Partnership Signing Ceremony Between SPC and WGU on March 2

St. Petersburg College and Western Governors University will formalize a new partnership during a signing ceremony on March 2 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at SPC’s Clearwater Campus in LI-109, 2465 Drew St. Leaders from both institutions will gather to mark the collaboration, which expands flexible, affordable and workforce-aligned degree pathways for Florida students.

The agreement creates clearer transfer and career pathways for SPC graduates who want to continue their education in WGU’s online, competency-based bachelor’s and graduate programs. The partnership supports working adults and place-bound learners, reflecting both institutions' shared commitment to access, affordability, and workforce readiness.

“For nearly 100 years, St. Petersburg College has been helping students achieve their education and career goals through impactful and low-cost degrees and professional certificates,” said Kimberly K. Estep, Ph.D., Southeast regional vice president for WGU. “Our missions align very well, and we look forward to a long and prosperous partnership that will help prepare Floridians for the workforce needs of today and tomorrow.”

WGU currently serves a large population in Florida, with 21,668 graduates statewide and 11,743 active Florida students as of December 2025. The new partnership is expected to expand further access to flexible degree options in business, technology, health and education.

“This partnership creates an additional pathway for our students in our nationally recognized academic and workforces programs to continue their education, especially at the graduate level,” said Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Matthew Liao-Troth. “Together, we are expanding opportunity and making it easier for learners to continue their education and advance their careers without barriers.”

Event Agenda

• 12:45 p.m.: SPC and WGU representatives arrive
• 1 p.m.: Welcome remarks from Dr. Liao-Troth and Dr. Hendrick
• 1:15 p.m.: Signing and photos
• 1:30 p.m.: Event concludes

Partnership Benefits

• Transfer-friendly pathways from SPC to WGU programs
• SPC graduates and employees are eligible to apply for the $3,500 WGU Community College Partner Scholarship
• Free WGU application for SPC graduates and staff
• No-cost transcript retrieval through the National Student Clearinghouse with student permission