The finalists represent the Treasure Coast’s best in entrepreneurship, innovation and leadership.

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (October 19, 2026) — The Indian River State College Foundation has announced the four finalists for the 2026 Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneur of the Year Award, one of the Treasure Coast’s most prestigious recognitions of entrepreneurial excellence.

The award honors business leaders whose vision, leadership, innovation and success have made a lasting impact on the region.

The 2026 finalists are:

• Corey Clive, CEO of Venergy Group, a veteran entrepreneur recognized for his leadership in energy efficiency, sustainable solutions and creating opportunities for fellow veterans.
• David Carson, CEO of CareGlider, an innovator and product development leader whose work includes more than 100 products and 40 patents across multiple industries, including healthcare and aerospace.
• Robert Gluckman, CEO of Treasure Coast Urgent Care, Treasure Coast Psychiatry, Employee Wellness and Live Hearty, recognized for expanding access to healthcare, mental health and wellness services throughout the Treasure Coast.
• William David Snyder, CEO of Evergreen Private Care, a veteran-owned healthcare leader who has grown his organization to serve communities across more than 20 Florida counties.

“This year’s finalists represent the very best of entrepreneurship on the Treasure Coast,” said Dr. Herbert Ricardo, business professor at Indian River State College and judge for the Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneur of the Year Award. “Their innovation, determination, and commitment to excellence have distinguished them in a highly competitive selection process. As a professor of business, I am particularly impressed by their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to building successful, sustainable businesses. Their achievements reflect not only individual business success but also a genuine commitment to strengthening our local economy and the communities they serve.”

For more than 25 years, the award has recognized business leaders behind some of the Treasure Coast’s most influential companies. The 2026 finalists were chosen for their achievements and contributions to the region.

“Entrepreneurship is a powerful driver of economic opportunity and community prosperity,” said Annabel Robertson, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Indian River State College and Executive Director of the Indian River State College Foundation. “This year’s four finalists represent the innovation, determination, and leadership that make the Treasure Coast such a dynamic place to build a business. Through the Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneurship Program, Indian River State College is proud to celebrate their achievements, inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs, and recognize the extraordinary contributions of local business leaders to our regional economy.”

The winner will be announced during a ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 5 at 6 p.m. at the Eastman Advanced Workforce Training Center on the Massey Campus in Fort Pierce.

Proceeds from the event will support Indian River State College Foundation scholarships and student success initiatives. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit giving.irsc.edu/event/entrepreneur-of-the-year.

Event Details

When: Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026, 6 p.m.

Where: Eastman Advanced Workforce Training Complex, Indian River State College – Massey Campus, 3209 Virginia Ave., Fort Pierce

Contact: Indian River State College Foundation, 772-462-4786 or foundation@irsc.edu.

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.

Tickets for the dazzling shows are only $7.

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (October 19, 2026) — The Hallstrom Planetarium at Indian River State College has announced the lineup for the 2026-2027 Starlight Series, which explores Mars, the Star of Bethlehem and some of astronomy’s biggest questions.

The lineup includes From Stars to Starfish (Oct. 16-17), Star of Wonder (Dec. 4-5 and Dec. 11-12), Astronomy Day and STEAM Talk (Jan. 16), Red Planet Rising (Jan. 29-March 6) and Space Songs (April 2-17). Guests can also enjoy Kid Space programs and laser light shows throughout the year.

“We have a lot of great planetarium shows lined up for this year and next, and in all of our programs we want to make sure that folks can learn how to find many of the stars and constellations that are visible in the current evening sky,” said Jon U. Bell, director of the Hallstrom Planetarium.

“Great constellations such as Pegasus, Cassiopeia and Andromeda are on display in the autumn; Orion and Taurus the Bull, the Greater and Lesser Dogs and the Gemini Twins dominate the winter sky; while the Great Bear (part of which is the familiar Big Dipper) and Leo the Lion rule the springtime.”

The Hallstrom Planetarium has been renovated with new seating, carpeting and lighting. Guests can also expect a larger gift shop with telescopes, books, playing cards and ice cream.

The Hallstrom Planetarium is the Treasure Coast’s premier destination for astronomy and science education. It offers seasonal shows, family programs and special events throughout the year.

