Palm Beach Gardens Lving - January 2026

J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 6 | PA L M B E A C H G A R D E N S L I V I N G 7 founded and endowed the Dr. Barbara Carey-Shuler Student Success Center at Palm Beach State College , dedicated to creating pathways for upward mobility and improving retention among underrepresented students. Funding more than $1 million in contributions to scholarships and college readiness programs for 700 students, Dr. Carey-Shuler received a warm ovation at the Gala, sharing what drives her commitment to Palm Beach State. “I offered my support to PBSC because when I heard that they respected and valued any student who walks through their door, that touched me spiritually and emotionally.” South African professional golfer Gary Player is one of only six in the game’s history to capture the career grand slam, winning all four of golf’s Major Championships. Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame’s 1974 inaugural class, Gary has more tournament victories than any professional golfer alive today, earning more national titles than fellow golf legends Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, and Arnold Palmer combined. Called the International Ambassador of Golf, Gary has authored or co- written 37 books on golf instruction, design, philosophy, motivation, and fitness, and has received numerous commendations, including the Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award, the PGA Tour's Lifetime Achievement Award, and the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom. The Emerald Torch Awards also celebrated the incredible impact of the Gary and Vivienne Player Foundation , an organization driven by love, hope, and a commitment to change lives. Founded by Gary and his late wife Vivienne, the GVPF strives to lift children out of poverty through targeted education, health, and housing initiatives. During the past three years, the GVPF has touched the lives of 40,000 children, reflecting how vital its work is to families in our community. As Gary Player was celebrating his 90th birthday in South Africa, Jonathan Brown, Ambassador to the Gary and Vivienne Player Foundation, accepted the award on behalf of Gary, who shared his appreciation in a heartfelt video address. “I’ve received many awards in my life, and I’ve always received these with great gratitude, but particularly when it involves education, which is where my focus is. Institutions like Palm Beach State College show that through education, we can build stronger communities and make the world a better place.” SoFi Center at the College’s Palm Beach Gardens campus provided the perfect backdrop to recognize outstanding achievement. And, as the home to the new innovative professional golf league TGL, the SoFi venue mirrors Palm Beach State’s extensive use of cutting- edge educational technologies and innovative programming. By training students with the most up-to-date advancements for medical imaging, cybersecurity, engineering technology, and biotechnology, Palm Beach State is sustaining a classroom-to-career pipeline of highly qualified professionals to essential industries throughout Palm Beach County. The Emerald Torch Awards Gala exuded extraordinary energy fueled by exceptional, visionary leaders meeting at the intersection of inspiration and impact. On this night expertise, passion, and devotion converged amongst true agents of change who are transforming lives and advancing our community with a shared commitment to education. PBSC President Ava Parker and PBSC Leadership Ricky Wade, PBSC Foundation Board Chair PBSC Emerald Torch Awards