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News Topic: Student Service & Support

Indian River State College Foundation Celebrates 52 High School Graduates and 52 New Scholarship Recipients
A Night to Remember in Fort Pierce
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (May 1, 2026) — The Indian River State College Foundation honored 104 students at its Take Stock in Children Awards Ceremony. This event showed how the Indian River State College Foundation celebrates Take Stock in Children student success.
Beth Gaskin, Leonardo Garcia, and Annabel Robertson
The event took place at the McAlpin Fine Arts Center. It was held on the Indian River State College campus.
The evening celebrated two remarkable groups. First, 52 high school seniors earned their long-awaited scholarships. Second, 52 new ninth graders entered the program and signed their scholarship contracts.
About the Take Stock in Children Program
Take Stock in Children connects low-income, academically motivated students with mentors and college scholarships. Students who join sign a contract with clear expectations.
Each student agrees to maintain good grades and stay out of trouble. They also agree to avoid drugs and alcohol. Students must also meet with a College Success Coach who provides college prep resources. In return, they earn a four-year college tuition scholarship.
The scholarship covers two years tuition at Indian River State College. Students then complete two more years at Indian River State College or another Florida public state college or university.
Additionally, the Indian River State College Foundation serves as the lead agency for four counties. Those counties are Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie. As a result, the Foundation secures local funding, mentors, and resources for all recipients.
Class of 2026: 52 Students Earn Their Scholarships
This year’s graduating class includes students from all four counties. Each graduate met every requirement of the program. Moreover, every one of them will attend college in the fall.
Among the graduates, Leonardo Garcia of Treasure Coast High School served as Outstanding Senior. He addressed the audience and represented the class of 2026.
The complete list of 2026 graduates includes: Jarely Aguillon-Ramirez, Gabriela Aguirre Garcia, Victoria Aguirre-Najera, Veronica Andres Francisco, Cristofer Arcos, Keila Avila, Fils Barber, Michelle Campos, Jennifer Carranza, Peyton Cooper, Moises Deleon-Andres, Andrew Edme, Gisselle Espinosa-Olvera, Alicia Flores, Jason Fuegel, Alejandro Garcia, Daysy Garcia, Leonardo Garcia, Jennifer Garcia-Garcia, Emilio Gomez, Alyza Hernandez, Brenda Hernandez, Gabriel Hernandez, Melanie Hernandez Perez, Juan Herrera, Tonasia Jackson, Angel Jaimes, Leo Luna, Giselle Mandujano-Pena, Azaria Medler, Areana Neil, Shedlensdj Notrecide, Gabrielle Oddo, Vanessa Perez, Mathias Perez Espin, Julieta Ramirez, Aerrlet Ramos, Brylee Raulerson, Juan Rodriguez, Yarisely Rojo, Alicia Salazar-Rendon, Emily Serrano Torrijos, Gabriela Silva, Mariana Soberanis, Isabella Torres, Cristhopher Turner, Felicita Vasquez, Evelyn Villarreal, Isiah Williams, Felix Witkamp, Clarissa Zamora, and Roxana Zapeta-Mejia.
52 New Ninth-Grade Students Join the Program
In addition to the graduates, the Foundation welcomed 52 new scholarship recipients. These students are entering tenth grade this fall.
They now commit to the same standards that guided the class of 2026. Furthermore, each new recipient gains access to a dedicated mentor. That mentor will support them throughout all four years of high school.
The new recipients are: Camila Acosta Toro, Jamar Allston Jr., Madai Almanza, Maya Arismendi, Anthuane Cabrera, Daniela Carrera, Yovany Castaneda, Wendy Chiroy Mazariegos, Baily Citan, Jessica Cite Tamayac, Yesenia Colon, Emanuel Cortes Gutierrez, Julissa Diaz Morales, Gianna Ebanks, Keren Felipe-Aguilar, Diana Ferrer, Noemy Garcia, Jocelyn Gaspar, Vanessa Gil, Jeremy Graham Jr., Ian Gutierrez, Matthew Hicks, Kendyl Jarema, Lauren Lambeth, Lyric Leary, Belinda Lopez, Andre Madrigal, Claudia Maldonado Ordonez, Jazlyn Martinez, Phillicia Miller, Audree Morales, Autumn Morris, Ngoc Uyen Minh Nguyen, Eliam Olivera, Shahin Ouf, Kensley Paulemont, Elizabeth Perez Ortiz, Cristal Pineda Tejeda, Riley Quinones Crowley, Hunter Ramos, Jeremiah Reis, Laylah Roberts, Julieta Rodriguez, Jocelyn Rosales Trejo, Luis Salinas Jr., Giancarlo Sandoval Ochoa, Ireayomide Sangoyomi, Dylann Stewart, Santos Vasquez Jr., Eunice Villarreal-Perez, Kimberly Zamarripa, and Axel Zapeta Chiguil.
