South University, West Palm Beach: Celebrating Business of the Year at Giraffe Awards

South University, West Palm Beach: Honored as Business of the Year

In a remarkable celebration of leadership and community service, South University, located in West Palm Beach, Florida, earned the prestigious title of Business of the Year at the 30th Annual Giraffe Awards. This event, hosted by the Women's Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County, serves as a platform to honor those who have made significant contributions to empowering women and uplifting communities. With a history of advocating for women's issues, the Giraffe Awards stand as a proud testament to the impact of collective effort in achieving tangible results.

Held on March 24, 2026, at the renowned Kravis Center's Cohen Pavilion, the Giraffe Awards brought together over 350 guests and showcased a record-breaking number of 77 nominees, celebrating three decades of commitment to women's leadership across Palm Beach County. The energy in the room was palpable, with attendees uniting to recognize the significant strides made by individuals and organizations in the pursuit of equality and business excellence.

The award reflects South University's ongoing dedication to serving students and the broader community. Benjamin J. DeGweck, CEO and Chancellor, expressed his pride in accepting the award, highlighting the campus team's unwavering commitment to creating opportunities and fostering careers. “We exist to serve our students and the communities around us,” DeGweck stated, “and this honor affirms that our team is doing exactly that.” The remark resonates with the core mission of South University, which is deeply rooted in educational service to its community.

An important aspect of the Giraffe Awards is recognizing local leaders who demonstrate potential and passion. Nickeshia Bullock, the proud Campus Director and Dean of Academic Affairs Operations at South University, was among those celebrated in the Rising Star category this year. Her leadership qualities and commitment to both her campus and the surrounding community serve as an example of the powerful role women play in leadership today. Bullock expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “This recognition belongs to the entire West Palm Beach campus team. Every day, our faculty and staff show up for our students and for this community.”

The success of South University is largely attributed to the faculty and staff, whose dedication to student support and community involvement has made a substantial difference throughout Palm Beach County. The Business of the Year designation acknowledges their accomplishments and commitment.

Within the broader context, this year's Giraffe Awards coincide with Women's History Month, adding even greater significance to the celebrations of women-led initiatives and leadership. The event highlighted not only individual achievements but also the communal efforts that contribute to creating meaningful change.

Based in West Palm Beach, South University has built a strong reputation for its educational programs, clinical partnerships, and continuous engagement with the local community. Founded in 1899, South University has evolved from a single location in Savannah, Georgia, to a thriving institution with over 10,000 students across 11 campuses and online offerings. The university is dedicated to providing comprehensive programs across various fields, including healthcare, business, and technology.

In conclusion, South University, West Palm Beach's recognition as Business of the Year at the Giraffe Awards exemplifies the power of commitment to community and women's empowerment. The institution’s ongoing efforts reflect a deep-rooted belief in the ability of education to empower individuals and transform lives, reinforcing its mission for years to come. The 30th Annual Giraffe Awards not only celebrated achievements but also inspired participants to continue their invaluable work towards building a more equitable future.