MIAMI SHORES \u2014 Barry University has received a $100,000 grant from the Moss Foundation to advance emergency services education within its College of Health Professions and Medical Sciences.<\/p>\n
The gift was formally presented at a check presentation ceremony June 22 on the Barry University campus.<\/p>\n
The funding will support hands-on training resources, equipment and programming across Barry University\u2019s EMS Academy, Fire Academy and bachelor\u2019s degree in emergency management program.<\/p>\n
It will also help offset training-related costs for students pursuing careers in emergency medical services, fire service and emergency management.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Moss Foundation has made a significant impact across South Florida through investments that create opportunities and improve the quality of life in our communities,\u201d said Mike Allen, president of Barry University. \u201cThis partnership strengthens our ability to prepare the next generation of first responders, and we are deeply grateful for the Foundation\u2019s confidence in our students and our mission.\u201d<\/p>\n
In recognition of the gift, Barry University has named its new training fire truck in honor of the Moss Foundation. The truck will be used in hands-on training for students in the Fire Academy.<\/p>\n
Barry University\u2019s emergency services programs have expanded significantly in recent years, with enrollment growing more than 60% annually since 2023. The university expects to graduate more than 1,130 emergency services professionals in 2026, with projections reaching up to 1,300 the following year.<\/p>\n
Among the university\u2019s most impactful initiatives is a high school EMT program that allows students to begin professional emergency medical training before graduation.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe EMS Academy and Fire Academy are built on a simple principle: students must train on the same equipment, under the same conditions and with the same expectations they will encounter in the field,\u201d said Frank Galgano, director of emergency management programs at Barry University. \u201cGifts like this one allow us to continue enhancing the resources, technology, and hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for the realities of emergency response, and we are proud of the results our graduates achieve.\u201d<\/p>\n
As South Florida\u2019s largest private Catholic institution of higher learning, Barry University is preparing students for the future workforce by offering them more than 100 degree programs in a variety of disciplines and giving them the tools and real-world experience that transform concepts into impact.<\/p>\n