with the agency.

Hannah MacDonald, a former student who appeared on RiverTalk alongside Dr. Massnick, recalled discussing with detectives how the work follows you home—how you start dreaming about cases, how the details infiltrate your subconscious. “You work so much with this stuff and you start thinking about it in your off time,” she said. The detectives taught her how to cope, how to decompress, and how not to become consumed by the darkness.

Chandler Sillaway, another Institute alum, remembers the moment a detective handed him a sticky note with two words written on it: probable cause. “I’m thinking, oh, this is serious,” Sillaway said. “Probable cause is what you need for an arrest. And that’s exactly what we were reaching for.”

Technology Meets Experience

Part of the program’s success comes from a simple fact: today’s students grew up with technology in their hands. What might have taken detectives days or weeks to uncover 20 or 30 years ago—tracking down public records, cross-referencing voter registrations, finding addresses—students can now do in minutes.

Future investigators at work. Students in the cold case investigation course analyze evidence and explore new angles on unsolved mysteries.

“These guys were born with computers in their hands,” Dr. Massnick said. “They can do things and think of things and go down rabbit holes that would have taken law enforcement a lot longer to do.”

But technology alone isn’t the answer. Dr. Massnick emphasizes that students must learn to “follow the evidence,” not their theories. As Sillaway put it: “It’s easy to go down a rabbit hole in your own theories. When you have detectives looking over your shoulder and you have Dr. Massnick looking over your shoulder as well, even though it’s hard to follow the evidence, you need to.”

The program also teaches students that investigations require collaboration. Some students discover they’re better suited for fieldwork; others thrive behind a computer organizing data and tracking leads. Both skill sets are essential.

Filling a Critical Gap

Louis Caprino, former FBI agent and now Dean of Public Service Education at Indian River State College, says Dr. Massnick’s work goes far beyond the classroom. She’s preparing students to succeed in law enforcement careers at every level—and at a critical moment.

Across the country, police departments are hemorrhaging experienced detectives. Since COVID-19, many veteran investigators have retired early, leaving departments struggling to fill the gap. The Institute helps address this crisis by producing graduates who can confidently answer the question every employer asks: Do you have experience?

Institute graduates have been hired by federal agencies like the Office of Special Investigations and the Department of State. Others have joined local law enforcement or started their own investigative businesses. Some, like Hannah MacDonald, are pursuing paralegal work specializing in criminal law. Chandler Sillaway is completing his master’s degree and pursuing federal investigations.

“They’re much more likely to be employed quicker,” Dr. Massnick said, “simply because they are able to answer that question, do you have any experience? And now they can say, not only do they have experience in investigation, but they can turn around and say, we’ve learned how to use this piece of equipment. We’ve learned how to bring you into the 21st century.”

More Than Just Solving Cases

For current students like Arianna Crespo and Cassidy Koch, the Institute has been transformative. Crespo says the program teaches you that “it could be anyone around you”—meaning detectives must always be willing to consider every possibility, no matter how uncomfortable.

Koch, inspired by crime shows and her mother’s interest in investigations, says she’s caught “the bug” for detective work and continues to stay involved even after completing the class.

But Dr. Massnick is clear: this work isn’t just about closing cases or launching careers. It’s about something deeper.

“When you see those crime scene photos, those are real people,” Chandler Sillaway said. “You have a person’s life in your hands and you’re trying to get justice for them.”

The Institute currently has two more cases moving forward. One has been presented to the state attorney’s office. Another involves a suspect who’s been identified but is out of state, making an arrest logistically complicated. And then there’s the case that could rewrite everything: five unsolved cases that appear to be connected to the same suspect.

If students successfully tie those cases together, they’ll be the only students in the country to have caught a serial killer.

“People don’t think it can happen in your backyard,” Dr. Massnick said.

At Indian River State College, students aren’t just learning about criminal justice. They’re practicing it. They’re bringing closure to families who’ve waited years—sometimes decades—for answers. They’re honoring victims whose names have been forgotten. And they’re proving that with the right training, mentorship, and determination, fresh eyes can solve even the coldest cases.

Learn more about the Institute for Cold Case Investigations and Indian River State College’s Criminal Justice programs at irsc.edu.

For media inquiries, email the Indian River State College Office of Public Information: pio@irsc.edu.

