[{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2338|2210|1314","Content":"<p>The historic <a href="https://mypalladium.org/" target="_blank" title="Palladium Theater at St. Petersburg College" rel="noopener">Palladium Theater at St. Petersburg College</a> is poised for a major transformation after securing a $2.5 million grant from the <a href="https://www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/partners/pinellas-county-tdc" target="_blank" title="Pinellas Tourist Development Council" rel="noopener">Pinellas County Tourist Development Council</a>. The funding, approved unanimously by county commissioners, completes the $13 million renovation plan for the 815-seat venue, which has long served as an affordable community hub for arts and performances in downtown St. Petersburg.</p><p>The renovations will modernize seating, sightlines and acoustics, along with additional technological and cosmetic upgrades.</p><p>Originally built in 1925 as a Christian Science church and listed on the Register of Historic Places, The Palladium became a theater in 1998 and has been operated by SPC since 2007. The venue hosts a range of performances, from opera and ballet to community events, generating over $14 million annually in local economic impact.</p><p>Palladium Executive Director Paul Wilborn emphasized the importance of the project: “We’ve been very successful, but we were limited in that we were a church with a stage, essentially. People didn’t like the seats, people didn’t like the sound when it was heavily amplified … we’re addressing all that.”</p><p>The renovation will replace all 850 seats with vintage-style yet comfortable options, adjust the seating slope for improved sightlines and upgrade lighting and acoustics. The project will also enhance SPC’s performing arts technology program, allowing students hands-on experience with new professional audio systems, such as the Yamaha Rivage PM5, DM7 and DM3.</p><p>Construction is expected to begin in July 2026, with the theater closing for approximately one year. Wilborn noted that additional elements, such as raising the stage and adding an acoustic orchestra shell, may be added as funding allows.</p><p>“Because we’re part of a state college, you can’t just build something on pledges,” said Wilborn. “This county grant allowed us to greenlight the project.”</p><p>Once complete, the Palladium will stand as a premier performing arts venue in the Tampa Bay area while continuing its educational and community mission, blending historic charm with modern amenities for audiences and performers alike.</p>","Date":"2025-11-21T16:39:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Palladium-rendering.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"illustration of an artist's rendering of the interior of the Palladium renovation "},"Headline":"Palladium Theater Secures $2.5M Grant for Major Renovation","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/palladium-theater-secures-25m-grant-for-major-renovation","value":{},"title":"Palladium Theater Secures $2.5M Grant for Major Renovation","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Pinellas County Tourist Development Council awards Palladium Theater $2.5 Million renovation grant","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Palladium-rendering-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"illustration of an artist's rendering of the interior of the Palladium renovation "},"Title":"Palladium Theater Secures $2.5M Grant for Major Renovation"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2338|2402|2115|2210","Content":"<p>St. Petersburg College celebrated the seventh graduating class of its <a href="https://spcollege.augusoft.net/index.cfm?method=ClassListing.ClassListingDisplay&int_category_id=31&int_sub_category_id=394&int_catalog_id=&__hstc=162944227.03a813e0ce5aaf634bc50b080eac7820.1763570691785.1763574134460.1763582675239.3&__hssc=162944227.4.1763582675239&__hsfp=3440324983" target="_blank" title="Lineworker Program" rel="noopener">Electrical Lineworker Program</a> on Oct. 31 at the Allstate Center, honoring 17 new graduates who completed the rigorous 14-week training.</p><p>Offered in partnership with Duke Energy, Powertown Line Construction, Pinellas County Urban League and Pinellas Technical College, the program prepares students for essential careers in the electric utility industry. Graduates earn multiple industry certifications, including CDL Class A, OSHA 10, CPR, First Aid and Rescue Operations, giving them the skills and credentials to enter one of Florida’s most in-demand career fields.</p><p>SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams congratulated the graduates and thanked their families and program partners for their commitment and support.