Community Programs
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
The Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneurship Program
To promote awareness and appreciation of our free enterprise system, the Indian River State College Foundation, Lambert Foundation, and thirteen other founding members have joined together to create the Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneurship Program. This multi-faceted program is funded through a leadership contribution from the Lambert Foundation in honor of Mr. Dan K. Richardson, former Chairman of the Board of Gracewood Groves, Gracewood Fruit Company, and the Richardson Family Foundation.
The Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneurship Program encourages entrepreneurship through education with scholarships, community lectures, and instructional programs. Each facet of this program supports and reinforces the principles of free enterprise that have made our nation great. Business leaders who have helped to build our community are honored through the annual Entrepreneur of the Year Award. This year's recipient, Jim Coffey, Commercial Realtor/ Developer and former President of Earman Oil, Inc., was honored at a special awards dinner on March 13, 2012 at the Richardson Center, IRSC Mueller Campus.
The Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneurship Program
To promote awareness and appreciation of our free enterprise system, the Indian River State College Foundation, Lambert Foundation, and thirteen other founding members have joined together to create the Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneurship Program. This multi-faceted program is funded through a leadership contribution from the Lambert Foundation in honor of Mr. Dan K. Richardson, former Chairman of the Board of Gracewood Groves, Gracewood Fruit Company, and the Richardson Family Foundation.
The Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneurship Program encourages entrepreneurship through education with scholarships, community lectures, and instructional programs. Each facet of this program supports and reinforces the principles of free enterprise that have made our nation great. Business leaders who have helped to build our community are honored through the annual Entrepreneur of the Year Award. This year's recipient, Jim Coffey, Commercial Realtor/ Developer and former President of Earman Oil, Inc., was honored at a special awards dinner on March 13, 2012 at the Richardson Center, IRSC Mueller Campus.
2012 Entrepreneur of the Year - Mr. Jim Coffey
The Entrepreneur of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding business founder or leader. The 2012 recipient was Mr. Jim Coffey,Commercial Realtor/ Developer and Former President of Earman Oil, Inc. Pictured above with Barry Keim, Vice President of Administration and Finance, Indian River State College ( L ) is Mr. Jim Coffey and Roy Lambert ( R ).
After serving as a sergeant in World War II, Jim Coffey came to Vero Beach in 1946 to launch a farming career with his father. Changing direction in 1955, he began operating service stations that focused on providing outstanding customer service. He also owned the Blue Crystal Ice and Water Company, a four-county franchise. He eventually owned 23 stations with 175 employees. Under his management, the Courtesy House service station on Miracle Mile in Vero Beach was recognized by Time Magazine as the world’s first "out-of-this-world” service station.
Recognized for his leadership and communication skills, Jim Coffey became President of Earman Oil Company, sharing best practices and his management philosophy through 47 speaking engagements around the nation for the National Oil Jobber Council. With imagination and insight, he built and opened the Courtesy House truck stop in Vero Beach, which featured a comprehensive training facility and program for all Union Oil truck stops and other stations throughout the nation.
"Always demonstrating entrepreneurial vision, a tireless work ethic, and a spirit of community service, Jim Coffey is one of our most outstanding Indian River County residents,” said Dr. Edwin R. Massey, IRSC President. "For over 60 years, he has played an important role in the establishment of highly successful businesses and development of property throughout the County. We are thankful for his initiative in the acquisition of the land for the Mueller Campus and his support of educational opportunities.”
Jim Coffey was a member of the IRSC Board of Trustees from 1971 to 1977 and played an important role in the acquisition of the land for the Mueller Campus, growth of IRSC programs and establishment of branch campuses. He was a member of the Indian River Chamber of Commerce for many years, serving as its president for one term. He also helped to launch the 100 Club to benefit families of fallen public safety professionals and hosted many golf tournaments and other community fund-raising projects.
Always enthusiastic and energetic, he began his third career in 1984 as a realtor, selling millions of dollars of property his first year, purchasing property on I-95 and Rt. 60, developing the outlet mall, restaurants and hotels.
Entrepreneurs of the Year
Entrepreneur of the Year Award
We invite you to submit a nomination for the Entrepreneur of the Year Award. This award honors outstanding business founders or leaders who exemplify exeptional commitment to the free enterprise system. Recipients have records of community service and "giving back" to the community, have strong leadership skills, and have made a positive impact in both their personal and professional lives. Previous recipients of this prestigous award are listed above.
Indicates required fields
Spotlights
Brown Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship Dedication
Congratulations to Jim Coffey - 2012 Entrepreneur of the Year
Register Now! Alumni & Friends Golf Tournament
Join the IRSC Alumni Association
Apply Now Online For 2012-2013 Scholarships
