EFSC FOUNDATION REPORT
Your Support MAKES A DIFFERENCE
This year, the EFSC Foundation has continued to make a lasting difference through strategic investments that support student achievement and meet academic program needs at Eastern Florida State College. The following new scholarships, community grants gained, and program support awards highlight the impact made year-to-date.
Spring 2026 Florida Undergraduate Research Exhibition and the FURC Annual Conference
The EFSC Undergraduate Research Exhibition( URE) ensures students from all academic disciplines have an opportunity to showcase original research, scholarly projects, and creative works. From the
ABOVE Undergraduate Research Fall 2025 URE, a total of 13 EFSC students were accepted to present their research at the Florida Undergraduate Research Conference( FURC) on March 6-7 at the University of North Florida.
EFSC Growing with the Arts
Held on April 29 at the Titusville Campus, this event provides a forum for students at several local elementary and secondary schools to participate in an art show, thereby exposing them and their parents to EFSC. Many of these school-age children later enroll in at the college. The event continues to grow every year, and attendance can reach as high as 380 guests.
EFSC Annual Programming Competition
This competition provides students with an opportunity to showcase their skills, collaborate with peers, and gain practical experience in solving ABOVE Programming Competition contestants real-world problems. Contestants solve up to five problems over three hours using any or all of the following languages: Java, C ++, C #, and Python.
Winter Music Symposium
The Florida College System Activities Association( FCSAA) and the Florida Association of Schools of Music( FASM) sponsor the annual Music Student Artist Competition for eligible state college music students. This year, Darwin Flores( Clarinet major) won in the woodwinds category.
Jazz Education Network( JEN) Intercollegiate
Community College Honors
In January, two EFSC music students, Edward George and David Martinez, were selected for the JEN Intercollegiate Community College Honors Jazz Ensemble, an internationally competitive music ensemble which rehearsed and performed at the 2026 JEN Convention in New Orleans, LA. This prestigious event exposes students to master educators and industry professionals. Last year ' s conference, Edward George was offered a summer teaching and mentorship position at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, and David Martinez was offered full-ride scholarships to the jazz program.
NEW SCHOLARSHIPS CREATED
Christie Family Academic & Technical Scholarship Funds
These funds provide scholarship support to Eastern Florida State College students pursuing both general academic studies and Career and Technical Education programs.
Charity Szczepanek Memorial Scholarship
Created by Ken Szczepanek and his family in memory of Charity, the scholarship will provide meaningful support to students pursuing their education in Veterinary Technology at Eastern Florida State College, helping them move closer to careers dedicated to making a difference in the lives of animals and the families who love them.
Troy Fredheim’ s Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship fund for an Engineering Technology student was created in Troy’ s memory by his loving family. A dual-enrolled student while attending Merritt Island High School, Troy was a creative person who made an impact on all those whose lives he touched. Troy and Dr. Erin Baird embarked on creating the Rotaract Club at EFSC. Troy became the first president, created its web page, and as a leader, was involved in multiple community service projects for the City of Cocoa.
Nazarene Friends Community & Education Impact Scholarships
Created by Nazarene Friends, these two scholarships provide financial support to graduates of Palm Bay High School who demonstrate financial need. By helping local students continue their education at Eastern Florida State College, Nazarene Friends is investing in the next generation and helping remove financial barriers that can stand in the way of achieving their educational and career goals.
Dr. Charles Albert Gillespie Professor Emeritus Scholarship
The Dr. Charles Albert Gillespie Professor Emeritus Scholarship reflects Dr. Gillespie’ s lifelong commitment to education and his deep love of animals. A longtime educator, artist and passionate equine enthusiast, Dr. Gillespie dedicated his career to inspiring others and pursuing his many passions. Through this scholarship, Dr. Gillespie is helping Veterinary Technology students at Eastern Florida State College pursue their education and prepare for careers caring for animals.
DONATE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Find out more by calling us at 321-433-7055 or emailing foundation @ easternflorida. edu
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