[{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"1570|1379|1378|2113|1325|2210|2338","Content":"","Date":"2026-09-14T15:47:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/spc-day-2026-midtown.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"group shot of SPC Day celebrants including SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams"},"Headline":"SPC’s 99th Anniversary Brings Titans Together for Music, History and Community","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"foundation/foundation-newsroom/spcs-99th-anniversary-brings-titans-together-for-music-history-and-community","value":{},"title":"SPC’s 99th Anniversary Brings Titans Together for Music, History and Community","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"SPC marked its 99th year with a vibrant block party that brought generations of Titans and community members together for music, food, fun and a look ahead to the College’s 2027 centennial.","Teaser":"SPC marked its 99th year with a vibrant block party that brought generations of Titans and community members together for music, food, fun and a look ahead to the College’s 2027 centennial.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/spc-day-2026-midtown-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"group shot of SPC Day celebrants including SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams"},"Title":"SPC’s 99th Anniversary Brings Titans Together for Music, History and Community"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"2312|1570|1379|1378|2433|2210|2338","Content":"","Date":"2026-08-26T13:59:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/SPCDay-2026.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"white, blue and gold balloons surrounding a big gold star and a whilte balloon with the words SPC Day"},"Headline":"Community Block Party Celebrates the College's 99th Birthday","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"foundation/foundation-newsroom/community-block-party-celebrates-the-colleges-99th-birthday","value":{},"title":"Community Block Party Celebrates the College's 99th Birthday","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"SPC Day brings students, alumni and neighbors together in the historic Deuces Corridor.","Teaser":"SPC Day brings students, alumni and neighbors together in the historic Deuces Corridor.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/SPCDay-2026-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"white, blue and gold balloons surrounding a big gold star and a whilte balloon with the words SPC Day"},"Title":"Community Block Party Celebrates the College's 99th Birthday"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"1377|1379|1325","Content":"","Date":"2026-07-14T19:14:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/DAmicoJeff-bench.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"baseball player and SPC alum Jeff D’Amico sitting at a concrete table wearing a blue shirt with his hands folded"},"Headline":"Former MLB Pitcher Jeff D’Amico Gets a New Start Thanks to SPC","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"foundation/foundation-newsroom/former-mlb-pitcher-jeff-damico-gets-a-new-start-thanks-to-spc","value":{},"title":"Former MLB Pitcher Jeff D’Amico Gets a New Start Thanks to SPC","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"After earning his Associate in Arts, D’Amico received his Bachelor of Applied Science in Technology Development and Management in 2024.","Teaser":"After earning his Associate in Arts, D’Amico received his Bachelor of Applied Science in Technology Development and Management in 2024.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/DAmicoJeff-bench-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"baseball player and SPC alum Jeff D’Amico sitting at a concrete table wearing a blue shirt with his hands folded"},"Title":"Former MLB Pitcher Jeff D’Amico Gets a New Start Thanks to SPC"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"2114|1379|2433|2210|2338","Content":"","Date":"2026-07-02T12:43:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Achieva-check-presentation.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"group of people in business attire hilding a giant check"},"Headline":"Achieva Credit Union Presents Historic $1 Million Gift to SPC","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"foundation/foundation-newsroom/achieva-credit-union-presents-historic-1-million-gift-to-spc","value":{},"title":"Achieva Credit Union Presents Historic $1 Million Gift to SPC","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"A Partnership Built on Community: SPC and Achieva Credit Union Share Nearly a Century of Service","Teaser":"A Partnership Built on Community: SPC and Achieva Credit Union Share Nearly a Century of Service","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Achieva-check-presentation-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"group of people in business attire hilding a giant check"},"Title":"Achieva Credit Union Presents Historic $1 Million Gift to SPC"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"1379|1378","Content":"","Date":"2026-06-29T12:54:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/jabil-check-presenation-032426.