Tickets are $7 and available at the Indian River State College Box Office. For more information, visit irsc.edu/hallstrom-planetarium or call 772-462-4750.

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.

The theater is emerging as a vibrant cultural destination on the Treasure Coast.

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (October 9, 2026) — The McAlpin Theater at Indian River State College has announced the lineup for the 2026-2027 season, bringing comedy shows, concerts and more to the Treasure Coast.

The Live and Local season features a variety of live performances, including Dad Jokes on Nov. 7, A Salute to Veterans on Nov. 13-14, Sing In the Holidays on Dec. 11-12, a concert by Tabitha Meeks on Jan. 30, Ladies Night Out on Feb. 6, Love Is in the Air on Feb. 19-20 and a concert by Sons of Mystro on Feb. 27.

“We’re trying some new things, like our Laugh Out Local standup comedy series, featuring Casey N Spaz Comedy, as well as bringing back some of your all-time favorites, such as symphonic concerts with Port St. Lucie Community Band,” said theater manager Althea Wilson. “We’d love to become the Treasure Coast’s destination for live entertainment by local artists.”

The McAlpin Theater at Indian River State College is emerging as a vibrant cultural destination on the Treasure Coast. The theater hosts a variety of live performances, educational programs and community events throughout the year.

Tickets for the 2026-2027 season are on sale now at irsc.edu/community/mcalpin-theater.

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.

Dr. Robert Gonzalez has decades of experience in law enforcement, higher education and public safety.

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (September 30, 2026) — Indian River State College has named Dr. Robert Gonzalez as associate dean of Public Service Education.

Gonzalez led some of the nation’s largest public safety agencies and taught at St. John’s University. 

“This opportunity was a culmination of my life’s work in public safety, education and training,” he said. “Over the past 30 years, I held positions as a police officer and as an academic — now I get to combine those experiences into one role at Indian River State College.”

Gonzalez most recently served as deputy commissioner of training and development at the New York City Department of Correction. He also held leadership positions at the New York State Attorney General’s Office and the New York City Police Department.

Gonzalez worked an assistant professor at St. John’s University, where he taught homeland security, global terrorism, public administration and police leadership.

He earned a doctorate in educational leadership from St. John’s University, as well as graduate and undergraduate degrees from the New York Institute of Technology.

Gonzalez will oversee academic programs and training courses that prepare students for careers in criminal justice, fire science, emergency medical services and public service leadership. His first day was Sept. 21.

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.

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (July 27, 2026) — Indian River State College has announced proposed updates to select fees following a comprehensive review of instructional and operational costs associated with academic programs and student services.

The proposed fee changes will be considered by the Indian River State College District Board of Trustees during its regularly scheduled meeting on August 25, 2026. The review is part of the College’s ongoing commitment to ensuring fees remain aligned with program requirements, instructional resources, and student learning outcomes while complying with state guidelines governing college fees.

Florida Statute 1009.23(12)(a) grants authority to Florida College System institutional boards of trustees to establish fees within a range allowed by state statute. These fees “shall not exceed the cost of services provided and shall only be charged to persons receiving the service.”

The proposed fees listed below are a result of a thorough review of the costs of every laboratory and course and reflect the costs of consumables, as well as pass-through fees for testing and insurance. All laboratory and course fees are used to purchase items specifically related to that course’s student learning outcomes and course objectives.

The following chart highlights proposed per-course fee changes by term:

Effective term:  Spring 2027

The estimated economic impact on all affected persons cannot be determined. Copies of the proposed fees are posted on the College website at irsc.edu.

Indian River State College complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  Individuals with disabilities requiring special accommodations or assistance to join the District Board of Trustees’ monthly meeting should call the President’s Office at 772-462-4763 with such need at least (3) business days in advance.

STUART, Fla. (July 27, 2026) — Clark Advanced Learning Center (CALC), a public charter high school operated by The River, has once again earned an A school grade from the Florida Department of Education for the 2025–2026 school year, marking the school’s 17th consecutive A.

CALC ranked among Florida’s top-performing high schools, earning top-10 scores in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics achievement and learning gains. In addition, CALC achieved a 100% passing rate in Biology, a 94% passing rate on the U.S. History End-of-Course (EOC) assessment, a 100% graduation rate for the Class of 2025, and a 100% acceleration success rate.

