[{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2210|2338|1320","Content":"<p>St. Petersburg College will be closed on <strong>Fridays</strong> from June 1 to July 31 as part of an adjusted summer schedule.</p><p>Campus locations will be open:<br /><strong>Monday through Thursday from </strong><strong>8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (with the exception of June 19)</strong></p><p>Virtual Advising for students will be open:<br /><strong>Monday through Thursday from </strong><strong>8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. </strong></p><p>All College campuses will be closed on the following days:</p><ul><li>Friday, June 6</li><li>Friday, June 13</li><li>Thursday, June 19 (holiday)</li><li>Friday, June 20</li><li>Friday, June 27</li><li>Friday, July 4 (holiday)</li><li>Friday, July 11</li><li>Friday, July 18</li><li>Friday, July 25</li></ul><p>To see regularly scheduled closures, visit the <a aria-label="Link College's academic calendar" id="menur2a9" href="/academic-calendar" title="academic calendar">College's academic calendar</a>. The Student Support Center <span data-teams="true">accepts phone calls Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 727-341-4772.</span></p><p><strong>Partner Operations & Campus Access</strong></p><ul><li>Some college partners and programs—such as Libraries, Theatre Production and the Law Enforcement/Correction Academy at the Allstate Center—will continue operations on Fridays.</li><li>Access, security, and maintenance support will be provided to accommodate these needs.</li></ul><p><strong>Security</strong></p><ul><li>Adjusted security protocols will be in place to maintain safety and ensure that authorized personnel have access to campus facilities when needed.</li></ul><p><span data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody"><strong>Registration Open for Summer Term</strong></span></p><p><span data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">The College will offer 600 classes during the Summer Term, which begins May 19. V</span><span data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">arious course format options are available, including on campus, online, SPC LIVE Online, and more.</span></p><p class="button"><a href="https://www.spcollege.edu/apply" target="_blank" title="Apply to SPC" rel="noopener">Apply Now</a></p><p class="button"><a href="https://titanhub.spcollege.edu/" target="_blank" title="Titan Hub" rel="noopener">Register Now</a></p>","Date":"2025-05-07T16:06:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Newsroom-summer-hours.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"young man sitting on the Clearwater Campus wearing a blue SPC shirt and sun hat"},"Headline":"College Hours Adjusted for Summer","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/college-closed-on-fridays-during-summer","value":{},"title":"College Hours Adjusted for Summer","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"St. Petersburg College will be closed on Fridays from June 1 to July 30 as part of a new summer schedule.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Newsroom-summer-hours-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"young man sitting on the Clearwater Campus wearing a blue SPC shirt and sun hat"},"Title":"College Hours Adjusted for Summer"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2338|2308","Content":"<h2>ST. PETERSBURG COLLEGE (SPC) AND UNITED FACULTY OF FLORIDA (UFF)</h2><p>A public meeting of representatives of SPC and UFF to conduct an impact bargaining session and reopener negotiations pursuant to Article 22 of SPC-UFF’s 2024-2027 Collective Bargaining Agreement will be held on May 15, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Epi Center, St. Petersburg College, 13805 58th Street North, Clearwater, Florida in room EPI 1-451 & 1-453.</p><p>Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any persons with disabilities requiring reasonable accommodations or assistance to participate should contact the Board Clerk at 727-341-3241 five (5) business days before the meeting date.</p>","Date":"2025-05-07T13:02:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Titan-logo-placeholder-Image-950.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"graphic of a titan helmet on a blue gradient background"},"Headline":"Public Notice of Impact Bargaining and Collective Bargaining","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/public-notice-of-impact-bargaining-and-collective-bargaining","value":{},"title":"Public Notice of Impact Bargaining and Collective Bargaining","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"A public meeting of representatives of SPC and UFF to conduct an impact bargaining session and reopener negotiations pursuant to Article 22 of SPC-UFF’s 2024-2027 Collective Bargaining Agreement will be held on May 15, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Epi Center, St. Petersburg College, 13805 58th Street North, Clearwater, Florida in room EPI 1-451 & 1-453.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Titan-logo-placeholder-Image-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"graphic of a titan helmet on a blue gradient background"},"Title":"Public Notice of Impact Bargaining and Collective Bargaining"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"1317|2433|2113|2338","Content":"<p>St. Petersburg College (SPC) is redefining <a href="/future-students/degrees-training/business/hospitality-and-tourism-management" title="Hospitality and Tourism Management">hospitality education</a> through an exciting new partnership with Visit St. Pete-Clearwater (VisitSPC), aimed at transforming its Introduction to Hospitality course into a dynamic, hands-on learning experience that prepares students for thriving careers in Florida’s booming tourism and hospitality industry.