Mentors Drive the Program’s Success
Volunteers from across the region serve as mentors for Take Stock in Children students. This year, 46 mentors supported the class of 2026.
Notably, four of those mentors are Take Stock in Children graduates themselves. They are Jennifer Lugo-Rodriguez, Lizeth Reyes, Julisa Sanchez, and Steven Toussaint. Their service shows the lasting impact of the program.
Beyond that, mentor Robin Benet of Saint Lucie County spoke at the ceremony. Her remarks reflected the deep bonds that mentors build over four years.
What Program Leaders Said
Elizabeth A. Gaskin, Vice President for Student Success at Indian River State College, delivered the welcome address.
“Tonight is a testament to what young people can do when given a chance,” Gaskin said. “These graduates made a promise as ninth graders and kept it. That takes real character, and Indian River State College is proud to welcome them.”
Karen Aldana, Program Director for Take Stock in Children, guided the ceremony. She introduced both the graduating class and the new recipients.
“Every one of these students chose to hold themselves to a higher standard,” Aldana said. “They delivered on that promise. We are also thrilled to welcome our new ninth graders. Their journey starts tonight.”
Annabel Robertson, Esq., Vice President of Institutional Advancement at the Indian River State College Foundation, offered closing remarks.
“This program works because of generous partners, dedicated mentors, and determined students,” Robertson said. “The Indian River State College Foundation is proud to connect all of those pieces. Tonight, we celebrate what that partnership makes possible.”
Partners Make the Program Possible
The Take Stock in Children program depends on a strong network of partners. Together, these organizations fund scholarships and support program operations.
Scholarship partners include Bank of America, Deerbrook Charitable Trust, and Helios Education Foundation. Additional partners are Hobe Sound Community Chest Inc. and John’s Island Community Service League. Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner and Smith Inc., Sailfish Point Foundation, and The Florida College System Foundation also contribute. Several generous individual donors round out that support.
Program partners include the Indian River State College Foundation and the Florida Prepaid College Foundation. The School District of Indian River County, Martin County School District, Okeechobee County School District, and St. Lucie County Public Schools also participate.
About Take Stock in Children
Take Stock in Children is a statewide nonprofit scholarship and mentoring program. It serves students from low-income families across Florida. The Indian River State College Foundation has administered the program locally for Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie counties since 1996. To date, 1,466 scholarships have been awarded to deserving students.
About the Indian River State College Foundation
The Indian River State College Foundation supports the mission of Indian River State College. It does so through scholarships, programs, and community partnerships. The Foundation connects donors with students who need resources to pursue higher education.
For More Information
For information about the Take Stock in Children program administered by Indian River State College, visit irsc.edu/tsic or contact Karen Aldana at 772-462-7252 or via email at kaldana@irsc.edu.
May 1, 2026
Indian River State College and FAU Team Up to Offer Treasure Coast Students a Bachelor’s Degree Path
FORT PIERCE, FL (April 29, 2026) — Indian River State College (The River) students now have another exciting option to pursue their bachelor’s degree. The River and Florida Atlantic University (FAU) have joined forces through Link2FAU, a program that gives Treasure Coast students a guaranteed path from an Indian River State College associate degree straight to FAU — with scholarship opportunities, university resources, and advising support included from day one.
Complete your associate degree at The River with a 2.0 GPA, and FAU will welcome you as an upper-division student, ready to finish your bachelor’s degree.
“At Indian River State College, we’ve always believed that students should have every possible path to success available to them,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College President. “Link2FAU adds a powerful new option — one that gives Treasure Coast area students a guaranteed road to a Florida Atlantic University degree, with support built in from day one. This is about expanding what’s possible for our students and our region, and we couldn’t be more proud to make it happen alongside FAU.”
Here’s What You Get as a Link2FAU Student
Link2FAU isn’t just an admission promise — it’s a full support system built around you:
- A guaranteed seat at FAU once you complete your associate degree at The River with a 2.0 GPA or higher.
- FAU resources while you’re still at The River — including access to FAU’s libraries, Career Center, special lectures, and a discounted Recreation Center membership at the Boca campus.
- Scholarship opportunities exclusively available to Link2FAU students (based on available funding).
- Joint advising from both schools so you always know exactly what classes to take, what to plan for, and how to stay on track.
- FAU advisors on your campus at The River during “FAU Days” every semester, so you don’t have to travel to get university-level support.
- A clear 4–5 year timeline to finish both degrees — associate’s and bachelor’s — without guesswork.
“Link2FAU gives our students the confidence to start here knowing the road to a bachelor’s degree is clearly laid out in front of them,” said Dr. Calvin Williams, Associate Vice President of Advising / Career Services and Chief Career Officer at Indian River State College. “We are proud to be the launching pad for the next generation of Treasure Coast graduates.”
Who Can Join Link2FAU?