“I am incredibly proud of our students, faculty, and staff for earning our 17th consecutive A grade,” said Dr. Leslie Judd, principal of Clark Advanced Learning Center. “These results reflect the hard work, dedication, and commitment our team brings to our students every day. Their success is a direct result of a culture that inspires students to achieve their very best.”

Clark Advanced Learning Center is a nationally recognized public charter high school serving academically motivated students through a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for college and beyond.

For more information about Clark Advanced Learning Center, visit clarkadvancedlearningcenter.org.

Students named International Champions as The River secures multiple medals, scholarship, and widespread Excellence Awards

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (June 30, 2026) — Indian River State College proudly announces that its HOSA – Future Health Professionals chapter achieved exceptional international recognition at the HOSA Global–International Leadership Conference, held June 16 – 21, 2026, at the Indiana Convention Center. Competing under the theme “Champions of Change” during HOSA’s 50th anniversary year, students from The River rose to the global stage as International Champions, earning a Silver Medal, Bronze Medal, a competitive events plaque, a $500 scholarship, an Excellence Pin, and 15 Excellence Award certificates.

The conference brought together more than 15,000 future health professionals from all 50 states and international HOSA chapters, including participants from American Samoa, Canada, China, India, Korea, Taiwan, Turkey, Vietnam, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. Among more than 13,500 competitors, students from the College demonstrated excellence across healthcare-focused competitive events, academic assessments, and leadership development activities.

“This achievement reflects the dedication, discipline, and passion our students bring to their future healthcare careers,” said College HOSA leadership. “To be honored on the international stage during such a milestone year for HOSA highlights the strength of our program and the commitment of our students to becoming true champions of change in healthcare.”

Advisor Earns International Recognition

Adding to the College’s success, HOSA Advisor Emlyn Anderson received the Award of Merit – Outstanding HOSA Advisor, an international honor recognizing excellence in leadership and student mentorship. The award was presented during the Recognition Session Ceremony at Lucas Oil Stadium, where more than 15,000 attendees gathered for one of the conference’s largest celebrations.

Anderson also served for the third consecutive year as Judge Manager for the EMT, CERT, and Life Skills competitions—an appointment made by the state advisor—further demonstrating leadership and expertise at the international level.

Student Achievement Highlights

Students from Indian River State College showcased exceptional performance across multiple competitive and academic events:

• Petricia Lopilato (Jensen Beach, FL; BS Biology)
  • Silver Medal, Plaque and $500 Scholarship – Biotechnology (Bio-Rad Technologies)
  • Excellence Awards: Health Career Issues Exam, HOSA History, Anatomy & Physiology, Biochemistry, Genetics
• Bryn Calderon duPlooy (Palm City, FL; Dual-Enrolled CALC)
  • Bronze Medal – Home Health Aide
  • Excellence Awards: HOSA Happenings, Biology and Environmental Health (National Geographic Learning)
• Katie Perez (Indiantown, FL, AS Biology – Preprofessional)
  • Excellence Awards: Healthcare Issues Exam, HOSA History, General Chemistry, Human Heredity (National Geographic Learning)
  • Appointed Voting Delegate to the HOSA International Executive Council by the Florida HOSA State Advisor
  • Earned an Excellence Pin and Award Certificate

In total, students from the College earned 15 Excellence Award certificates, underscoring broad academic achievement and mastery across healthcare disciplines.

Immersive Global Learning Experience

The 2026 conference featured 700 industry partners and judges, 175 exhibitors, and 170 educational seminars and workshops led by healthcare professionals. Due to record-breaking attendance, major events—including the Opening Ceremony, Recognition Session, and Grand Awards Ceremony—were held at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Participants engaged in hands-on clinical skills competitions conducted at healthcare and educational facilities throughout Indianapolis. Events included biotechnology activities at Indiana University Health pathology laboratories, clinical training in nursing programs, veterinary science competitions at the Indianapolis Zoo, and emergency response simulations at specialized training centers—providing real-world experiences that mirror professional healthcare environments.

Advancing the Next Generation of Healthcare Professionals

The continued success of Indian River State College’s HOSA chapter reflects the College’s commitment to academic excellence, experiential learning, and leadership development in the health sciences.