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"A group of people from Jabil and St. Petersbug College holding a giant donation check"},"Headline":"Jabil Gift Opens Doors to Manufacturing Careers","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"foundation/foundation-newsroom/jabil-gift-opens-doors-to-manufacturing-careers","value":{},"title":"Jabil Gift Opens Doors to Manufacturing Careers","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Investment supports workforce development, scholarships and career pathways in Tampa Bay","Teaser":"Investment supports workforce development, scholarships and career pathways in Tampa Bay","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/jabil-check-presenation-032426-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"A group of people from Jabil and St. Petersbug College holding a giant donation check"},"Title":"Jabil Gift Opens Doors to Manufacturing Careers"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"2114|1379|1378|2402|2210|2338","Content":"<p>As St. Petersburg College approaches its <a href="/pathway-to-better" title="Pathway To Better">100th anniversary</a> in 2027, the College continues to build on its legacy as a cornerstone of workforce education in the Tampa Bay region — preparing students for in-demand careers while strengthening the community and workforce pipeline.</p><p>That commitment is reflected in SPC’s partnership with Duke Energy, which is helping create career pathways for students pursuing high-demand jobs in the electrical utility industry.</p><p>Through the Duke Energy Foundation, SPC received a $50,000 grant to support the College’s Electrical Lineworker Training Program, which prepares students for entry-level utility careers through industry-recognized training and hands-on experience.</p><p>“Our partnership with Duke Energy is a powerful investment in the future of our region, creating a pipeline of highly skilled, job-ready lineworkers,” said Belinthia Berry, Dean of Workforce Development at SPC. “By aligning training with industry needs, we are creating real opportunities for students to step into rewarding careers while helping meet the workforce demands of our growing communities.”</p><h2>A Legacy of Workforce Education</h2><p>For nearly a century, SPC has helped students build better futures while meeting the workforce needs of the region. From healthcare and public safety to advanced manufacturing and skilled trades, the College prepares students for careers that strengthen families, communities and the local economy.</p><p>The Electrical Lineworker Training Program is one example of that mission in action, connecting students to hands-on training that leads directly to employment and long-term opportunity.</p><h2>Training Students for Essential Careers</h2><p>SPC’s Electrical Lineworker Training Program gives students the technical knowledge, safety training and field experience needed to pursue careers in the energy sector.</p><p>For Chase Georgevich, now a Lineworker Apprentice with Duke Energy Florida, the program provided the preparation needed to launch his career.</p><p>“The Electrical Lineworker Training Program at St. Petersburg College gave me invaluable hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn from some of the best instructors in the industry,” Georgevich said. “From the classroom to the training facility, the program was a constant test of my discipline and dedication, but I couldn’t be prouder of myself for sticking it out, making the most of every day and ultimately landing a job with such a well-respected company. I love what I do, the people I get to work with and the feeling of knowing we’re helping keep the lights on for our friends and neighbors right here in the community we call home.”</p><p>His story reflects the impact of workforce programs designed to connect students directly to meaningful employment and long-term career growth.</p><h2>A Strong Industry Partnership</h2><p>SPC is one of five Florida colleges selected to receive support from the Duke Energy Foundation, alongside Lake-Sumter State College, Seminole State College of Florida, Valencia College and South Florida State College.</p><p>Between 2022 and 2025, Duke Energy hired more than 100 graduates from partner college lineworker programs, underscoring both the value of these training pathways and the growing demand for skilled utility workers.</p><p>“Workforce partnerships like this are critical to student success and regional economic growth,” said Berry. “When employers invest in training programs, students gain access to high-quality instruction, industry-aligned equipment and direct pathways into the workforce. That’s exactly the kind of opportunity we want to continue building at SPC.”</p><p>Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president, emphasized the importance of preparing the next generation of utility professionals.</p><p>“At Duke Energy, planning for the future means investing in people. Our partnership with SPC and support of the Electrical Lineworker Training Program equips students with the skills and experience to succeed while building a strong talent pipeline for our industry,” said Seixas. “I’m grateful to the instructors and administrators leading this program and hopeful that graduates will join our team, helping us deliver safe, reliable power to more than 2 million customers for years to come.”</p><h2>Strengthening the Community and Workforce Pipeline</h2><p>As demand for skilled utility workers grows, partnerships like this ensure a strong pipeline of trained professionals ready to serve local communities. Employment for electrical lineworkers is projected to grow 7% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. As SPC approaches its centennial, the College remains committed to expanding opportunity, supporting employers, and building a stronger regional workforce.</p><p>Through its partnership with Duke Energy, SPC is preparing the next generation of lineworkers while helping power Florida’s future.</p>","Date":"2026-04-15T15:02:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/duke-spc1.