October 17, 2025
Career Expo Connects Treasure Coast Job Seekers with over 50 Employers
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (October 1, 2025) — The wait is over. Today, Indian River State College (“The River”) will host its Fall 2025 Career Expo, a marquee recruiting event where students, alumni, and community members can connect directly with employers ready to hire for full-time, part-time and internship positions.

The Expo will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Eastman Advanced Workforce Training Complex (Building O) on the Massey Campus in Fort Pierce.

More than 50 organizations representing industries from healthcare, aerospace, manufacturing, technology, finance, and local government will participate, offering attendees the chance to expand their networks and explore career pathways.

Featured employers include:
- Enterprise Mobility
- Health First
- Martin County School District
- St. Lucie County Fire District
- Treasure Coast Hospice
- Pursuit Aerospace
- Fifth Third Bank
“This is one of the most direct opportunities for students, alumni, and job seekers in the community to meet face-to-face with employers who are actively recruiting Indian River State College talent,” said Dr. Calvin Williams, associate vice president of advising and career services. “Whether someone is seeking a first job, a career change or an internship, the Expo is designed to connect them with the right opportunities.”

The Career Expo is the culmination of a month-long slate of professional development programming, including resume reviews with employers, a Career Fashion Show, and a Career Closet initiative, which provides free professional attire to students, alumni and community members. “If you look good and feel confident, you’ll interview better,” Williams added. “The Career Closet and Expo work hand in hand to help attendees prepare and present themselves to employers.”

For more information, contact the Indian River State College Career Services at careerservices@irsc.edu or call 772-462-7470.

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October 1, 2025
From Training to the Front Lines: Indian River State College Graduates Two New Classes of Public Safety Professionals

Corrections Academy Class #178 graduates celebrate their completion of the rigorous 420-hour Basic Recruit Training Program, marking the beginning of their careers as correctional officers in state and federal facilities.

FORT PIERCE, Fla., (Sept. 19, 2025) – Indian River State College’s Criminal Justice Institute successfully graduated two distinguished classes from its Public Service Academy: Law Enforcement Academy Class #181 and Corrections Academy Class #178. These ceremonies celebrated the completion of intensive training programs that prepared graduates for critical roles in Florida’s criminal justice system.

Corrections Academy Class #178 Graduation

Corrections Academy Class #178 celebrated its achievement on Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, at Indian River State College. The ceremony recognized graduates who completed one of the most comprehensive corrections training programs in the state.

Each graduate successfully completed the Basic Recruit Training Program (Corrections), which included over 420 hours of classroom instruction and hands-on practical exercises. This comprehensive training provided them with the skills needed to effectively work with inmates while exercising professionalism. Their lessons on how to effectively communicate, interact with, and respond to a range of populations will help ensure their safety and the safety of others.

The curriculum included inmate supervision and custody procedures, use of force protocols and legal standards, defensive tactics and officer safety, communication and de-escalation skills, emergency response procedures, report writing and documentation, ethics and professional standards, legal standards governing corrections, facility security protocols, and contraband detection and searches.

“I am incredibly proud of the individuals who graduated, as they demonstrated the discipline, responsibility, and professionalism required to serve in one of the most demanding roles in the criminal justice system,” noted Indian River State College President Timothy E. Moore. “This represented a critical step in building a strong and capable corrections workforce that will serve our communities with dedication and integrity.”

Corrections Academy Class #178 graduates are Elizabeth Alvarez, Quinn Bostic, Frankz Davila, Travis Garrison, Alicia Hilario, Indiony Jean-Baptiste, Vanessa Johnson, Hannah Newsome, Marc Rediker, Alani Rodriguez, Sherlyn Salgado, Monique Samuels, Vincent Saputo, Isabella Saucedo, Matthew Sellers, Jacob Smith, Joseline Uribe-Godinez, and Dominic Witherow.

Corrections Academy graduates are now qualified for positions including correctional officers in state and federal facilities, juvenile detention officers, probation and parole officers (with additional certification), court security officers, transportation officers, private corrections facility staff, and rehabilitation program coordinators.

Law Enforcement Academy Class #181 Graduation

Law Enforcement Academy Class #181 graduated Sept. 3, 2025. The ceremony was attended by friends, family, community leaders, and media who gathered to honor these new guardians of public safety.

Law Enforcement Academy Class #181 graduates celebrate their completion of the rigorous 770-hour Florida Basic Recruit Training Program, marking the beginning of their careers in law enforcement and public service.

