Achieva Credit Union Presents Historic $1 Million Gift to SPC

7/2/2026

As St. Petersburg College prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2027 and Achieva Credit Union marks 90 years of service this year, the two institutions are reflecting on a partnership rooted in a shared commitment to education, opportunity and community impact. That partnership is being strengthened through Achieva's $1 million investment in SPC's Pathway to Better Centennial Campaign, the milestone gift that pushes the campaign beyond its historic $100 million fundraising goal.

A Shared History of Service

Their histories have been intertwined from the beginning.

In 1937, seven Pinellas County teachers were denied loans by a local bank, so they came together to create a financial institution of their own. With just $99.25 and office space provided at St. Petersburg Junior College (SPJC), they established what would eventually become Achieva Credit Union. What started as a small credit union serving educators has grown into one of Florida's largest credit unions, serving more than 214,000 members with $3.1 billion in assets and 26 branches across the state.

For nearly nine decades, Achieva and SPC have grown alongside one another, helping generations of residents build brighter futures through education, financial empowerment and workforce development.

"Achieva Credit Union and St. Petersburg College have shared a remarkable partnership since Achieva was founded on our campus nearly 90 years ago. This extraordinary gift reflects our shared commitment to expanding opportunity and strengthening our community," said SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams

The milestone reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to education and creating opportunities for future generations.

"Surpassing our historic $100 million Centennial Campaign goal is an incredible milestone, but what matters most is the impact it will have on our students. This investment will open doors to education, strengthen our workforce and help transform lives for generations to come. We are deeply grateful to Achieva, our Foundation Board, our trustees and everyone who helped make this moment possible, and we hope it inspires others to join us in creating better opportunities, better lives and stronger communities."

Creating Opportunities for Students

Eno Mucaj

The impact of the partnership is already changing lives for students like Eno Mucaj, who immigrated to the United States from Albania with his family at age 12 and chose SPC because it offered an affordable path to achieving his goals. After earning his Associate in Arts degree, Mucaj is now pursuing a bachelor's degree in paralegal studies while completing an internship with Achieva Credit Union.

"When I came to the United States, I didn't know much English, but my family always believed education could change our lives. St. Petersburg College allowed me to earn my degree and pursue my career goals, and my internship at Achieva has allowed me to gain valuable professional experience while continuing my education,” he said. “When I look at this partnership, I don't just see a donation; I see opportunities for students like me to build a better future. I'm grateful to both SPC and Achieva for believing in students and investing in our success."

Investing in the Future

Today, both institutions continue to play a vital role in the growth and success of Pinellas County and the Tampa Bay region. SPC prepares students for in-demand careers through academic programs, workforce training and industry partnerships, while Achieva helps individuals and families achieve financial stability and long-term success.

Together, the organizations support initiatives that promote financial literacy, workforce readiness and community engagement, creating pathways that help students transition from education to meaningful careers.

"Education has the power to change lives, and that's why our partnership with St. Petersburg College is so meaningful," said Eric Jenkins, President and CEO of Achieva Credit Union. "We share a belief that every student deserves the opportunity to build a better future, and this investment is about opening doors. As Achieva celebrates 90 years of serving our community, we're proud to help SPC prepare the next generation of leaders and create opportunities that will benefit our region for years to come."

Looking Ahead

The partnership serves as a reminder that lasting community impact is built through collaboration. While both organizations have evolved significantly since their founding, their missions remain closely aligned: expanding opportunity, supporting lifelong learning and helping individuals achieve their goals.

"Reaching this historic milestone is a testament to the generosity of partners like Achieva Credit Union," said Jesse Turtle, Executive Director of the SPC Foundation. "Every gift expands opportunities for our students and strengthens our community. We hope this achievement inspires others to join us as we continue building the future of St. Petersburg College."

As Achieva celebrates 90 years and SPC looks ahead to its centennial year, both institutions remain focused on preparing the next generation of leaders, supporting local employers and investing in the continued success of the communities they call home.