Distinguished Alumni Award

The Eastern Florida State College Foundation honors Distinguished Alumni each year. Nominees must have completed at least one course at EFSC, Brevard Community College, or Brevard Junior College.

Honorees are chosen based on notable achievements in their career field, distinguished philanthropic or public service activity, and considerable civic activities. The EFSC Foundation will begin accepting applications for the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award in July.

2025 Honoree is Community Leader

Susan Hammerling Hodgers is an experienced, board-certified Physician Assistant with over 24 years of specialized expertise in dermatology at Water’s Edge Dermatology. But that dedication extends far beyond dermatology, making her the perfect candidate for the EFSC Foundation’s 2025 Distinguished Alumni honor.

After graduating from Satellite High School in 1995, Susan received both her A.A. and A.S. degrees from EFSC (then Brevard Community College). She was active in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society on campus and also found time to work as an assistant for then Florida State Senator Mike Haridopolos.

Susan earned her Bachelor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University, followed by a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Nebraska. She is a Diplomate of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, demonstrating her advanced level of clinical competence in dermatology.

Since moving back to Viera in 2011, she has been deeply involved in community service. She is a board member of Cocoa Village Playhouse and Aging Matters/Meals on Wheels and volunteers as a Guardian Ad Litem.

“Susan’s belief in making a positive impact on people’s lives is evident in both her professional and personal endeavors,” said college president, Dr. Jim Richey. “We are pleased to honor her in this way.”