</p><p>As part of SPC’s continued commitment to aligning academic offerings with industry needs, the revamped course will eliminate traditional textbooks in favor of interactive, locally driven content. Leveraging VisitSPC’s resources, including high-quality videos, images, and insights from local industry leaders, the course offers students an immersive look into the diverse segments of the hospitality sector, from hotels and resorts to event planning and tourism operations.</p><p>“Relaunching this course was about creating something timely, engaging, and grounded in the real world,” said Dr. Louise Black, SPC Hospitality and Management faculty. “With the support of Visit St. Pete/Clearwater, we’ve reimagined hospitality education as something that starts in the classroom and reaches into the community. This isn’t just a textbook course — it’s a blueprint for future professionals.”</p><p>Reflecting on the course's broader academic vision and its real-world relevance, Dr. Emmanuel Hernandez-Agosto, Dean of SPC’s College of Business, shared that he is thrilled to announce the revamped Introduction to Hospitality course that was developed in collaboration with industry leaders and VisitSPC.</p><p>“This innovative course offers our students the unique opportunity to learn directly from industry partners, visit their facilities, and explore the diverse aspects of hospitality that often go unnoticed,” said Hernandez-Agosto. “We are committed to providing our students with unparalleled experiences and insights that will prepare them to excel in the dynamic world of hospitality."</p><p><strong>Key course enhancements include: </strong></p><ul><li><strong>No Textbook Required</strong>: Reduces costs and increases accessibility.</li><li><strong>Industry Content from VisitSPC</strong>: Curated materials showcasing local attractions and employers.</li><li><strong>Misconception-Busting Modules</strong>: Breaking down barriers and reshaping perceptions of hospitality careers.</li><li><strong>Local Employer Spotlights</strong>: Real-world relevance through case studies of area businesses.</li><li><strong>Hands-On Experiences</strong>: Direct engagement with industry leaders and work environments.</li><li><strong>Scholarship Opportunities</strong>: Funding support through the Pinellas Chapter of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association for eligible students.</li><li><strong>Open Enrollment</strong>: Available to both degree-seeking and non-degree-seeking students.</li></ul><p class="calloutBlock content"><strong>Take your First Hospitality Course for Free</strong><br />Students can qualify to take this course for free through an SPC Foundation Scholarship funded by the Pinellas County Hotel/Motel Association. More information is <a href="https://web.spcollege.edu/survey/16308" target="_blank" title="hospitality class form" rel="noopener">available here</a>.</p><p><strong>Economic Impact</strong></p><p>SPC’s partnership with VisitSPC also reflects the vital role the College plays in the area through its economic contributions and impact on the vitality of the local economy. The College <a href="/spc-newsroom/spc-contributes-more-than-3-billion-in-economic-impact-to-tampa-bay-area" title="SPC Contributes More Than $3 Billion in Economic Impact to Tampa Bay Area">added $3.2 billion in income into the Tampa Bay region</a> through operations spending, student spending and alumni contributions during the 2022-23 fiscal year, according to an independent economic impact study.</p><p>The partnership also arrives at a time of significant growth in the local tourism economy. In fiscal year 2024, Pinellas County saw a record-breaking $11.2 billion in economic impact from tourism, welcoming more than 15.4 million visitors and accounting for over 6.4 million hotel room nights. Statewide, Florida attracted 142.9 million visitors in 2024, a 1.6% increase from the previous year. Also, approximately 1 in 10 jobs in Pinellas County are tourism/hospitality related.</p><p>“This collaboration with St. Petersburg College is an investment in the future of our workforce,” said Kylie Diaz, Vice President of Community Engagement at Visit St. Pete-Clearwater. “Our workforce is the backbone of tourism and hospitality, and we are excited to expose students to the many opportunities of a career in this industry. Being able to create this partnership and include FRLA is an investment in education to not just prepare students for thriving careers but also shape the future of visitor experience. This is about building a thriving, sustainable future for our industry.”</p><p>Through this innovative course design, students will explore local venues such as The Vinoy Resort and Golf Club, Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach, The Don CeSar, and local elite events that draw significant crowds like St. Pete Pride, and the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, engaging with professionals and gaining insights that extend well beyond traditional classroom instruction.</p><p>“This course is one-of-a-kind,” added Dr. Black. “It reflects what students need today: education that’s engaging, localized, and designed to create real opportunities.”</p>","Date":"2025-04-25T17:15:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/SPC-VSPC-PressRelease.