Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) will host its annual EmpowerU: Explore Next College & Career Symposium on Friday, April 17, 2026, with former NFL coach Urban Meyer set to deliver a keynote address. The event will take place at the EFSC Melbourne Campus, Building 16, starting at 10 a.m. Meyer, who led the Florida Gators to two national championships, will participate in a live virtual Q&A session as part of the Bernard Simpkins Entrepreneurial Speaker Series. The symposium aims to connect high school students, parents, and educators with resources for higher education and career planning.
The event is designed to provide practical guidance for students navigating college applications and career paths. Registration is required and can be completed through the EFSC website. The symposium will include workshops, college fair booths, and sessions on financial aid, STEM fields, and entrepreneurship. Meyer’s appearance is expected to draw significant interest, given his prominence in collegiate athletics and his role as a former head coach at Ohio State, Utah, and Florida.
The EFSC Melbourne Campus, located at 1101 E. New Haven Avenue, has become a hub for educational programming in Brevard County. The symposium is part of a broader effort by the college to support local students through initiatives like its Media Innovation Program, which trains future filmmakers and content creators. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with no cost to attend, though pre-registration is encouraged.
Local educators say the symposium provides a rare opportunity for students to engage directly with a national figure in leadership and sports. ‘It’s a chance for students to hear from someone who’s shaped the lives of thousands of athletes,’ said one Brevard County school counselor. The event will also feature breakout sessions on topics like mental health, internships, and trade careers, reflecting the diverse needs of the student population.