You may be eligible for Link2FAU:
- Are enrolled (or plan to enroll) at The River
- Plan to complete your associate degree within three academic years
- Maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA
- Are working toward an Associate in Arts (AA) or an articulated Associate in Science (AS) degree
Students can join Link2FAU when they apply to The River, or at any time before they’re admitted to FAU. FAU also directly refers eligible applicants from the region who weren’t offered direct FAU admission, so if you applied to FAU and didn’t get in, this could be your path. This applies to students from Martin, Indian River, Okeechobee, or St. Lucie County
“When students know from day one that their hard work at The River leads directly to an FAU degree, it changes how they approach their education,” said Dr. Heather Belmont, Indian River State College Provost. “We see better outcomes, stronger persistence, and more graduates. This is what opportunity looks like in practice.”
FAU Is Already in Your Corner
From the moment you join Link2FAU, you’re both a River student and part of the FAU community. FAU transfer advisors will come to you at The River, your path to FAU will be mapped and tracked, and when you’re ready to make the move, your spot is waiting.
“Florida Atlantic’s reputation as a national leader of social mobility is rooted in strong partnerships like the one memorialized in this important agreement,” said Dr. Ken Dawson-Scully, Provost and Executive Vice President at Florida Atlantic University. “Together with The River, we can ensure that every student in our community has a path to studying at a top-tier R1 research university.”
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Learn more about the Link2FAU program and how to get started at irsc.edu or speak with an advisor today.
Indian River State College offers many bachelor’s programs, allowing students to continue their education without the need to transfer. For students who do transfer, the College has designed several associate and baccalaureate degrees to transfer seamlessly to other public and private universities. Visit irsc.edu for more information.
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April 29, 2026
RiverBlog: Every Way You Can Transfer from Indian River State College to a Bachelor’s Degree
Everything Treasure Coast students need to know about transferring from The River to a bachelor’s degree — at The River or at a university near you.
If you’re a student at Indian River State College and wondering what comes next after your associate degree, you have more options than you might think. The College offers multiple pathways to a bachelor’s degree — whether you stay right here on campus or transfer to a Florida university like FAU or UCF. Here’s everything you need to know.
Fact #1: You May Not Need to Transfer at All
Indian River State College offers its own bachelor’s degree programs — which means you can complete your entire undergraduate education right here on a Treasure Coast campus, at a fraction of the cost of a traditional four-year university. If any of these fields match your goals, you may never need to leave The River:
- Accounting (B.S.)
- Business Administration (B.S.)
- Criminal Justice (B.S.)
- Health Care Management (B.S.)
- I.T. Management & Cyber Security (B.S.)
- Middle Grades Mathematics (B.S.)
- Organizational Management (B.A.S.)
- Public Administration: Public Policy and Leadership (B.S.)
Each of these programs is 120 credits and designed to take you from associate degree to bachelor’s degree on a clear, structured timeline. Talk to an advisor to find out which program fits your goals.
Fact #2: If You Do Transfer, Your Credits Come With You
The College has built its programs with transfer in mind. Indian River State College maintains transfer agreements with universities throughout Florida that spell out exactly which credits count — so you don’t lose the work you’ve already put in. Some agreements also include waived application fees and tuition discounts for River graduates.
Transfer Maps are available for each bachelor’s program pathway, showing you exactly which courses to take each semester and which “key courses” to prioritize passing on your first attempt. Planning ahead using these maps is one of the best things a transfer-bound student can do.
Fact #3: Guaranteed Transfer Pathways to Top Florida Universities
Florida Atlantic University (FAU) — Link2FAU
The River’s newest and most powerful transfer partnership gives eligible students a guaranteed path to a Florida Atlantic University bachelor’s degree. Link2FAU is not just a transfer agreement — it is a complete support program that starts the moment you enroll at The College:
- Guaranteed FAU admission, upon completing your associate degree at Indian River State College with a 2.0 cumulative GPA
- Joint Advising, from both Indian River State College and FAU advisors throughout your time at The River
- FAU student resources while you’re still here – libraries, Career Center, special lectures, events, and discounted Recreation Center membership at the Boca Raton campus
- Exclusive Link2FAU scholarships– available to program participants (based on available funding)
- FAU advisors on your campus, during “FAU Days” held every semester at The River
- FAU campuses across South Florida — Boca Raton, Treasure Coast, Jupiter, and Broward County
Students can join Link2FAU when they apply to Indian River State College, or at any point before being admitted to FAU. FAU also directly refers students from Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties who applied to FAU and were not offered direct admission — making Link2FAU a genuine second pathway to a university degree, not a consolation prize.
Learn more: www.irsc.edu/Link2FAU
University of Central Florida (UCF) — UCF Direct Connect
Indian River State College and the University of Central Florida have partnered to offer UCF Direct Connect, a guided pathway to an online bachelor’s degree at UCF. As you near completion of your associate degree at Indian River State College, UCF Direct Connect provides pre-enrollment counseling and dedicated support services to make the move to UCF Online smooth and successful.
