IRSC Traditions & Symbols
The 60-year history of Indian River State College is steeped in rich tradition. Read on to learn about the meaning and history of these customs, practices and symbols that have connected IRSC Pioneers for decades.
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The MaceWith origins in the Middle Ages, the mace is an ornamental staff that symbolizes the authority of the College’s academic leader. The IRSC Mace, created from native black walnut from northwestern Pennsylvania and adorned with a bronze emblem that replicates the IRSC seal, was commissioned by the District Board of Trustees in 2007. The woodwork was crafted by the late David A. VanCise, Master Instructor, Industrial Technology Department. The Grand Marshal bears the mace before the President as the academic procession enters and retires from the commencement ceremony. |
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Walks of Fame and Walls of FameTake a stroll around the IRSC Main Campus in Fort Pierce and you will come across any number of Walks of Fame that pay tribute to student leaders, retired faculty and staff, Take Stock in Children graduates and others who have had long-lasting impact on the institution. Enter the Koblegard Student Union and find wall displays of IRSC Pioneers and Distinguished Alumni. IRSC is proud of all its rich heritage and those who have contributed to it. |
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The River WayThe River Way is a mindset—a way of life for IRSC employees. It’s how we do what we do. It’s why we go above and beyond and make the extra effort to increase our effectiveness. The River Way is about caring—which results in a quality experience for every single person that we serve, creating an institutional culture of service to promote student success. |
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The Unbeaten StreakThe IRSC Men's Swimming and Diving team holds the longest unbroken U.S. championship winning streak in any sport at the collegiate level. They are NJCAA Swimming and Diving National Champions, with 45 consecutive titles. The women's team holds 37 consecutive titles and 41 wins overall. |
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Cultural Diversity CelebrationIRSC's diverse student body hails from more than 110 countries. Each November, the College celebrates its cultural diversity during International Education Week. Events take place on Main Campus in Fort Pierce and at each IRSC campus. Activities include a parade of nations, cultural food tastings, art, music, games and more. Lectures, such as the annual global economics panel round out the weeklong event. |
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The SkullThe Academic All-Stars Award, affectionately called the "Skull Award," recognizes the importance of academic achievement for athletes. The coveted recogntion is presented at the end of each fall semester to to the athletic team achieiving the highest grade point average (GPA). The award was last presented in December 2019 to the Women's Swimming and Diving Team. The distinction was previously held by the Volleyball Team for a six-year reign that began in 2013. |
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9-11 TributeEach year IRSC faculty, staff and students—joined by members of local law enforcement agencies—honor the first responders and fallen heroes of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Commemorative activities include the morning flag-raising detail, a memorial for those who perished as a result of the attacks and a tower run equaling the distance of ascending the former World Trade Center. |
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Pioneer 5KSince 2018, students, faculty, employees and community members of all ages have turned out—rain or shine— to participate in the IRSC Foundation Pioneer 5K Run/Walk. Albeit a new tradition, experienced and beginning runners join the 5K's generous supporting sponsors to help raise thousands of dollars toward student scholarships. |
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Blue & Gold GameThe annual intra-squad scrimmage—the Blue & Gold volleyball match—is the official kick-off to the new athletic season. Students, faculty and staff cheer on as the honorary coaches—IRSC President and Vice President for Student Affairs—guide their teams to victory. |
