EFSC Foundation to Host Simpkins Speaker Series EmpowerU Conference
November 6, 2025
The Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) Foundation will present a special Simpkins
Speaker Series event, EmpowerU, on Wednesday, November 19, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
at the Simpkins Fine Arts Center (Building 4) on EFSC’s Cocoa Campus, located at 1519
Clearlake Road.
This dynamic panel discussion will address the challenges students face today and
explore innovative strategies to promote completion, equity, and success in education.
Featured Panelists:
- The Hon. Dana Blickley, Brevard County Property Appraiser
- The Hon. Lisa Cullen, Brevard County Tax Collector
- Ms. Michele Goodwin, President/COO, Ron Jon Surf Shop
- Mr. Luis Hernandez, Owner/Operator, Culver’s Restaurant
- The Hon. Rachel Sadoff, Brevard County Clerk of Courts
Sponsored by the Simpkins Speaker Series, the EmpowerU Conference offers attendees
the chance to connect with passionate community leaders, advocates, and educators
who are driving educational change and creating pathways for every student to thrive.
The event is free and open to faculty, staff, students, and the public. A complimentary
“grab-and-go” lunch will be provided.
For more details, visit easternflorida.edu/go/simpkins.
The Simpkins Speaker Series honors Bernard Simpkins, a highly successful entrepreneur
and Brevard County business leader. Since its inception in 2001, the series has brought
many of the nation’s top business innovators to EFSC.
- Media Contact: Suzanne Rains, APR, CPRC, Associate Vice President, Communications
- Office:321-433-7022
- Cell:321-537-6986
- Email:rainss@easternflorida.edu
Recent News
November 24, 2025 — Sponsored by the Simpkins Speakers Series, the EmpowerU Conference provided participants with the opportunity to connect with passionate community leaders, advocates, and educators.
November 17, 2025 — The EFSC Foundation announced that its 12th Annual Scholarship Golf Classic raised more than $158,000 to support student scholarships on Friday, November 7, at Duran Golf Club.
October 22, 2025 — The Eastern Florida State College Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of two new members to its Board of Directors: Ron Gicca and Marcus Ingeldsen.