Learn more: ucf.edu/online/info/indian-river-state-college
Western Governors University (WGU) — Online Bachelor’s & Master’s Degrees
Indian River State College and WGU have a transfer articulation agreement that ensures River credits transfer seamlessly into WGU’s online degree programs. WGU offers more than 80 accredited bachelor’s and master’s programs in business, information technology, K–12 education, and health professions including nursing — all fully online and competency-based, meaning you move at your own pace as you demonstrate mastery.
River graduates and employees are eligible for the WGU Community College Partner Scholarship, valued at $2,500 ($625 per term for up to four terms), plus a waived application fee. Tuition runs approximately $4,000 per six-month term for most bachelor’s programs.
Learn more: wgu.edu
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) — Graduate Programs
The River has partnered with Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) to give River students and employees a 10% tuition discount on SNHU graduate programs. SNHU offers approximately 200 accredited undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, available fully online, making it a flexible option for working adults ready to pursue a master’s degree.
For eligibility and enrollment details, email info@irsc.edu or visit the River Line advising portal.
Learn more: snhu.edu
Additional University Transfer Partners
The River also hosts regular transfer workshops and maintains relationships with the following institutions, covering majors, transfer requirements, scholarships, and more:
- Florida A&M University (FAMU)
- University of Florida
- University of South Florida
- Nova Southeastern University (NSU) — Graduate Programs
- Savannah College of Art and Design
Fact #4: Transfer Scholarships Can Help Pay for Your Bachelor’s Degree
Graduating from Indian River State College with an associate degree makes you eligible for merit-based transfer scholarships at several partner universities. Deadlines vary, so the earlier you start researching, the better. Key scholarship resources include:
- FAU Transfer Scholarships
- UCF Transfer Scholarships
- Indian River State College Scholarships
- FastWeb, a free nationwide scholarship search platform
Your advisor can help you identify which scholarships you qualify for and build a timeline to meet application deadlines.
Fact #5: Free Tools Help You Research and Plan Your Transfer
Not sure where you want to go yet? These free resources help Treasure Coast area students explore transfer options, check how their River credits transfer to hundreds of schools, and navigate Florida’s 2+2 articulation program:
- Transferology.com– See how your courses transfer to 400+ colleges and universities nationwide at transferology.com
- Florida Shines — Understand Florida’s 2+2 transfer program requirements and the impact of changing majors at floridashines.org
- College Source — Browse catalogs and institutional profiles for colleges nationwide at cso.collegesource.com
- Princeton Review— Test prep resources, admissions guidance, and graduate program search at princetonreview.com
Fact #6: The River’s Transfer Services Team Is in Your Corner
Navigating transfer admissions, credit evaluations, scholarship applications, and university requirements is a lot to manage. The River’s Transfer Services team is here to make it easier. Students at Indian River State College have access to:
- Personalized transfer advising — available in person, by phone, or online
- Application assistance — guidance through every step of the university admissions process
- Regular transfer workshops with partner universities covering majors, requirements, and scholarships
- Graduate school support for River bachelor’s degree graduates ready for their next step
- Resume, personal statement, and cover letter help
- A joint new student welcome experience for students entering transfer programs like Link2FAU
Ready to Talk Through Your Options?
Schedule an appointment with a Transfer Services advisor today — in person, by phone, or online. Your path to a bachelor’s degree starts at The River.
Schedule an appointment: Contact RiverLine
Published: April 28, 2026
April 28, 2026
Indian River State College Hosts FCSSGA Statewide Student Government Conference, Highlighting the College’s Leadership in Student Engagement
The River welcomed approximately 240 student government leaders and advisors from across the Florida College System to its Massey Campus.
Approximately 240 student government leaders and faculty advisors from across the Florida College System gather in the Indian River State College gymnasium at the Massey Campus in Fort Pierce during the FCSSGA April End-of-Year Conference, held April 9–11, 2026.
FORT PIERCE, FL (April 25, 2026) — Indian River State College (The River) served as the proud host institution for the Florida College System Student Government Association (FCSSGA) April End-of-Year Conference. The conference was held April 9–11, 2026, on the College’s Massey Campus in Fort Pierce. The three-day statewide conference united approximately 240 student government leaders and faculty advisors. These participants represented institutions from across Florida’s College System.
The conference featured welcoming remarks, workshops, breakout sessions, and the election of new statewide student government officers. The College’s Student Government Association (SGA) members and Campus Liaisons served as hosts and ambassadors throughout the event. In addition, several of The River’s students earned awards. Several were also elected to positions at the conference.
“Hosting the FCSSGA End-of-Year Conference on our Massey Campus is a proud moment for Indian River State College,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President of Indian River State College. “It reflects the dedication of our students, the excellence of our Student Government Association, and the College’s commitment to developing the next generation of leaders.”
A Student Governance Model Built for Every Campus
The River’s Student Government Association serves as the governing body for all student clubs and organizations at the College. SGA leadership is comprised of a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Press Secretary. It also oversees five active committees: the Student Life Committee, Legislative Committee, Historian Committee, Helping Hands Committee, and the PR & Marketing Committee. Additionally, each committee is led by student co-chairs.
