Eastern Florida State College Foundation to Host Simpkins Speaker Series EmpowerU Conference Nov. 19

By  //  November 7, 2025

The event is free and open to faculty, staff, students and the public

Michele Goodwin, President/COO, Ron Jon Surf Shop, will be among the speakers during the Eastern Florida State College Foundation’s 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.

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – The Eastern Florida State College 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.

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 Eastern Florida State College.

This dynamic panel discussion will address the challenges students face today and explore innovative strategies to promote completion, equity, and educational success.

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.

CLICK HERE for more details.

Legendary philanthropist and businessman Bernie Simpkins passed away Friday, Oct. 16, 2020, at age 92. He has left an indelible mark on Brevard County – and beyond – and was honored in 2016 by Space Coast Daily with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Now for Spring 2026 Spring Classes at Eastern Florida State College!

Spring Term applications are open now. CLICK HERE to take your next step today!

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