Graduates successfully completed a demanding 770-hour Florida Basic Recruit Training Program that encompassed comprehensive instruction across multiple critical areas: criminal law and legal procedures, firearms training and marksmanship, defensive tactics and officer safety, emergency vehicle operations, de-escalation techniques and conflict resolution, community policing strategies, mental health awareness and crisis intervention, cultural competency training, report writing and documentation, and physical fitness and conditioning.

LE 181 Graduates are Jax Boris, Matthew Chandool, Cheyenne Dechert, Daniel Deluck, Zachary Dominguez, Julien Eason, Kenya Fils-Aime, Rosemary Gil, Trevor Goodrich, Evan Goforth, Joshua Hengstler, Evan Kicker, Austin Miller, Christyan Murray, Rodolfo Nazco, Aaliyah Rodriguez, Bryan Romero Gonzales, Brendan Sposato, and Leonardo Vargas.

Graduates are now qualified to pursue careers as municipal police officers, county sheriff’s deputies, state law enforcement officers, federal law enforcement agents (with additional training), campus security officers, private security supervisors, and loss prevention specialists.

“This program was both mentally and physically demanding, and our graduates showed extraordinary commitment, discipline, and resilience throughout this process,” said Indian River State College Public Service Academy Dean Lou Caprino. “We were proud to welcome them as guardians of public safety who are prepared to serve with integrity and professionalism.”

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September 19, 2025
Doors Open, Futures Begin: Indian River State College Announces Upcoming Open House Events
Prospective students can explore programs, meet faculty, and discover career pathways at open houses throughout the academic year

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Sept. 12, 2025) — Indian River State College (“The River”) is welcoming prospective students across the Treasure Coast to a series of open house events during the 2025–26 academic year. From nursing to business, public service to science and education, these events showcase the wide horizon of opportunities available at The River year-round.

Upcoming open house events:
- Sep. 16, 2025 – Nursing (Pruitt Campus)
- Oct. 2, 2025 – Business and Workforce
- Oct. 7, 2025 – Public Service
- Oct. 8, 2025 – Math, Science, and Education
- Feb. 9, 2026 – Health Science
- March 2026 – Math, Science, and Education
- April 9, 2026 – Nursing
- April 14, 2026 – Public Service
- April 16, 2026 – Business and Workforce
Prospective students who attend will gain a firsthand look at how Indian River State College programs connect directly to in-demand careers across the Treasure Coast. They will leave with a stronger sense of the skills they will learn, the professions those skills lead to, and how The River provides an affordable and effective route to their goals.

Those who attend an open house see how Indian River State College students benefit from hands-on experience in state-of-the-art labs, direct connections to industry leaders, and opportunities to apply classroom learning in real-world settings. These experiences ensure graduates leave with the confidence, skills, and professional network needed to succeed immediately in their chosen careers.

For details on open house events, visit https://connect.irsc.edu/?category=open-house. For more information about how Indian River State College can help students take the next step toward their future, visit www.irsc.edu for locations and program offerings.

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September 16, 2025
Youth Robotics Program Offered by Indian River State College
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (September 9, 2025) — Indian River State College (“The River”) is excited to announce the launch of its comprehensive Robotics Program designed for young learners ages 10-14. The program, at the College’s Eastman Advanced Workforce Training Complex, offers students hands-on experience building and programming robots using industry-standard VEX IQ kits, providing an engaging introduction to STEM education.

Young engineers get hands-on experience building and programming robots at The River’s Youth Robotics Program and Camps

Located at 3209 Virginia Avenue in Fort Pierce, the program features three skill levels to accommodate students at different stages of their robotics journey:

Program Structure:
- Beginner ($250) – Our beginner sessions are the perfect introduction to robotics. Students will learn the basics of building and programming robots while exploring how mechanical and coding systems work together. No prior experience is needed—just curiosity and creativity! Two sessions available: October 4, 5, 11 & 12, and October 18, 19, 25 & 26
- Intermediate ($150) – Our intermediate sessions are designed for students who already have a foundation in robotics. Students will take their skills to the next level with more complex robot builds, advanced programming concepts, and problem-solving challenges that encourage teamwork and creativity. Two sessions available: November 8 & 9, and November 22 & 23
- Advanced ($150) – Our advanced session is for students ready to take their robotics skills to the highest level. In this session, students will tackle complex engineering builds, explore advanced coding strategies, and work through real-world style robotics challenges that strengthen problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation. Session on December 6 & 7
Classes run Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., allowing students to learn at their own pace while exploring fundamental STEM concepts in an interactive, fun environment.