</p><p>“Our commitment is to educate students so they can secure better jobs, live better lives and create better communities,” said Williams. “This partnership embodies that mission in action, providing real opportunities for our students while strengthening the local workforce. I want to thank our partners for their leadership and unwavering commitment to workforce development and to changing lives.”</p><p>She also praised the graduates for their determination and resilience:</p><p>“Graduates, you are amazing. You are rock stars,” she said. “Thank you for your courage, your resilience and for pushing through when things got hard. You are the reason we do what we do.”</p><p>Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida President, spoke to the graduates about the legacy of the lineworker profession and the deep connection between Duke Energy and St. Petersburg College.</p><div class="float-right"><p><img src="Images/Newsroom/Rebecca-Rodriguez.jpg" alt="Lineworker Graduate Rebecca Rodriguez" width="255" height="360" /><span>Rebecca Rodriguez</span></p></div><p>“This is a special moment,” Seixas said. “The men and women who complete this program represent the next generation of lineworkers, the heart of our company and our industry. This program started here at St. Petersburg College and has become a model for other community colleges across Florida. We’re proud of our long history in St. Petersburg and proud to stand alongside SPC in preparing skilled workers who will keep our communities safe and powered.”</p><p>Graduate Rebecca Rodriguez shared how the program transformed her both professionally and personally.</p><p>“I’ve worked in construction for years, but this program challenged me in new ways,” Rodriguez said. “It’s not just about learning technical skills; it’s about building discipline, confidence and perseverance. Our instructors truly care about our success and that made all the difference. I’m proud to show my kids what it means to work hard, push through challenges and know there’s no glass ceiling on what we can achieve.”</p><p>The Electrical Lineworker Program continues to be one of SPC’s most successful workforce training initiatives, helping address a critical need for skilled utility professionals across Florida. Through its strong partnerships and career-focused approach, the program not only changes lives but also powers communities: one graduate at a time.</p>","Date":"2025-11-20T16:39:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Lineworker-graduation-25.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"17 graduates of SPC's lineworker program pose with SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams"},"Headline":"Lineworker Program Graduates Seventh Class","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/lineworker-program-graduates-seventh-class","value":{},"title":"Lineworker Program Graduates Seventh Class","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"SPC celebrates 17 new graduates ready to power Florida’s future workforce","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Lineworker-graduation-25-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"17 graduates of SPC's lineworker program pose with SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams"},"Title":"Lineworker Program Graduates Seventh Class"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2308|2433|2338|2210","Content":"<p><img src="Images/Newsroom/Dr-Williams-2025.jpg" class="float-right" alt="SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams" />The U.S. Department of Education selected St. Petersburg College President Dr. Tonjua Williams to serve on the national Accountability in Higher Education and Access through Demand-Driven Workforce Pell (AHEAD) committee.</p><p>The AHEAD committee will shape how updated Pell Grant policies, including the new Workforce Pell option for short-term, career-focused programs, roll out across the country. Committee members will advise the Department of Education on several key areas, including:</p><ul><li>Determining program eligibility for Workforce Pell</li><li>Strengthening institutional and program accountability</li><li>Aligning regulations with gainful employment and financial-value transparency rules</li><li>Ensuring that Pell dollars help students enter high-demand, good-wage jobs</li></ul><p>“As a community college that leads the state in workforce outcomes, SPC brings real-world insight into what students and employers need,” said Melissa Gonzalez, Government Relations Director at SPC. “President Williams’ voice at the AHEAD table ensures those insights drive federal policy, especially for working adults, low-income learners and career changers.”</p><p>In her national role, Williams will:</p><ul><li>Represent community and state colleges in shaping Workforce Pell policies that support high-demand, short-term training programs without creating unnecessary administrative burdens.