“Student success at The River extends far beyond the classroom,” said Elizabeth Gaskin, Indian River State College’s Vice President for Student Success. “Programs like our Student Government Association and Campus Liaisons give students the tools, experience, and confidence to lead — and hosting this conference is proof of what that investment looks like in action. Seeing our students thrive is exactly what student success means to us.”
Complementing SGA is The River’s Campus Liaisons program — an innovative model designed to ensure that student leadership opportunities are not confined to a single campus. Campus Liaison students receive the same training and participate in the same leadership development experiences as SGA members. This includes attendance at FCSSGA conferences and the annual advocacy trip to Tallahassee for the FCSSGA Advocacy Conference. As a result, this inclusive structure extends meaningful student leadership access across four of the College’s partner campuses. Specifically, these are the Pruitt Campus, Dixon Hendry Campus, Mueller Campus, and Chastain Campus.
“This conference was a remarkable opportunity for our students to lead on a statewide stage — and they delivered,” said Gracia Buzziz, Director of Student Experience at Indian River State College. “From serving as hosts and ambassadors to earning awards and winning elected positions, our SGA members and Campus Liaisons demonstrated exactly what student leadership looks like at The River. We are incredibly proud of everything they accomplished.”
Reinforcing The River’s Statewide Presence
By hosting 240 attendees from institutions across the Florida College System and earning student recognition at the state level, The River continues to strengthen its position as a leader in student engagement, governance, and leadership development. The College’s ability to attract a statewide conference of this scale reflects the institutional investment in programs, infrastructure, and people. In addition, these elements make meaningful student leadership possible at every level.
To learn more about Indian River State College and its programs, visit https://irsc.edu/.
To apply to Indian River State College, visit https://irsc.edu/admissions/apply/.
April 25, 2026
Indian River State College Now Accepting Applications for 2026 Promise Program: Two Years of Tuition-Free College for Local High School Graduates
FORT PIERCE, FL (January 8, 2026) – Indian River State College is now accepting applications for its 2026 Promise Program, offering local high school graduates the opportunity to earn an associate degree with 100% of in-state tuition covered.
Indian River State College signed up its first 2026 Promise Program students at an event at Jensen Beach High School on January 7, 2026.
Program Overview
The Indian River State College Promise Program provides eligible 2026 graduates from public, charter, approved private, or in-district homeschool students in Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie counties with two years of tuition-free education leading to an Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, or Associate in Applied Science degree.
“This is your opportunity to pursue higher education without the burden of tuition costs,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College president. “If you’re graduating high school in 2026, I encourage you to apply today. The Promise Program can open doors to your future career, help you explore your interests, and let you earn a degree right here in your community. Don’t wait – take this step toward your goals.”
Program Highlights
- Free Tuition: Covers 100% of in-state tuition for eligible students
- Two-Year Completion: Students can earn their degree in six terms or less
- No GPA or Income Requirements: Open to all qualifying 2026 graduates who meet program deadlines
- Local Opportunity: Available to students from four counties in the Treasure Coast region.
- Applications Now Open: Eligible students can apply today
How to Apply
Interested students should:
1. Apply to Indian River State College and select “Promise 2026” in their application. Applications can be completed on the College’s website at irsc.edu.
1. Submit the 2026-2027 FAFSA (school code: 001493) and Florida Residency Documents
1. Send official high school transcripts
1. Register for classes (minimum 12 credit hours)
1. Complete all requirements by July 13, 2026. Students are strongly encouraged to begin the application process early, as completing all required forms and documentation can take several weeks.
Promise 2026 Road Show
Indian River State College is bringing the Promise Program directly to students through the 2026 Promise Program Road Show, visiting high schools across the Treasure Coast throughout January. The Road Show will visit Martin County High School, Sebastian River High School, Indiantown High School, Indian River Charter High School, Vero Beach High School, Okeechobee High School, Jensen Beach High School, St Lucie West Centennial, Fort Pierce Central High School, South Fork High School, John Carroll High School, Clark Advanced Learning Center, Indian River Charter High School, and Somerset between January 8-29, 2026. Students can get information, ask questions, and receive application assistance during these campus visits.
Learn More
Prospective students and families are invited to watch a recorded information session to learn more about the Promise Program, eligibility requirements, application process, and student success resources.
- Watch recorded sessions: irsc.edu/admissions/promise
- Sign up for program updates: irsc.edu/admissions/promise
Important Information
While the Promise Program covers tuition, students should budget for additional college expenses including fees, books, supplies, technology, transportation, and living costs. Promise students must maintain satisfactory academic progress and complete renewal requirements each year to continue receiving funding.
Program Funding and Economic Impact
The Promise Program is funded through generous donor philanthropy and unrestricted investment proceeds managed by the Indian River State College Foundation. The program uses a “last dollar” funding model, covering any tuition costs remaining after financial aid and scholarships are applied.