The VEX IQ platform is specifically designed for younger students, featuring snap-together pieces that make robot construction accessible while still teaching real engineering principles. Students will learn to program their robots to complete various challenges and tasks, fostering both creativity and logical thinking.

Register: Space is limited. Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit: Advanced Manufacturing – Indian River State College

Contact: Alex Wrobel, awrobel@irsc.edu or (772) 462-7042
September 9, 2025
Future Nurses to Gain Real-World Experience through Indian River State College and HCA Florida Partnership Expansion
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Sept. 4, 2025) – Indian River State College School of Nursing has expanded its groundbreaking partnership with HCA Florida Healthcare hospitals to include HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital and HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital to create Dedicated Education Hospitals (DEH), a transformative collaboration on the Treasure Coast. This expansion strengthens Indian River State College’s partnership with HCA Florida Healthcare hospitals, providing enhanced student training, a stronger nursing workforce, and better care for the community.

The DEH model transforms hospital units into structured learning environments where students and professional nurses work side by side. Unlike traditional clinical rotations, the program integrates nursing students directly into hospital care teams, pairing them with nurse preceptors and faculty mentors for real-time, hands-on training.

“Our students are integrated into real-world hospital environments, where they learn directly from experienced nurses,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College president. “This robust collaborative partnership ensures students receive invaluable training while helping to cultivate a highly skilled workforce that benefits our local community.”

Dr. Patricia Gagliano of Indian River State College (left) with HCA Florida Healthcare leaders at the launch of the Dedicated Education Hospital partnership at St. Lucie Hospital.

“This is more than a clinical site, it’s a living classroom where patient care and nursing education are seamlessly integrated,” said Dr. Patricia Gagliano, Dean of Nursing at Indian River State College. “Our students gain the confidence and judgment needed for practice, while hospitals strengthen their workforce, and our community benefits from higher quality of care.”

The partnership expansion will provide Indian River State College nursing students with additional resources, closer mentorship, and a curriculum aligned with hospital practice.

Benefits include:
- For students: stronger clinical competence, faster professional role transition, and improved NCLEX readiness.
- For hospitals: a robust workforce pipeline, higher nurse retention, and innovation in care delivery.
- For the Treasure Coast: safer, higher-quality care and a stronger local healthcare system.
Indian River State College nursing students gather with HCA Florida Healthcare nurses and preceptors to celebrate the launch of the Dedicated Education Hospital partnership.

“It’s a tremendous benefit for our patients and colleagues. These student nurses understand our mission — above all else, we’re committed to the care and improvement of human life — and they will find it interwoven through this program. Shared values and better communication only elevate our teams and the care they provide,” said Tracee Hendershott, Chief Nursing Officer at HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital.

The initiative was established with a DEH at HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital last year. A joint event welcoming Indian River State College students, faculty, and leaders alongside administrators, nurse managers, and preceptors from HCA Healthcare’s East Florida Division was held to launch the partnership expansion.

To learn more about the Indian River State College School of Nursing, visit irsc.edu/program/nursing/ or call (772) 462-7550.

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About Indian River State College: Indian River State College, serving Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offers high-quality, affordable education to 23,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides over 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas. To learn more, visit irsc.edu.

About HCA Florida Healthcare: HCA Florida Healthcare, a part of HCA Healthcare, is a family of more than 650 affiliated sites of care, including hospitals, physician practices, freestanding emergency rooms and urgent care centers. As one of the state’s leading healthcare networks, HCA Florida Healthcare’s 11,100 experienced doctors and more than 84,000 colleagues work together to deliver equitable, evidence-based collaborative care through more than 12 million patient encounters annually. HCA Florida Healthcare is committed to improving more lives in more ways and giving back to the communities it serves. In 2024, the network provided more than $1 billion in uncompensated care and contributed more than $3.7 million to community organizations across the state. In addition, HCA Florida Healthcare offers patients access to highly trained specialists, including the state’s most comprehensive cardiovascular network. A strong advocate for the next generation of healthcare professionals, HCA Florida Healthcare is a leader in training future healthcare professionals, offering 151 Graduate Medical Education (GME) programs at 27 different hospitals with more than 2,400 residents. For more information, please visit HCAFloridaHealthcare.com.
September 4, 2025
Dental Hygiene Students Achieve 100% Certification Pass Rate

Five-Year Track Record of Exceeding State and National Benchmarks

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Aug. 7, 2025) – Indian River State College’s 2025 Dental Hygiene graduating class achieved a 100% certification pass rate, continuing the program’s strong track record of student success. Over the past five years, the college’s Dental Hygiene program has maintained strong outcomes with a 98% graduation rate, 98% certification pass rate, and 96% employment rate, all above state and national averages for dental hygiene programs.