</li><li>Advocate for program quality and student outcomes, ensuring Workforce Pell-funded programs meet completion, placement and earnings benchmarks that deliver returns on investment.</li><li>Align Workforce Pell policy with employer needs, drawing on SPC’s strong partnerships in health care, manufacturing, technology and financial services.</li></ul><p>“This is an important moment for America’s workforce system,” said Williams. “Expanding Pell to quality, short-term programs can transform the lives of working adults, parents and dislocated workers, but only if the rules remain clear, fair and focused on outcomes. I’m honored to bring SPC’s experience to this national conversation.”</p><p>The AHEAD committee will meet over several sessions to negotiate proposed regulatory language before the Department of Education finalizes new rules. Each member’s expertise will help ensure the resulting policies strengthen the nation’s workforce pipeline and advance equitable access to higher education.</p>","Date":"2025-11-17T16:08:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/workforce-pell.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"two SPC students looking through a microscope to make precise soldering"},"Headline":"SPC President Appointed to Federal Committee on Pell Grants","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/spc-president-appointed-to-federal-committee-on-pell-grants","value":{},"title":"SPC President Appointed to Federal Committee on Pell Grants","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Appointment places SPC at the forefront of shaping the future of short-term career training across the nation.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/workforce-pell-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"two SPC students looking through a microscope to make precise soldering"},"Title":"SPC President Appointed to Federal Committee on Pell Grants"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"1317|2305|2433|1320|2338|2210","Content":"<p>St. Petersburg College, supported by a Wells Fargo Foundation grant, has successfully concluded its Grow Your Business 8-week program, designed to provide entrepreneurs with the tools, strategies and confidence needed to scale their businesses and achieve measurable growth.</p><p>The program combined business fundamentals with hands-on training in financial planning, market research, AI applications and digital marketing. Participants engaged with a diverse range of experts — including business leaders, legal and tax professionals and SPC faculty — who provided practical, real-world guidance.</p><h3>Program Outcomes:</h3><ul><li>Business Growth: Participants gained an average of eight to 17 new clients and achieved revenue growth ranging from 20 to 40%, with some businesses experiencing peak increases of up to 86%.</li><li>Operational Improvements: Businesses streamlined scheduling, financial management and staff processes with new tools and strategies.</li><li>Skill Development: Entrepreneurs mastered digital marketing, AI applications and business planning, while also strengthening confidence, clarity and communication skills.</li><li>Expansion: Graduates expanded their teams, secured external funding, opened new markets — including Orlando, New York City and online — and built the foundation for future scaling.</li></ul><p>Among those celebrating success were:</p><ul><li>Jennifer Hill, Owner of Peterbrooke Chocolatier – Tampa Carrollwood</li><li>Jennifer Thompson, Founder and CEO of The Moptimist</li><li>Leslie Macao, Vice President of DIMAC Solutions</li></ul><p>With a $500 stipend, participants applied lessons directly to their businesses, funding social media campaigns, website upgrades, premium packaging and employee incentives.</p><p>“At SPC, we believe in equipping entrepreneurs with practical skills and actionable strategies that spark immediate growth,” said Dr. Emmanuel Hernandez-Agosto, Dean at SPC’s College of Business. “This program demonstrates the transformative impact of education and community partnership — helping business owners not only achieve measurable results today but also build the foundation for long-term success.”</p><p>The program was praised as motivating, eye-opening and effective, with participants noting the immediate and lasting impact on both their businesses and personal growth.</p><h3>About the Collaboration</h3><p>The collaboration between Wells Fargo Foundation and St. Petersburg College reflects a shared commitment to economic empowerment, entrepreneurship and community development across the region.</p><p>Learn more about SPC's <a href="/future-students/degrees-training/business/business-administration/business-entrepreneurship-certificate" title="Business Entrepreneurship Certificate">entrepreneurial programs</a>.</p>","Date":"2025-11-12T14:50:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Wells-Fargo-closing-ceremony.