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Treasure Coast Hospice names new philanthropic leader
STUART– Treasure Coast Hospice has named Agnes Palmer, CFRE, as Executive Director of Treasure Coast Hospice Foundation. The newly created position reflects the organization’s commitment to the vital role philanthropy plays in providing quality hospice care and grief support services to patients and families in Martin, St. Lucie, and Okeechobee counties.
“Agnes Palmer brings exceptional fundraising experience and a deep commitment to our mission and the patients and families we serve,” said Treasure Coast Hospice CEO Jackie Kendrick, CHPCA. “This well-deserved promotion reflects Agnes’ proven ability to build meaningful relationships and inspire support for the compassionate care programs and services that enhance the patient experience. I am confident that she will successfully guide the Foundation’s growth, enabling our organization to further strengthen its impact across the community. “
As Executive Director, Palmer provides strategic direction for the Treasure Coast Hospice Foundation, working with senior leadership to deepen the impact that philanthropy plays in supporting the compassionate care programs and services offered by Treasure Coast Hospice. Her responsibilities include developing and executing a comprehensive fundraising program, cultivating key donor relationships, and ensuring alignment between the activities of the Foundation and the strategic priorities of the organization.
“Every gift and act of generosity helps our organization to provide comfort and dignity to our patients and families,” said Palmer. “I am honored to accept this expanded role and look forward to building on the strong relationships and community support that make our mission possible.”
Palmer began her career with Treasure Coast Hospice in 2017, serving in progressive leadership roles with the Treasure Coast Hospice Foundation. Most recently, as Foundation Director, she guided her team to significant milestones. Under her direction, the Treasure Coast Hospice Foundation established the Marlene K. Filer Celebrities Fore Kids Pediatric Hardship Endowment, created a Veteran Care Fund to assist veteran patients and families in financial need, and achieved sustained growth in event revenue and attendance. Palmer has also been instrumental in engaging community partners in the fulfillment of patients’ end-of-life wishes.
Education Foundation of Martin County welcomes new board members
STUART — The Education Foundation of Martin County is pleased to announce the addition of two new board members: Dr. JoAnna Oster of Family Ministries at Stuart Congregational Church and a professor at Liberty University, and Steve Simon, managing partner of Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa, injury lawyers.
Oster, who has a doctoral degree in educational leadership, has been in education for more than 20 years beginning as a fourth grade teacher and currently a professor and dissertation chair at Liberty University. She also works as the director of family ministries with youth and families at Stuart Congregational Church.
“This community is so important to support education,” said Oster. “Even over 20 years ago, I completed a principal internship with Florida Atlantic University at Port Salerno Elementary School. This area was the place to be for education. Now, all of these years later, it still is! Get involved and be a part of the next generation of excellence.”
Simon’s law firm prides itself on giving back to the community and supporting organizations that make a meaningful difference locally.
“I have a personal passion for education,” said Simon. “My wife was a teacher for more than 30 years and I have seen firsthand the impact that strong educational support can have on students and educators. I look forward to contributing my legal expertise, experience and community connections to help further the Foundation’s mission of enriching and enhancing educational opportunities and support for students and teachers in the Martin County public school system.
For information about the Education Foundation of Martin County, visit the website, www.EducationFoundationMC.org or call the office at 772-600-8062.
UF/IFAS director of fundraising initiatives to support animal sciences
The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) today announces the appointment of Mary Ann Hooks as Director of Animal Sciences Fundraising Initiatives, effective June 15, 2026.
This new role will lead fundraising and stakeholder engagement to strengthen external partnerships advancing UF/IFAS Animal Sciences.
“Mary Ann Hooks brings a strong record of engagement, stakeholder relations, and institutional advocacy that will be instrumental as we expand our impact across Animal Sciences,” said Scott Angle, UF/IFAS senior vice president of agriculture and natural resources. “She brings a strong understanding of our stakeholders and a commitment to advancing our land-grant mission.”
Hooks previously served as Director of UF/IFAS Government Affairs where she secured funding for science-based initiatives, supporting agricultural research, education and Extension priorities. This strongly positions her to lead the development and expansion of fundraising efforts and long-term growth strategies for UF/IFAS Animal Sciences.
“I’m excited to help build a Meat Science Lab that will serve as a valuable resource for the livestock industry while training the next generation workforce that will support its future,” said Hooks.
The upgraded facility will be designed to address critical infrastructure, and equipment needs, strengthen food safety compliance, expand workforce development opportunities, and serve as a regional hub for applied agricultural research supporting Florida’s livestock industry. This will better support hands-on student training, applied research and industry collaboration across the UF/IFAS Animal Sciences programs.
For more information, please see the attached news release. To interview Mary Ann Hooks, please contact me, Lourdes Mederos at rodriguezl@ufl.edu or UF/IFAS Public Relations Specialist Jamie Groh at jamieg@ufl.edu.