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"Keychain of Titus the blue and yellow Titan mascot dangling in front of a beach scene"},"Headline":"College Partners with Visit St. Pete-Clearwater to Revolutionize Hospitality Education","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/college-partners-with-visit-st-pete-clearwater-to-revolutionize-hospitality-education","value":{},"title":"College Partners with Visit St. Pete-Clearwater to Revolutionize Hospitality Education","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"The College’s new Hospitality and Tourism curriculum emphasizes real-world experience and industry engagement to better prepare students for hospitality careers.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/SPC-VSPC-PressRelease-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"Keychain of Titus the blue and yellow Titan mascot dangling in front of a beach scene"},"Title":"College Partners with Visit St. Pete-Clearwater to Revolutionize Hospitality Education"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2306|2433|2338|2308","Content":"<p><img src="Images/Newsroom/Jean-Lee-nursing-dean.jpg" alt="portrait of Dr Jean Lee dean of nursing" width="226" height="301" hspace="10" class="float-left" />St. Petersburg College is pleased to announce Dr. Jean Lee as the new Dean of the <a href="/future-students/degrees-training/health-sciences-and-veterinary-technology/nursing" title="College of Nursing">College of Nursing at SPC</a>.</p><p>With over 30 years of experience as a registered nurse, Dr. Lee has been a nurse educator at SPC for more than 15 years. Her expertise spans critical care, including medical, surgical, and trauma care. She specialized in online education for nurses returning to school for baccalaureate education. She developed online courses and curricula to meet national standards and participated in multiple successful accreditation visits from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.</p><p>Dr. Lee holds a Ph.D. in Nursing from the University of South Florida, focusing on health services research and health care quality. She also earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from the University of South Florida, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to her new role.</p><p>Before her academic career, Dr. Lee held various positions in clinical practice, including staff and charge nurse of a trauma-surgical intensive care unit and hospital supervisor. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. A Tampa Bay area resident since the 1980s, she has volunteered with several organizations, including the St. Pete Free Clinic, St. Vincent de Paul Cares, and Friends of Strays.</p>","Date":"2025-04-17T13:16:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Titan-logo-placeholder-Image-950.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"graphic of a titan with a helmet on a blue gradient background"},"Headline":"Dr. Jean Lee Named Dean of the College of Nursing","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/dr-jean-lee-named-dean-of-the-college-of-nursing","value":{},"title":"Dr. Jean Lee Named Dean of the College of Nursing","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"SPC Names Dr. Jean Lee as SPC's Dean of the College of Nursing, which has been a premier educator of Tampa Bay nursing professionals for over six decades.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Jean-Lee-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"portrait of Nursing Dean Jean Lee"},"Title":"Dr. Jean Lee Named Dean of the College of Nursing"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2433|2113|2210|2338|1320","Content":"<p><img src="Images/Newsroom/economic-impact-3billion.jpg" alt="SPC total annual impact $3.2 billion added income or 35,383 jobs supported" width="354" height="411" class="float-right" />St. Petersburg College (SPC) plays a vital role in the Tampa Bay region, not only through its educational offerings but also through its significant economic contributions. The College <a href="/friends-partners/about/economic-impact-of-st-petersburg-college" title="Economic Impact of St. Petersburg College" class="intLink">added $3.2 billion in income into the Tampa Bay</a> region during the 2022-23 fiscal year, according to an independent economic impact study.</p><p>Conducted by Lightcast, a global pioneer in the collection and big-data analysis of information in the labor market, the study divides the College’s economic impact, equal to about 1.4% of the area’s total gross regional product, into three main components — operations spending, student spending, and alumni contributions.</p><p>Highlights include:</p><ul><li>SPC’s operational activities alone added $190.9 million to the economy and supported over 3,200 jobs, all in the Tampa Bay region.</li><li>Spending by relocated and retained students—those who moved to the region or stayed because of SPC—added another $46.9 million.</li><li>The greatest impact came from SPC alumni, whose enhanced skills and productivity translated into $2.9 billion in added income and supported more than 31,000 jobs. This economic boost is like hosting the Super Bowl eight times.</li><li>The average associate degree graduate from SPC will see an increase in earnings of $7,600 each year compared to a person with a high school diploma or equivalent working in Florida.</li></ul><p>SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams said that the study's results reinforce SPC’s role in the region as a major driver of economic mobility and workforce development.</p><p>“This report affirms the powerful impact SPC has on our students’ futures and the vitality of our local economy,” said Dr. Williams. “Whether it’s through innovative academic programs, responsive, industry-aligned workforce training or community partnerships, SPC remains committed to opening doors of opportunity and ensuring success in the classroom, the workplace and beyond.”