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"group of Wells Fargo Foundation Empower Entrepreneurs"},"Headline":"SPC and Wells Fargo Foundation Empower Entrepreneurs Through Grow Your Business Program","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/spc-and-wells-fargo-foundation-empower-entrepreneurs-through-grow-your-business-program","value":{},"title":"SPC and Wells Fargo Foundation Empower Entrepreneurs Through Grow Your Business Program","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Local entrepreneurs gain skills in finance, marketing and AI to drive measurable business growth","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Wells-Fargo-closing-ceremony-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"group of Wells Fargo Foundation Empower Entrepreneurs"},"Title":"SPC and Wells Fargo Foundation Empower Entrepreneurs Through Grow Your Business Program"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"1316|2312|2113|2338|2210","Content":"<p>As the nation honors those who served on Veterans Day, St. Petersburg College is recognized for its continued commitment to veterans. The Florida Department of Education officially designated SPC as a <a href="https://www.fldoe.org/schools/higher-ed/fl-college-system/military/purple-star.stml" target="_blank" title="Florida college purple star award" rel="noopener">Collegiate Purple Star Campus</a>, celebrating the College’s outstanding support for military-affiliated students and their families.</p><p>Established by the Florida Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2023, the Collegiate Purple Star Campus program honors Florida institutions that go above and beyond to create a welcoming and supportive environment for active-duty service members, veterans and their families as they transition to college life.</p><p>“Earning the Purple Star Campus designation is a proud moment for St. Petersburg College’s Veterans Services Department,” said Allison Shenofsky, Veterans Service Coordinator at SPC. “This recognition reflects our deep commitment to supporting those who have served our nation — by providing the resources, respect and community they deserve as they pursue their educational and career goals.”</p><p>To earn this distinction, SPC met all state requirements. This includes:</p><ul><li>Appointing a dedicated military liaison</li><li>Maintaining a comprehensive military support webpage</li><li>Offering a student-led transition program</li><li>Providing professional development for faculty and staff on military-related topics</li><li>Ensuring priority registration for military students and their families</li></ul><p>“This recognition reflects SPC’s unwavering commitment to supporting those who have served our country,” said Dr. Tonjua Williams, President of St. Petersburg College. “Our veterans and military families bring incredible strength, leadership and perspective to our college community. We are honored to offer guidance and a sense of camaraderie as they pursue their education and career goals.”</p><p>The designation will remain in effect for three academic years, after which SPC may reapply to maintain its status. As SPC celebrates this achievement, the recognition aligns with the spirit of Veterans Day: honoring the service, sacrifice and continued contributions of the military community.</p>","Date":"2025-11-10T20:04:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Purple-Star-2025.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"purple logo with the words Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus next to a male in an SPC camo hat soluting"},"Headline":"SPC Honored as a Collegiate Purple Star Campus","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/spc-honored-as-a-collegiate-purple-star-campus","value":{},"title":"SPC Honored as a Collegiate Purple Star Campus","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Designation as Collegiate Purple Star Campus recognizes the SPC’s deep commitment to military students and families.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Purple-Star-2025-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"purple logo with the words Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus next to a male in an SPC camo hat soluting"},"Title":"SPC Honored as a Collegiate Purple Star Campus"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2312|2338|2210","Content":"<p><img src="Images/Newsroom/Spark-Titus-boarding-square.jpg" align="right" alt="titus the titan mascot boarding a SPARK bus" title="Images/Newsroom/Spark-Titus-boarding-square.jpg" width="432" height="326" />Students at St. Petersburg College and Eckerd College now have a faster, greener way to get around town. Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) launched a <a href="https://psta.net/services/spark/" target="_blank" title="PSTA Spark web page" rel="noopener">new SPARK service</a> — a premium, direct route from Eckerd College to Grand Central Station with a key stop at SPC’s Allstate Center.