Palm Beach State College Announces Richard and Robin Bernstein as Honorary Co-Chairs of the 2026 Emerald Torch Awards Gala

Palm Beach State College is pleased to announce that Richard S. Bernstein and Ambassador Robin S. Bernstein (ret.) will serve as Honorary Co-Chairs of the 2026 Emerald Torch Awards Gala.

Richard S. Bernstein is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Richard S. Bernstein & Associates, Inc., where he has built a distinguished career in insurance and financial services spanning more than 60 years. A PBSC alumnus, he graduated from Palm Beach Junior College in 1962 with an Associate in Arts degree and subsequently from the University of Miami in 1964 with a Bachelor of Arts in Finance.

He has been nationally recognized for his knowledge, innovation, and expertise in serving high-net-worth families, business leaders, and charitable organizations.

Ambassador Robin S. Bernstein (ret.) served as U.S. Ambassador to the Dominican Republic from 2018 to 2021 and is President of Richard S. Bernstein and Associates, Inc. and Manager of Rbern Ventures, LLC, a global business consulting firm. Her background spans more than four decades in business, government, and the nonprofit sector. She has been recognized for her leadership, diplomacy, community engagement, and service to Palm Beach County and her country. 

The Emerald Torch Awards Gala brings together prominent community leaders and alumni in support of Palm Beach State College students and scholarships. The role of honorary Co-Chair highlights the significance of the event’s mission by providing leadership, visibility and advocacy.

“It’s a privilege to have Richard and Robin Bernstein serve as honorary co-chairs of this year’s Emerald Torch Awards Gala,” said PBSC President Ava L. Parker, JD. “Richard’s remarkable career and success as a Palm Beach State alumnus demonstrate the life-changing opportunities a PBSC education can create. Together, Richard and Robin have made an extraordinary impact through their leadership, generosity, and commitment to our community. We’re grateful for their partnership in supporting our students and expanding educational opportunity.”

The Emerald Torch Awards Gala will be held on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, at 6 p.m. at The Eau Palm Beach Resort and Spa in Manalapan, Fla. At the event, an Honorary Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to philanthropist Stephen M. Ross, Chairman of Related Companies, a global real estate development firm, and principal owner of the Miami Dolphins.