EFSC Alumni Gather to Support Student Scholarships

More than 150 Eastern Florida State College alumni gathered Thursday night to support student scholarships and learn what they can do to contribute to the college's success.

The event was sponsored by the EFSC Foundation to relaunch its Alumni Association and connect graduates with new initiatives the college has underway.

Among the alumni attending was U.S. Rep. Bill Posey who represents Brevard County in Congress, former Brevard County Commissioner Chuck Nelson and business and civic leaders.

College President Dr. Jim Richey discussed an impressive list of college achievements, including not raising tuition five straight years and starting 40 new academic programs since 2013.

The programs include Bachelor Degree tracks with more than 1,100 students currently enrolled that he said are meeting "a critical need that is allowing students to advance their careers in a way that did not previously exist in our community."

He also outlined the college's major investment in constructing new buildings and upgrading others on all four campuses to provide the best facilities possible and create "a rich learning environment."

Richey noted the Foundation has provided 466 scholarships this academic year but that 2,500 students with a real need applied.

He asked the alumni for their commitment to help increase scholarships through the Foundation's new "Come Grow With Us" fundraising campaign and other efforts.

"Working together I know our future is bright," said Richey.

The event was held at the King Center for the Performing Arts on the Melbourne campus where alumni talked with students, enjoyed food provided by the the college's culinary program and listened to the Student Jazz Ensemble perform.

For more information on the EFSC Foundation and how to donate, call 321-433-7055 or visit easternflorida.edu/go/titanfund.