PÕ¾ÊÓƵ

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (November 21, 2025) — PÕ¾ÊÓƵ (The River) celebrated exceptional dedication and achievement at its 2025 Service Awards Reception, recognizing individuals and teams whose contributions have significantly advanced The River’s strategic priorities and mission. 

Strategic Goal and Special Award Recipients 

Thomas Lewis received recognition for Meritorious Service for improving student success. Gracia Buzziz was honored for Meritorious Service for increasing college-going in the community. The college’s Canvas Implementation Team of Jessica Bajarano, Molly Goyette, Stephen Hayden, Elizabeth Jefferson, April Litton, and Veronica Mena received recognition for Meritorious Service for promoting continuous improvement to enhance organizational performance. 

Alisa Brown received the True North Navigator Award, recognizing a team member who excels in directing courses of action in alignment with the Strategic Plan. Frank Schlitt was presented with the Peregrine Award, honoring an external contributor of distinction. Ann Sampson was named Team Member of the Year, recognized by her peers as a top role model for staff excellence. 

“These exceptional individuals and teams represent the very best of PÕ¾ÊÓƵ,” said President Timothy E. Moore. “Their dedication, innovation and commitment to our students and community embody the values that make The River a leader in higher education.” 

Alessandra Thompson, vice president of human resources, added: “Our employees are the foundation of everything we accomplish at The River. These honorees exemplify the dedication and innovation that define our college culture.” 

Years of Service Recognition 

• Thirty-Five Years: Janine Merriman and Douglas Wilberscheid 

• Twenty-Five Years: Alexandra Anez, Steven Daniello, Audrey Delaune, Laura Kauffman, Rosemarie Mason, Vicky Ortiz-Lopez, Carla Parker and Latrice Thomas 

• Twenty Years: John Butler, Simone Griffith, Charles Hilton, Anna Hutcheson, Dr. Sarah Mallonee, Paula Rich, Paul Sanchez, Judy Smith, David Suba, Jose Veliz, Dr. Racquida Williams and Joe Wilson 

• Fifteen Years: Dr. Ron Carlson, Dr. Michelle Cuba, Sikita Goodrich, Dr. Steven Hammer, Sarita Hmamly, Molly Lalla, Viviane Mignone and Dr. Lisa Mosing 

• Ten Years: Butch Almberg, Dr. Beth Amey, Dr. Suchi Banerjee, Dr. John Bray, Dr. Scott Brewer, Dr. Armon Copeland, Dr. Brian Freeman, Gina Halleran, Jerelyn Moore, Angie Neely-Sardon, Steven Nicholson, Dr. Ogugua Onyejekwe, Casandra Raya, Christine Richard, Frances Rowles, Alma Umana and Dr. Robin Zide 

The PÕ¾ÊÓƵ 2025 Service Awards Reception was held at the College’s Eastman Advanced Workforce Complex at the college’s main campus in Fort Pierce, Florida.  

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About PÕ¾ÊÓƵ: PÕ¾ÊÓƵ, serving Florida’s Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, offers high-quality, affordable education to 24,000 students annually through traditional and online courses. The College provides over 130 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas. To learn more, visit irsc.edu.