“Through opportunities like HOSA, students at The River are gaining the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead in tomorrow’s healthcare workforce,” the chapter shared. “These achievements represent not only individual excellence, but also a collective commitment to service, innovation, and lifelong learning.”

About Indian River State College HOSA

The HOSA chapter at Indian River State College prepares aspiring healthcare professionals to become leaders in the global health community. Through competitive events, community service, and professional development, students gain hands-on experience and build the competencies needed to succeed in high-demand healthcare careers.

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (June 29, 2026) — Indian River State College proudly announces the permanent installation of its award-winning student-fabricated welding sculpture on the Fort Pierce campus, marking a powerful tribute to craftsmanship, service, and the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Created by Welding Technology students at the College, the monumental stainless steel sculpture—honoring the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier—was originally designed as part of the Florida Department of Education’s statewide Welding Fabrication Challenge, commemorating America’s Semi-quincentennial. Following statewide recognition for its craftsmanship and symbolic design, the sculpture now stands as a lasting campus landmark and a testament to the power of career and technical education.

A Landmark Installation Rooted in Purpose

The sculpture is centrally installed between the College’s main administrative buildings and the Koblegard Student Union (KSU), where it will serve as a daily reminder of service, sacrifice, and the enduring values that define the nation.

Standing more than 12 feet tall and weighing approximately 1,000 pounds, the piece features a detailed representation of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. A six-foot sentinel figure—crafted from repurposed tools, gears, and industrial materials—stands in solemn tribute beneath twin stainless steel flags representing 1776 and the present day.

Every element of the sculpture reflects advanced technical skill and artistic vision, demonstrating the hands-on expertise cultivated through Indian River State College’s workforce training programs.

Student Achievement on Display

“This sculpture shows what our students are capable of — the skill, the dedication, and the character,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, president of Indian River State College. “It serves as a fitting tribute to 250 years of American sacrifice and service.”

The project challenged students to apply their skills in new and complex ways, pushing beyond traditional classroom experiences.

“It put them in situations they hadn’t gotten the opportunity to be in yet, but also pushed them pretty much to their limit,” said Welding instructor Walt Posten. “I would say after this, there’s nothing they’d run into in a shop that they didn’t see in this project.”

From concept to completion, students worked collaboratively to bring the sculpture to life—transforming raw materials into a meaningful artistic and historical statement.

“These students didn’t just learn a trade — they used it to say something meaningful about who we are as a country,” said Troy Shearer, Associate Dean of the School of Applied Technologies. “This project shows exactly what career and technical education looks like at its best. We couldn’t be prouder.”

From State Recognition to Lasting Legacy

The sculpture was first unveiled during the College’s Spring 2026 commencement ceremonies, where it stood as a powerful visual symbol of resilience and service.

Now permanently installed, the piece continues its journey—from a competition entry to an enduring tribute that connects history, craftsmanship, and education.

Through projects like this, Indian River State College remains committed to preparing students for high-demand careers while making meaningful contributions to the community. The installation reflects the College’s mission to combine hands-on learning with purpose-driven work that leaves a lasting impact.

ABOUT THE INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE FOUNDATION

Indian River State College serves Florida’s Treasure Coast and Okeechobee Region, offering high-quality, affordable education through a wide range of academic and workforce training programs. The College is dedicated to student success, economic mobility, and meeting the evolving needs of the communities it serves.


For media inquiries, please contact media@irsc.edu

FORT PIERCE, FL (June 15, 2026) — The clock is ticking for 2026 high school graduates in Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties. Indian River State College (The River) is calling on all eligible students to act now. The Promise Program deadline is July 13, 2026 — and it comes fast.

The Promise Program covers two full years of in-state tuition for eligible 2026 graduates or until an associate degree is complete, whichever comes first. Students can earn an Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, or Associate in Applied Science degree. The program is open to students from public, charter, approved private, and in-district homeschool programs in Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties. Best of all, there are no GPA or income requirements to qualify.

The Process Takes Time — Start Today

Many students don’t realize that there are several important steps after submitting their application at Indian River State College. First, students must submit the 2026-2027 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), as well as required Florida residency documents. Next, they must request for their official high school transcripts to be sent. Finally, they must register for at least 12 credit hours in the Fall 2026 semester.