</p><p>The route serves Pinellas County, connecting to other routes including the SunRunner to Downtown St. Petersburg and St. Pete Beach.</p><p>This longstanding partnership aims to improve transportation access for students and staff. PSTA CEO Brad Miller thanked PSTA staff involved in the project, acknowledging how the route improves mobility not only for students and employees, but the whole Pinellas region.</p><p>“This network is about connecting people to opportunity,” said Miller. “We listened to what our riders wanted and built a system that delivers more reliability and convenience without raising fares.”</p><p>The all-electric buses will run every 15 minutes during peak daytime hours from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and, every 30 minutes from 5 a.m. to 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. until midnight. SPC students and staff ride for free with their school IDs.</p><p>With cash and cashless fare options and easy front or rear boarding, PSTA makes commuting simple. The all-electric buses offer an eco-friendly, reliable way for students and staff to get to class — or to explore Pinellas County without spending money on gas.</p>","Date":"2025-11-04T15:25:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Spark-Titus-wide.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"Titus the Titan mascot stands in front of an electric Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority bus"},"Headline":"New SPARK Route Expands Transit Access for SPC Students","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/new-spark-route-expands-transit-access-for-spc-students","value":{},"title":"New SPARK Route Expands Transit Access for SPC Students","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Expanded electric bus service boosts access, sustainability and convenience for students and staff across Pinellas County.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Spark-Titus-wide-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"Titus the Titan mascot stands in front of an electric Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority bus"},"Title":"New SPARK Route Expands Transit Access for SPC Students"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2341|2113|2433|1320|2338","Content":"<p>The <a href="https://highered.aspeninstitute.org/" target="_blank" title="Aspen Institute College Excellence Program" rel="noopener">Aspen Institute College Excellence Program</a> named St. Petersburg College (SPC) one of the Aspen Prize Top 200 U.S. Community Colleges eligible to compete for the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s premier recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges.</p><p>The selection recognizes SPC’s strong outcomes in student retention, completion, transfer and bachelor’s degree attainment. Established in 2010, the Aspen Prize highlights colleges that deliver exceptional student success and equitable outcomes — both during and after college.</p><p>“We are honored to be recognized among the top community colleges in the nation,” said Dr. Tonjua Williams, President of St. Petersburg College. “This acknowledgment reflects SPC’s commitment to transforming lives through equitable access, student success and workforce innovation. We are proud of our faculty, staff and students whose dedication to excellence makes this possible.”</p><p>SPC’s ongoing focus on completion and success is showing measurable results. In 2025, the College saw a 7% increase in graduation rates, a 3.4% rise in overall class success and a 1.6% increase in persistence, with notable gains among first-time college students. Withdrawal rates also fell sharply, dropping 25–29% year-over-year, signaling stronger student engagement and academic progress.</p><p>“At St. Petersburg College, we are all working to improve course success and degree completion rates. It’s rewarding to see that effort reflected in the progress our students are making,” said Dr. Matthew Liao-Troth, Vice President of Academic Affairs. “Being named among the Aspen Prize Top 200 affirms that our student-centered approach and innovative programs are helping more students complete their goals and move into meaningful careers.”</p><p>The Aspen Prize process identifies colleges that demonstrate the potential for even greater impact and provides a roadmap for best practices across the community college sector. Over the next 20 months, eligible colleges will undergo a rigorous review based on student outcomes, learning, employment and equitable improvement practices.</p><p>“The Aspen Prize rewards colleges that achieve outcomes that truly matter — helping students complete degrees that lead to meaningful, well-paying careers,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program.