</p><p>SPC generates significant economic value through spending by its students who have either relocated to or attended the College or remained in the Tampa Bay region because of it. This reflects SPC’s economic influence outside Pinellas County and across the broader Tampa Bay area, including Hillsborough, Pasco, and Hernando counties. The College’s impact includes:</p><ul><li>During the fiscal year, SPC supported more than 35,383 jobs in the region, according to the study. That means SPC and its students support one out of every 62 jobs in Tampa Bay.</li><li>For every $1 that supports SPC, the community gains $13.70 in added income and social savings. Taxpayers gain $2 in added tax revenue and public sector savings.</li><li>In Pinellas County alone, SPC’s annual impact was $1.8 billion, with operational activities adding $154.9 million. The College’s activities and students supported more than 18,500 jobs.</li></ul><p>SPC leaders emphasize that the College’s impact extends beyond economic figures — it’s about transforming lives through education. As part of that mission, SPC continues to encourage students to pursue higher levels of learning to unlock greater opportunities.</p><p>Dr. Matthew Liao-Troth, SPC’s Vice President of Academic Affairs, said the study highlights how lives and communities are transformed through education.</p><p>“We always talk to our students about making sure they get to where they want to be to be successful for themselves and their community,” Liao-Troth said. “This report showed that the more education you have, the higher your average salary is. There is a value to education beyond high school, beyond a certificate, even beyond an associate degree.”</p><p>SPC’s Board of Trustees Chair Jason Butts said the study confirms the College’s significance in providing opportunities for growth and transformation both inside and outside of the classroom. “Internally, we’ve known this College is a powerhouse in the Tampa Bay area,” Butts said. “This report shows that message."</p>","Date":"2025-04-16T13:16:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Business-student2.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"portrait of a man in a business suit sitting at a laptop in front of a window"},"Headline":"SPC Contributes More Than $3 Billion in Economic Impact to Tampa Bay Area","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/spc-contributes-more-than-3-billion-in-economic-impact-to-tampa-bay-area","value":{},"title":"SPC Contributes More Than $3 Billion in Economic Impact to Tampa Bay Area","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"SPC's investments are driving growth and creating opportunities across the region, generating more than $3 billion in economic impact to Tampa Bay Area.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Business-student2-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"portrait of a man in a business suit sitting at a laptop in front of a window"},"Title":"SPC Contributes More Than $3 Billion in Economic Impact to Tampa Bay Area"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"1314|2341|2113|2338|1320","Content":"<p>With the launch of the new <a href="/future-students/degrees-training/arts-humanities-and-design/digital-media/digital-media-bas-degree" title="Digital Media B.A.S. Degree">Digital Media bachelor's degree</a>, St. Petersburg College continues to invest in programs that meet growing workforce demands and deliver excellence in learning for students to obtain better jobs and have better lives.</p><p>The Digital Media Bachelor of Applied Science Degree was created by industry and College leaders to provide digital artists additional education and training to advance in their profession.</p><p>"Many practitioners are very focused on their specialty in digital media and become engaged in the gig economy," said Dr. Matthew Liao-Troth, Vice President of Academic Affairs at SPC. "In corporate America, they are looking for a bachelor's degree to enter the field."</p><p>The degree builds on SPC’s certificates and associate degree in digital media, preparing graduates to work as graphic designers, digital videographers and content and web designers. The four-year degree is focused on employability and can assist graduates in achieving a level of career stability that freelance work cannot provide.</p><p>"There is definite demand there," said Jessica Curran, Digital Media Program Director. "Anyone in our A.A. or A.S. programs will transition seamlessly into the bachelor’s program. The degree will help our grads fit into organizations and get full-time jobs as opposed to freelance or gigs. That full-time position with benefits is the ideal outcome for them."</p><p>According to Florida’s Department of Economic Opportunity, job openings for producers and directors, content and instructional designers, video deposition recorders, art directors and animators and graphic designers will increase by 200 jobs over the next four years in Pinellas County. Those careers pay an average of $62,014 a year, according to the state.</p><p>The bachelor’s program garnered support from the University of South Florida, the Pinellas County school district and WEDU-PBS.</p><p>"As creatives, we all work in the gig economy at some point," said Dr. Barbara Hubbard, SPC’s Dean of Arts, Humanities, and Design. "This degree can open whole new avenues for our graduates, so they are ready to become art or marketing directors who manage artists and their work, which is what businesses are looking for."</p>","Date":"2025-04-15T13:57:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Digital-Media-video.