Each step can take days or weeks to process, so students who wait too long will not finish in time. To allow time for gathering all documents and completing registration, students should start today — or no later than July 1.

To qualify for Fall 2026 funding, students must complete all steps before July 13:

• Apply for the Fall 2026 term at irsc.edu and select “Yes” when prompted for the Promise Program in the application
• Submit the 2026–2027 FAFSA at studentaid.gov and select for results to be sent to Indian River State College (school code: 001493)
• Submit Florida residency documents
• Send official high school transcripts
• Register for a minimum of 12 credit hours in Fall 2026
• Attend New Student Orientation August 13 – 14

Your Future Starts Now

The Promise Program offers more than a tuition-free associate degree — it is a launchpad. Students can earn an associate degree close to home and build a career debt-free. However, none of that is possible without taking action today.

Made Possible by Our Community

Last year, donors helped thousands of local young people pursue their dreams tuition-free. The Indian River State College Foundation makes it all possible. Through donor generosity, the Foundation funds this last-dollar scholarship and removes the single biggest barrier to higher education. Every dollar invested in Promise strengthens families, builds the local workforce, and shapes the future of the Treasure Coast region. To learn more or support the Promise Program, visit giving.irsc.edu.

Get Started

For more information and FAQs, visit irsc.edu/admissions/promise. A recorded information session is available to view online for students and families. For further questions, email promise@irsc.edu or call (772) 462-4772 (toll-free: 1-866-792-4772).

The annual tournament fuels tuition-free degrees for students across a four-county region.

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (June 4, 2026) — The Indian River State College Foundation raised $47,357.66 at the 2026 Promise Cup Golf Tournament. The event took place at the PGA Golf Club at PGA Village’s Ryder Course in Port St. Lucie. Altogether, 112 participants joined the day to support the Indian River State College Promise Program.

The Promise Program provides tuition-free associate degrees to Indian River State College students. It serves eligible high school graduates in Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties. Every dollar raised directly eliminates financial barriers for students in these communities.

A COMMUNITY COMMITTED TO ITS OWN FUTURE

The screenings focused on four key fitness areas for each Special Olympics athlete:

• Flexibility and range of motion
• Strength and muscular endurance
• Balance and coordination
• Aerobic fitness levels

In addition, the screenings gave athletes personalized insight into their own health and performance. Every reading, every assessment, every interaction mattered.

TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS

Several players rose to the top throughout the day. Their performance reflected the competitive spirit and community pride that defines the Promise Cup.

Championship Foursome: Datum’s John Biggs, Kip Byrne, Adrian Voster, Andrew Lynsky
Longest Drive — Andrew Lynsky
Closest to Pin: Steve Branch
Putting Contest Winner: Tim Walters

SPONSORS WHO MADE IT POSSIBLE

The Foundation extends its sincere gratitude to every sponsor. Their investment transformed this tournament into a life-changing opportunity for students across the region.

Title and supporting sponsors include: Blyco Electric; Brooklyn Water Bagel; Coral Shores Behavioral Health; Dyer Chevrolet; Florida Ready Mix; Fort Pierce Utilities Authority; Gilbert Chevrolet; Gilbert Ford; Hi-Tide Boat Lifts; James Moore & Co.; Piper; Proctor Construction; Spiezle; Steinger, Greene & Feiner; The Porch Factory; Treasure Coast Lexus; Treasure Coast Toyota of Stuart; and all additional sponsors.

MORE THAN A ROUND OF GOLF

The Promise Program drives measurable results. Since its inception, Indian River State College reports increases in enrollment and student retention. Furthermore, the program strengthens the regional workforce pipeline. Consequently, it addresses skills gaps in high-demand industries and creates pathways to prosperity for families across all four counties.

ABOUT THE INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE FOUNDATION

The Indian River State College Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. It funds the Promise Program and awards more than 1,600 scholarships annually. Events like the Promise Cup Golf Tournament make higher education accessible to all eligible students.

To learn more or to get involved, visit giving.irsc.edu, call (772) 462-4786, or email foundation@irsc.edu. For Promise Program details, visit promise.irsc.edu.

ABOUT INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE

Indian River State College serves Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties. The College educates 24,000 students each year through traditional and online programs. Indian River State College offers more than 130 pathways leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas. Learn more at irsc.edu.