</p><p>The 2027 Aspen Prize winner will be announced in Spring 2027 following multiple review phases, including semifinalist and finalist designations and site visits.</p><p>See the full list of eligible colleges and details about the process here <a href="https://highered.aspeninstitute.org/programs/aspen-prize-community-college-excellence" target="_blank" title="apsen institute" rel="noopener">as.pn/prize</a>.</p><p><strong>About the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program</strong></p><p>The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program strengthens higher education leadership and practice to improve student outcomes and advance economic mobility. For more information, visit highered.aspeninstitute.org and follow on LinkedIn, Bluesky and X. The <a href="https://www.aspeninstitute.org/" target="_blank" title="aspen institute" rel="noopener">Aspen Institute</a> is a global nonprofit organization that drives change through dialogue, leadership and action to help solve society’s greatest challenges. Founded in 1949, the Institute is headquartered in Washington, D.C., with a campus in Aspen, Colorado and partners worldwide. Learn more at www.aspeninstitute.org.</p>","Date":"2025-11-03T20:36:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Aspen-grad-caps.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"background image of graduates in blue caps with the blue and white logo of the Aspen Institiute in the middle"},"Headline":"Aspen Institute Names SPC Among Top 200 U.S. Community Colleges","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/aspen-institute-names-spc-among-top-200-us-community-colleges","value":{},"title":"Aspen Institute Names SPC Among Top 200 U.S. Community Colleges","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"$1 million prize honors college delivering strong student success in college and beyond","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Aspen-grad-caps-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"background image of graduates in blue caps with the blue and white logo of the Aspen Institiute in the middle"},"Title":"Aspen Institute Names SPC Among Top 200 U.S. Community Colleges"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2308|2338|2210","Content":"<p>Dr. Tashika Griffith, Provost of SPC’s Clearwater Campus, has been appointed the next president of Germanna Community College in Virginia. She will begin her new role effective Jan. 1, 2026.</p><p>“Dr. Griffith’s vision, collaboration and deep commitment to our mission have left a lasting mark on our College,” said SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams. “While we will greatly miss her as a colleague and leader, we take great pride in knowing that she will continue to make a meaningful impact in higher education as President of Germanna Community College.”</p><p>Since joining SPC in 2016, Dr. Griffith has been an exceptional leader, championing academic excellence, innovation and student success. Under her leadership, she has guided key initiatives to advance student success and community engagement in her roles as Associate Provost and Provost at the Downtown and Midtown Centers and the Clearwater Campus.</p><p>Dr. Griffith recently completed the Aspen Rising Presidents Fellowship, a year-long executive leadership experience that included mentoring from veteran presidents. She was selected from Germanna’s months-long search that attracted 80 candidates nationwide.</p><p>“It is with deep humility and great enthusiasm that I assume the role of President of Germanna Community College,” said Dr. Griffith. “Leaving our remarkable SPC community is bittersweet. It has been an incredible honor to serve and work alongside such a dedicated and inspiring community of faculty, staff and students. SPC will always remain with me.”</p><p>Established in 1970 as part of the Virginia Community College System, Germanna Community College serves the residents of the City of Fredericksburg and the Virginian counties of Caroline, Culpeper, King George, Madison, Orange, Spotsylvania and Stafford, as well as online learners.</p>","Date":"2025-10-31T14:29:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Tashika-Griffith.