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"a lineworker training at SPC wearing a neon yellow shirt and orange helmet observing another lineworker also in a yellow shirt and orange helmet"},"Headline":"Duke Energy, SPC Strengthen Workforce Pipeline for Future Lineworkers","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/duke-energy-spc-strengthen-workforce-pipeline-for-future-lineworkers","value":{},"title":"Duke Energy, SPC Strengthen Workforce Pipeline for Future Lineworkers","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"The partnership reinforces the College’s role as a cornerstone of workforce education.","Teaser":"The partnership reinforces the College’s role as a cornerstone of workforce education.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/duke-spc1-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"a lineworker training at SPC wearing a neon yellow shirt and orange helmet observing another lineworker also in a yellow shirt and orange helmet"},"Title":"Duke Energy, SPC Strengthen Workforce Pipeline for Future Lineworkers"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"1381|2114|1570|1379|1378|2338","Content":"","Date":"2026-03-12T20:04:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/foundation-celina.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"St. Petersburg College student and basketball player Celine Forine speaking at donors and scholars luncheon"},"Headline":"26th Annual Donors and Scholars Luncheon Celebrates Generosity","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"foundation/foundation-newsroom/26th-annual-donors-and-scholars-luncheon-celebrates-generosity","value":{},"title":"26th Annual Donors and Scholars Luncheon Celebrates Generosity","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"","Teaser":"This annual event celebrates the donors who contributed to students' success with financial support and the students who were recipients.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/foundation-celina-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"St. Petersburg College student and basketball player Celine Forine speaking at donors and scholars luncheon"},"Title":"26th Annual Donors and Scholars Luncheon Celebrates Generosity"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"1697|1380|1379","Content":"","Date":"2026-02-04T14:21:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Foundation/Newsroom/Helen-Gilbart-a_8907.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"portrait of Helen Gilbart in a blue shirt"},"Headline":"Helen Gilbart: Her Final Gift, Her Forever Impact","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"foundation/foundation-newsroom/helen-gilbart-her-final-gift-her-forever-impact","value":{},"title":"Helen Gilbart: Her Final Gift, Her Forever Impact","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"","Teaser":"","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Foundation/Newsroom/Helen-Gilbart-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"portrait of Helen Gilbart in a blue shirt"},"Title":"Helen Gilbart: Her Final Gift, Her Forever Impact"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"1697|1380|2114|1379","Content":"","Date":"2026-01-14T05:00:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Foundation/Newsroom/Carroll-Mike-cover.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"From left: Jesse Turtle, SPC Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the Foundation, SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams, and Mike Carroll, SPC Foundation board member and donor"},"Headline":"Mike Carroll: A Legacy Lifting Others","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"foundation/foundation-newsroom/mike-carroll-a-legacy-lifting-others","value":{},"title":"Mike Carroll: A Legacy Lifting Others","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"SPC’s roots run deep in philanthropist and board leader Mike Carroll.","Teaser":"","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Foundation/Newsroom/carroll-mike-cover-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"From left: Jesse Turtle, SPC Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the Foundation, SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams, and Mike Carroll, SPC Foundation board member and donor"},"Title":"Mike Carroll: A Legacy Lifting Others"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"1380|2114|2433|2210|2338","Content":"","Date":"2025-09-16T04:00:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/SPC-Day-2025.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"group shot of SPC board of trustees members and foundation partners"},"Headline":"98 Years Strong: SPC Marks Anniversary with Fourth Annual SPC Day","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"foundation/foundation-newsroom/98-years-strong-spc-marks-anniversary-with-fourth-annual-spc-day","value":{},"title":"98 Years Strong: SPC Marks Anniversary with Fourth Annual SPC Day","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Celebration at Tarpon Springs Campus recognizes the college’s nearly century-long impact in Pinellas County.","Teaser":"Celebration at Tarpon Springs Campus recognizes the college’s nearly century-long impact in Pinellas County.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/SPC-Day-2025-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"group shot of SPC board of trustees members and foundation partners"},"Title":"98 Years Strong: SPC Marks Anniversary with Fourth Annual SPC Day"},{"Author":"105","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"","Content":"","Date":"2023-10-30T13:28:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":false,"src":"","w":"","h":"","alt":""},"Headline":"","Link":{"isValid":false,"url":"","value":{},"title":"","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"","Teaser":"","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":false,"src":"","w":"","h":"","alt":""},"Title":""}]