By enabling more students to earn degrees in high-demand fields, the program helps develop a skilled workforce for the Treasure Coast region while allowing graduates to build careers without student debt.
About Indian River State College
Indian River State College serves students across Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie counties, offering associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and workforce training programs. The College is committed to providing accessible, affordable higher education to the Treasure Coast region.
Contact Information
For more information:
- Website: irsc.edu/admissions/promise
- Email: promise@irsc.edu
- Phone: 772-462-4772
- Toll-Free: 1-866-792-4772
Para información en español:
- Email: promise@irsc.edu
- Teléfono: 772-462-4772
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January 8, 2026
Tuition Discount Now Offered for Indian River State College Community Pursuing Graduate Education
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (December 3, 2025)  – Indian River State College (The River) and Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) today announced a new educational partnership designed to support the academic advancement of students and employees of The River.
Under the terms of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two institutions, SNHU will provide a 10% tuition discount to Indian River State College employees and students enrolling in graduate programs. The partnership reflects both institutions’ commitment to expanding access to affordable higher education and supporting lifelong learning.
“This partnership with Southern New Hampshire University opens new doors for our students and employees who aspire to advance their education,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President of Indian River State College. “By working together, we can help more members of our community achieve their graduate education goals while reducing financial barriers.”
Dr. Heather Belmont, Provost at The River, emphasized the academic value of the collaboration. “We are excited to connect our community with SNHU’s quality graduate programs. This partnership aligns with our mission to support educational pathways and provide our students and staff with opportunities for continued academic growth and professional development.”
Dr. Calvin Williams, Associate Vice President for Advising and Career Services and Chief Career Officer at The River, noted the career implications of the partnership. “Graduate education is increasingly important in today’s competitive job market. This agreement with SNHU provides our students and employees with an affordable pathway to advanced credentials that can enhance their career prospects and earning potential.”
“Southern New Hampshire University is proud to partner with Indian River State College to expand access to affordable, high-quality graduate education,” said Dr. Jeremy Owens, Associate Vice President of University Partnerships at SNHU. “Through this collaboration, we are empowering Indian River’s student and employee communities to pursue their educational goals with flexible pathways that support their professional growth and long-term success.”
For more information about this partnership and eligibility requirements, email Indian River State College at info@irsc.edu or join the River Line!
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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.
About Southern New Hampshire University: Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private, nonprofit institution with a 92-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults. Now serving more than 200,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 accredited undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH. Recognized as one of the “Most Innovative” regional universities by U.S. News & World Report and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, SNHU is committed to expanding access to high-quality, affordable pathways that meet the needs of each learner. Learn more at www.snhu.edu.
December 3, 2025
RiverBlog: Our Sacred Duty: Supporting America’s Veterans Through Higher Education
By Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College President
When I took office as a college president, I made a promise—not just to our institution, but to every veteran who has worn the uniform of our nation’s armed forces. That promise was simple: we would never treat our veterans as an afterthought.
As we approach Veterans Day, I’m reminded of my own journey through higher education as a veteran. Too often, veterans’ services were tucked away in forgotten corners of campus, under-resourced and undervalued. The message was clear: institutions wanted our tuition dollars but weren’t prepared to provide the support we had earned through our service.
This cannot be our legacy.
Today, our college serves more than 400 student veterans and military family members this fall semester alone—more than 1,300 throughout the year. But numbers tell only part of the story. What matters most is how we serve them.
Our designation as both a Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus and a Gold Status Military Friendly® School represents more than recognition—it’s an exclamation point affirming we’re doing it right. Yet I view these honors as waypoints, not destinations, on our journey to become the institution our veterans deserve.
The transition from military service to civilian life is profound. Our veterans leave an environment of structure, purpose, and camaraderie to navigate a world that often doesn’t understand what they’ve experienced. Many carry visible and invisible wounds from their service. They need more than just academic instruction—they need community, understanding, and support from people who recognize when they’re struggling and know how to help.
This is why we established a Military and Veterans Services department housed at our Veterans Center of Excellence, where veterans can access all available services. It’s not hidden away or difficult to find. It stands as a visible commitment to placing veterans front and center in everything we do. From initial application through graduation, our Military and Veterans Services team provides comprehensive support—admissions assistance, VA benefits certification, academic advising, and emergency financial support. As our Veterans Coordinator and fellow Army veteran puts it: “We take the worrying out of the process because these students have already sacrificed enough.”
The results speak for themselves. More than 250 of our veteran students maintain GPAs of 3.5 or higher. They’re not just attending—they’re excelling and contributing meaningfully to our campus community. Our recent 99.99% compliance rating from the VA reflects our commitment to properly administering the benefits these students have earned.
But academic excellence is only part of our mission. We’re also cultivating something equally important: a culture of respect and gratitude. I watch our students daily—when they discover a classmate has served, they thank them immediately, understanding that person has done something beyond self. This is the atmosphere we must nurture: one where the next generation appreciates the sacrifice of those who came before.