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"portrait of Dr. Tashika Griffith, Provost of SPC’s Clearwater Campus"},"Headline":"Tashika Griffith Appointed President of Germanna Community College","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/tashika-griffith-appointed-president-of-germanna-community-college","value":{},"title":"Tashika Griffith Appointed President of Germanna Community College","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Tashika Griffith appointed president of Germanna Community College","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Tashika-Griffith-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"portrait of Dr. Tashika Griffith, Provost of SPC’s Clearwater Campus"},"Title":"Tashika Griffith Appointed President of Germanna Community College"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2433|2338|2402|2210","Content":"<p>St. Petersburg College Workforce teamed up with <a href="https://www.onboardtampabay.com/" target="_blank" title="on board tampa bay" rel="noopener">OnBoard Tampa Bay</a>, a new regional workforce development initiative in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District 7, to prepare and place residents into high-demand transportation and infrastructure careers. The program strengthens the region’s multibillion-dollar road and bridge investment by helping meet critical workforce demands — while expanding pathways to economic mobility for Tampa Bay communities.</p><h2>Building a Pipeline for Opportunity</h2><p><img src="Images/Newsroom/OnBoard-TampaBay-sm.jpg" alt="red and blue logo with the words OnBoard Tampa Bay" title="onboard tampa bay" width="400" height="225" align="right" /></p><p>Florida’s infrastructure sector is growing at an unprecedented pace. In fiscal year 2022–23, FDOT awarded 459 construction contracts valued at $4.69 billion, fueling a statewide surge in demand for skilled workers. With billions more in projects planned across the Tampa Bay region, the need for a trained local workforce has become critical.</p><p><strong>OnBoard Tampa Bay</strong> was created to meet that challenge head-on — connecting residents with job opportunities in construction and transportation. The program links job seekers directly to over 139 road construction contractors hiring now through onboardtampabay.com, while providing hands-on support to help participants secure and succeed in their new roles.</p><h2>Why SPC Was Chosen</h2><p>FDOT selected SPC Workforce as its regional partner for its proven success with St. Pete Works, a nationally recognized model for community workforce development. That program connected hundreds of St. Petersburg residents to training and employment through collaboration and data-driven outcomes.</p><p>“The proven success of St. Pete Works created the foundation for this regional model,” said Belinthia Berry, Dean of Workforce Development & Corporate Partnerships. “We are excited to expand this work across Tampa Bay through our new partnership with FDOT.”</p><p>As part of this initiative, SPC is pleased to announce the appointment of Melvin Shepard Jr. as Project Manager for OnBoard Tampa Bay. Shepard successfully led St. Pete Works for the past four years and will now bring his expertise and leadership to drive success at the regional level.</p><h2>What the Program Provides</h2><ul><li><strong>Career Pathways Across Skill Levels</strong>:<br />Training for roles from general labor and skilled trades to equipment operators and project managers.</li><li><strong>Direct Employer Connections:<br /></strong>Streamlined access to hiring contractors through onboardtampabay.com, supported by SPC’s employer network.</li><li><strong>Comprehensive Support:<br /></strong>Wrap-around services such as mentoring, transportation assistance and career coaching to ensure job retention and advancement.</li><li><strong>Regional Collaboration:<br /></strong>Partnerships among SPC Workforce, FDOT, workforce boards and community organizations to align resources and outcomes.</li></ul><h2><strong>Regional Impact Goals</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>Meet contractor demand</strong> with a ready, skilled workforce</li><li><strong>Reduce project delays </strong>tied to labor shortages</li><li><strong>Promote economic mobility </strong>through equitable access to training and employment</li><li><strong>Strengthen local partnerships</strong> to sustain long-term workforce growth</li></ul><p>As Tampa Bay’s infrastructure investment surpasses <strong>$6 billion</strong>, OnBoard Tampa Bay represents a proactive strategy to ensure that residents — and local talent — are the driving force behind the region’s progress. For information or to explore opportunities, visit <a href="https://www.onboardtampabay.com/" target="_blank" title="On Board Tampa Bay" rel="noopener">onboardtampabay.com</a> or contact SPC Workforce Project Manager Melvin Shepard Jr. at <a href="mailto:shepardjr.melvin@spcollege.edu." target="_blank" title="Melvin Shepard Jr. email" rel="noopener">shepardjr.melvin@spcollege.edu</a>.</p>","Date":"2025-10-30T16:54:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Howard-Frankland-Bridge-Replacement.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"construction equipment at the site of the replacement Howard Frankland Bridge between Tampa and St. Pete"},"Headline":"SPC Launches OnBoard Tampa Bay to Power Local Workforce for Infrastructure Boom","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/spc-launches-onboard-tampa-bay-to-power-local-workforce-for-infrastructure-boom","value":{},"title":"SPC Launches OnBoard Tampa Bay to Power Local Workforce for Infrastructure Boom","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"FDOT-funded program trains and connects local workers to meet Tampa Bay’s growing infrastructure needs.