A dental hygiene student practices clinical skills during a hands-on training session with a patient under faculty supervision.

“This 100% pass rate reflects what we see every day – students who come in eager to learn and leave as confident professionals ready to make a difference in their patients’ lives,” said Anna Hubbard, Dean of Health Sciences at Indian River State College. “With our faculty and facilities, they get hands-on experience with the latest technology while learning from instructors who are invested in their success.”

The program’s focus on quality education extends beyond the classroom throughthe college’s Dental Clinic, where students gain practical experience while providing preventive dental services, including cleanings, to patients of all ages. These services are offered at reduced prices under the supervision of experienced, licensed faculty.

A young patient beams with excitement during a visit, supported by dental hygiene students gaining real-world experience in patient care.

“The clinic serves as a bridge between our students’ education and the community’s oral health needs,” said Anna DaCosta, Dental Hygiene Program Director. “Patients receive quality preventative care at affordable rates while our students apply their learning in real-world settings that benefit everyone involved.”

The dental hygiene field continues to show strong demand on the Treasure Coast, offering graduates career opportunities in private practices, public health settings, and educational institutions.

For more information about Indian River State College’s Dental Hygiene program, visit irsc.edu/program/dental-hygiene/. To schedule an appointment at the Indian River State College Dental Clinic for preventative services, call 772-462-7524.

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About Indian River State College: Indian River State College, serving Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offers high-quality, affordable education to 23,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides over 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas. To learn more, visit irsc.edu.

August 7, 2025
Indian River State College’s Project STAGE Program Leads State in Student Employment Success

Program achieves 70% employment rate for students with unique abilities

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Aug. 5, 2025) – Indian River State College’s Project STAGE program continues to prepare students with unique abilities for meaningful careers, as highlighted by a recent Employer Recognition Award presented to local business owner J. Evans of three UPS Stores in Vero Beach and Sebastian.

The UPS Store owner, J. Evans (left), displays his award for supporting students with unique abilities alongside his Project STAGE employee.

Evans was recognized following his nomination by Indian River State College’s Project STAGE team for hiring a program student as a kiosk assistant in January 2025, demonstrating the employer partnerships that support the program’s success.

The College’s Project STAGE program leads in Florida with enrollment of up to 36 students for the 2025-26 academic year, the highest among 35 similar college, university, and technical school programs. The program serves students from Martin, Indian River, and St. Lucie counties across Indian River State College’s Massey and Mueller campuses and is sponsored by the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities.

“Our success is built on intentional relationship-building with local employers who share our vision of inclusive workplaces,” said JoAnn Pagano, Project STAGE Program Manager. “When employers open their hearts and minds to nurture the growth and development of our students, everyone benefits.”

The program combines classroom learning through the Specialized Career Training Course with paid and unpaid internships. Students develop job skills, create professional portfolios, and practice interviews while working closely with local employers.

Currently, 70% of Project STAGE students achieve gainful employment. The program provides ongoing support for up to five years post-graduation to ensure long-term employment stability for its students. Staff actively network with employers and provide onsite coaching during interviews and onboarding.

Indian River State College’s Project STAGE program demonstrates how strategic partnerships create meaningful opportunities for students with unique abilities while meeting community workforce needs.

To learn more about Project STAGE, visit irsc.edu/programs/special-programs/project-stage/,call (772) 462-4257, or email Kirsten Jerome at kjerome@irsc.edu.

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About Project STAGE: Project STAGE is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students with unique abilities for successful careers through specialized training, internship opportunities, and ongoing support services. The program serves students from Martin, Indian River, and St. Lucie counties and maintains partnerships with local employers throughout the region.

About Indian River State College: Indian River State College, serving Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offers high-quality, affordable education to 23,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides 175 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas. To learn more, visit irsc.edu.

Media Contacts:
Kathleen Walter – Public Information Officer/Public Relations Manager
Rodrigo Berlanga Rodriguez – Public Relations Coordinator
PIO@irsc.edu

August 5, 2025