The freedoms we enjoy as Americans are paid for daily by our veteran population. These men and women sacrificed their freedom, time with family, holidays and weekends to serve a higher cause. They were willing to give everything for our nation. The question we must ask ourselves is simple: What are we willing to give them in return?
Education is the great equalizer in America. It’s the pathway to high-paying civilian careers, stability for families, to contributions that strengthen our communities and nation. When we support veterans through higher education, we’re not just keeping a promise—we’re investing in leaders who have already proven their commitment to something greater than themselves.
This Veterans Day, I challenge every higher education institution to examine their commitment to military-connected students. Are your veterans’ services prominent or hidden? Adequately resourced or struggling? Do your faculty and staff understand the unique challenges veterans face? Does your campus culture honor their sacrifices?
At our institution, we’re committed to continuing to grow our veteran population, expanding our support services, and ensuring every veteran who walks through our doors transitions to a successful civilian career. This isn’t charity—it’s our sacred duty.
To our veterans: you served us. Now let us serve you. Your transition from uniform to civilian life should be smooth, respectful, and supported every step of the way. You’ve earned it.
To our fellow educators: veterans aren’t just students seeking degrees—they’re proven leaders with invaluable experience. They will elevate our institutions if we give them the support they deserve.
And to all Americans this Veterans Day: gratitude without action is hollow. Let us honor our veterans not just with words, but with the comprehensive support systems that transform their sacrifice into lifelong success.
That’s the promise we keep at our institution. That’s the standard we must set for the nation.
Dr. Timothy E. Moore is President of Indian River State College and a United States Army veteran.
November 7, 2025
Indian River State College Honors Veterans Day with Continued Commitment to Military Student Excellence
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Nov. 7, 2025) – As the nation prepares to observe Veterans Day, Indian River State College reaffirms its dedication to serving those who have served our country. The College’s comprehensive support programs for military-connected students continue to set the standard for higher education institutions nationwide.
Indian River State College currently serves over 400 student veterans and military family members enrolled for the Fall 2025 semester, with more than 1,300 served throughout 2025. The College has earned recognition as both a Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus and a Gold Status Military Friendly® School for 2025-2026—distinctions that honor institutions providing exceptional support to military students.
“This Veterans Day, we honor the brave men and women who have served our nation and our responsibility to serve them,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College President and Army veteran. “At Indian River State College, supporting our veterans is more than a mission—it is a commitment we uphold every day through dedicated programs, personalized resources, and a welcoming community that honors their service while helping them thrive academically.”
At the heart of this commitment is the College’s Military and Veterans Service Department. The department is housed in the Veterans Center of Excellence, a one-stop hub for veteran students from application through graduation. The Center provides comprehensive services, including admissions assistance, VA benefits certification, academic advising, and financial support.
“Success means seeing veterans make the most of their benefits and reach their goals,” said Camilo Medina, Veterans Center of Excellence Coordinator and Army veteran. “Our job is to take the stress out of the process – these students have already given so much. We want them to feel like they belong to a family here, and that’s exactly the environment we create.”
The College’s veteran students consistently demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, with over 250 maintaining GPAs of 3.5 or higher. The institution recently earned a 99.99% compliance rating from the VA, reflecting its commitment to proper administration of veterans’ education benefits.
“Our veteran students are attending, excelling, and making meaningful contributions to our community,” said Dr. Calvin Williams, Associate Vice President of Advising and Career Services and Air Force veteran. “We proudly support service members, veterans, and their families as they pursue their educational goals and transition into successful civilian careers.”
For information about Indian River State College’s veteran services, visit irsc.edu or contact veteransinfo@irsc.edu or (772) 462-7711.
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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 7, 2025
Indian River State College Tutoring Center Earns Prestigious International Certification
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (November 3, 2025) — Indian River State College (“The River”) is pleased to announce that its Tutoring Center – encompassing course-embedded learning assistant, peer tutor, and tutor programs – has been awarded certification as Level 1 and Level 2 certified tutor training programs by the internationally recognized College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA).
The River’s Academic Support Center provides professional tutoring across all subject areas to help students succeed.
For more than 30 years, CRLA has been a leader in learning assistance, reading, and academic support programs with almost 1,300 members and over 2,000 certified training programs worldwide. The organization’s International Tutor Training Program Certification (ITTPC) recognizes tutor training programs that have demonstrated excellence in developing, designing, and implementing effective training procedures.
Indian River State College has worked diligently to develop a tutor training program that meets CRLA’s rigorous standards and has successfully completed the ITTPC peer review process. Achieving this certification means that The River has met CRLA’s high standards for tutor selection, training, direct service, and evaluation as an integral part of its overall tutoring program.
“This certification represents our commitment to providing the highest quality academic support services to our students,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College president. “By meeting these internationally recognized standards, we are ensuring that our tutoring programs not only support student success but also provide valuable professional development opportunities for our student tutors.”