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Howard-Frankland-Bridge-Replacement-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"construction equipment at the site of the replacement Howard Frankland Bridge between Tampa and St. Pete"},"Title":"SPC Launches OnBoard Tampa Bay to Power Local Workforce for Infrastructure Boom"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"1317|2433|2338|2402|2210","Content":"<p>For the third year, St. Petersburg College and <a href="https://veteransflorida.org/" target="_blank" title="veterans florida" rel="noopener">Veterans Florida</a> are partnering to offer the <a href="https://veteransflorida.org/entrepreneur/" target="_blank" title="Veterans Florida Entrepreneur website" rel="noopener">Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program</a>, an initiative designed to help veterans transform their military experience into successful business ventures.</p><p>Funded by Veterans Florida, the free, 6- to 8-week learning program highlights the fundamentals of launching and growing a business. It connects state business leaders with participants seeking to become entrepreneurs and offers veterans valuable resources such as workshops, online training, mentoring, and networking opportunities.</p><p>“Serving as an instructor for the Veterans Florida Program at SPC is incredibly rewarding because I get to witness the incredible drive, creativity and evolution of those who participate,” said SPC Professor Greta Kishbaugh. “They arrive eager to learn and leave with not only the tools to succeed, but also a renewed sense of purpose and vision for their future.”</p><p>The program supports SPC’s mission of offering noncredit, short-term workforce programs that help students find better jobs, lead better lives and strengthen their communities.</p><p>Recent data from the <a href="https://www.census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2023/annual-business-survey-employer-business-characteristics.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" title="us census bureau link" rel="noopener">United States Census Bureau</a> shows veteran entrepreneurship remains a critical but underleveraged part of the economy. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2022 Annual Business Survey, about 304,823 employer firms, representing approximately 5.2% of all U.S. employer firms, are veteran-owned. Meanwhile, veterans comprise an estimated 5.5% of all U.S. business owners when non-employer firms are included.</p><p>The program will be offered twice during SPC’s 2025-2026 academic year: one in Fall 2025 and another in Spring 2026. The first course will take place at SPC’s Clearwater Campus, 2465 Drew St., beginning Nov. 1, and the second will be held at The Greenhouse in St. Petersburg, 440 2nd Ave. N., starting in March 2026. Veterans in the early stages of their entrepreneurial journey — whether developing a business concept or seeking support to grow a new venture — are encouraged to <a href="https://web.spcollege.edu/survey/35978" target="_blank" title="apply for veterans florida" rel="noopener">apply here</a>.</p><p>For more information, contact Greta Kishbaugh at <a href="mailto:Kishbaugh.Greta@spcollege.edu" target="_blank" title="email Kishbaugh.Greta@spcollege.edu" rel="noopener">Kishbaugh.Greta@spcollege.edu</a> or Meghan Cottrell at <a href="mailto:Cottrell.Meghan@spcollege.edu" target="_blank" title="email Cottrell.Meghan@spcollege.edu" rel="noopener">Cottrell.Meghan@spcollege.edu</a>.</p>","Date":"2025-10-21T14:26:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Veteran-Grad-950x535.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"graduation cap with veterans logos"},"Headline":"Veterans Florida and SPC Partner for Third Year to Offer Entrepreneurship Program","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/veterans-florida-and-spc-partner-for-third-year-to-offer-entrepreneurship-program","value":{},"title":"Veterans Florida and SPC Partner for Third Year to Offer Entrepreneurship Program","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Veterans can unlock their entrepreneurial potential with SPC’s guidance.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Veteran-Grad-400x253.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"graduation cap with veterans logos"},"Title":"Veterans Florida and SPC Partner for Third Year to Offer Entrepreneurship Program"},{"Author":"120","Blurb":"","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":"","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":false,"src":"","w":"","h":"","alt":""},"Title":""}]