The certification brings significant benefits to The River and its students. It sets a benchmark for academic support excellence across the institution, ensures compliance with internationally recognized best practices in higher education tutorial services, and strengthens the connection between curriculum and academic support services.
“Students benefit immensely from working with tutors who are trained in effective helping strategies, communication skills, and structuring the tutoring experience,” said Dr. Lynne O’Dell, Director of STEM Pioneer/School of Science and Adjunct Student Success. “This certification validates the quality and professionalism of our tutoring program and ensures that every student receives support from trained para-professionals who understand best practices in academic assistance.”
For student tutors and learning assistants, the certification provides valuable career development opportunities. Many Indian River State College learning assistants and peer tutors who have transferred to universities have secured employment on campus as tutors because they worked at an institution holding CRLA certification. The program teaches skills commensurate with best practices, increases confidence in content areas and public speaking, and strengthens resumes with an internationally recognized certificate.
“Supporting our students’ academic journey is at the heart of what we do at Indian River State College,” said Dr. Heather Belmont, Indian River State College provost. “This CRLA certification demonstrates our dedication to excellence in every aspect of student support, from the classroom to the tutoring center. We’re proud to offer services that meet the highest national standards.”
For more information about tutoring services at Indian River State College, visit https://irsc.libguides.com/TutoringCenters.
November 3, 2025
Indian River State College and Florida International University Partner to Create Seamless Transfer Pathway for Hospitality and Tourism Students
FORT PIERCE, Fla. (Oct. 17, 2025) – Indian River State College (“The River”) and Florida International University (FIU) have announced a new articulation agreement that will provide a seamless transfer pathway for students pursuing careers in hospitality and tourism management. The partnership allows graduates of The River with an Associate in Science degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management to transfer directly into FIU’s top-ranked Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management to complete their bachelor’s degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management. Students will complete their BS in Hospitality & Tourism Management one semester faster and will save over $1,250 in tuition costs with this agreement.
The agreement addresses the critical need for qualified hospitality professionals in Florida’s tourism industry, which generated a record $128 billion economic impact in 2023 statewide. The Treasure Coast region, served by The River, plays a vital role in this economic engine, contributing significantly to the state’s position as a premier tourism destination.
“This partnership with FIU represents a tremendous opportunity for our students to advance their education and career prospects in one of Florida’s most important industries,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President of Indian River State College. “By creating this direct pathway to a four-year degree in hospitality and tourism, we’re ensuring our graduates have the credentials and knowledge needed to assume leadership roles in hospitality and tourism management. This agreement reflects our commitment to providing students with affordable, accessible education that leads to meaningful career opportunities in high-demand fields.”
FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management is ranked 4th in the U.S. and 31st in the world, making this partnership particularly valuable for Indian River State College students seeking to advance their careers.
Students in Chef Deborah Midkiff’s International and Regional Cuisine class at Indian River State College prepare a menu. Janely Santiago and James Stewart developed the menu and directed their classmates as sous chefs.
“We are excited to welcome Indian River State College graduates into our programs,” said Diann Newman, vice-dean of FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management. “This articulation agreement ensures that students receive a comprehensive education that builds upon the strong foundation established at Indian River State College. Our partnership will help meet the growing demand for skilled hospitality professionals throughout Florida and beyond, while providing students with enhanced career opportunities in this dynamic industry.”
The significance of this agreement extends beyond individual student benefits. Florida’s tourism industry is a cornerstone of the state’s economy, with 34.4 million visitors welcomed in just the second quarter of 2025 alone. The Treasure Coast region, encompassing Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie counties, where The River operates, benefits significantly from tourism spending and requires qualified professionals to manage hotels, restaurants, attractions, and tourism-related businesses.
“The hospitality and tourism industry offers incredible career opportunities for our students, and this partnership with FIU ensures they can pursue those opportunities with the highest level of preparation,” said Deborah Midkiff, Department Chair and Instructor for Hospitality and Tourism Management at Indian River State College. “Our Associate in Science program already prepares students for entry-level management positions in food & beverage, and tourism, but now they have a clear pathway to advance to senior management roles. We’re seeing strong demand from employers for graduates with both practical experience and advanced education, and this agreement delivers exactly that combination.”
The River’s Associate in Science in Hospitality and Tourism degree prepares students for entry-level management positions in the food & beverage and tourism industry. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience to ensure graduates are workforce-ready upon completion.
Students in the program gain expertise in:
- Hotel and lodging operations
- Food and beverage management
- Event planning and management
- Tourism marketing and development
- Customer service excellence
- Financial management in hospitality
- Sustainable tourism practices
For more information about Indian River State College’s Hospitality and Tourism Management program, visit: https://irsc.smartcatalogiq.com/en/current/catalog/aas-degrees-certificates/hospitality-and-tourism-management and https://hospitality.fiu.edu/to learn more about FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management.
October 17, 2025