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"two male students setting up and using a video camera"},"Headline":"Digital Media Bachelor’s Degree Launches This Fall","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/digital-media-bachelors-degree-launches-this-fall","value":{},"title":"Digital Media Bachelor’s Degree Launches This Fall","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"SPC’s new bachelor's degree in digital media offers hands-on and management training in content creation, design and emerging technologies.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Digital-Media-video-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"two male students setting up and using a video camera"},"Title":"Digital Media Bachelor’s Degree Launches This Fall"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"1321|2210|2338|2308","Content":"<p>A Celebration of Life is planned for April 26 for Dr. Carl Kuttler, Jr., who served as president of St. Petersburg College for 31 years and oversaw one of its most transformative periods of growth — moving the College from a two to four-year institution and adding several new sites.</p><p>It will be held at 11 a.m. at <a href="https://calvary.us/new-here/locations/clearwater/" target="_blank" title="Calvary Church" rel="noopener">Calvary Church</a> in Clearwater and is being planned by his family. The celebration is open to the public.</p><p>Dr. Kuttler, 85, who passed away April 2, was the fifth and longest-serving president in SPC’s history. Among his numerous achievements, he worked with lawmakers to craft a bill, which was approved by the Florida Legislature in 2001, to allow then St. Petersburg Junior College (SPJC) to become the first two-year college in the state to offer bachelor’s degree. The College simultaneously changed its name.</p><p>During this tenure as president from 1978 to 2009, Dr. Kuttler oversaw the openings of the Seminole Campus, the Downtown, Allstate, and Health Education centers as well as the Dr. Cecil Keene Learning Center in South St. Petersburg. He also partnered with Pinellas County government to purchase and share the EpiCenter, a modern, multi-story building located in Clearwater.</p><p>“Dr. Kuttler cared deeply about our College and the Pinellas County community, which is evident in all that he achieved,” said Dr. Tonjua Williams, who first joined the College in 1986 and worked her way up the ladder partly under Dr. Kuttler’s leadership. “He left an incredible footprint at SPC, and we will be forever grateful for his vision, leadership and contributions.”</p><p>Dr. Kuttler established a partnership with the University of Florida that brought a College of Pharmacy and a Dental School to SPC’s Seminole Campus. He established the Leepa-Rattner Museum for modern art on the Tarpon Springs Campus. The museum and its contents are the result of an initial donation of fine arts worth millions of dollars from Alan and Isabelle Leepa. With the <a href="https://mypalladium.org/palladiums-25-year-history-sets-the-stage-for-a-very-exciting-future/" target="_blank" title="acquisition of the Palladium Theater link" rel="noopener">acquisition of the Palladium Theater</a> as a gift from a nonprofit organization, SPC also became the hub for the local arts community.</p><p>"All of us who love St. Petersburg College are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Carl Kuttler, a visionary leader whose impact on the school and the entire Florida college system will be felt for generations,’’ said SPC Trustee Deveron Gibbons. “Dr. Kuttler’s unwavering commitment helped transform the college by securing legislative approval to offer four-year degrees, a milestone that reshaped higher education across our state. His remarkable ability to rally support and investment for causes that strengthened our institution stands as a lasting legacy of his extraordinary leadership. He will be greatly missed."</p><p>Kuttler began his career at SPC in 1966 as assistant to the vice president for administration and later served dean of administrative services. He took the helm of the College after the retirement of Michael Bennett in 1978.</p><p>“Carl was an incredible leader and visionary. His ability to collaborate and work together to formulate creative solutions was extraordinary,’ said Terrence “Terry” Brett, who was chair of the SPC Board of Trustees when Dr. Kuttler retired. “As college president, you have to deal with faculty, administration, students, alumni, donors, elected officials and all of the other stakeholders. Most of these groups have different priorities and concerns. That’s a very tough job. Carl did it exceedingly well. From my perspective, he was always willing to listen, compromise, if need be, and work his hardest to get to the finish line. His incredible impact on SPC will be felt for generations.”</p><p>A St. Petersburg native, he got his higher education start at the college that he would later lead. After graduating from SPJC in 1960, he earned a bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and a law degree from Stetson University College of Law.</p><p>Dr. Kuttler received numerous awards for his achievements, including the Outstanding CEO (College President) by the American Association of Community College Trustees and the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3Dq_LFVWm4" target="_blank" title="James L. Wattenbarger Award video link" rel="noopener">James L. Wattenbarger Award</a> from the Florida Association of Community Colleges now called Association of Florida Colleges, among others.</p><p>Among Dr. Kuttler’s survivors are his wife, Violetta S. Kuttler; daughters, Erica Shannon, Cindy Mercer and stepdaughter, Anastasia Sweet. He is preceded in death by his son, Carl Kuttler III.</p>","Date":"2025-04-11T19:26:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/PresidentKuttler.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"portrait of former SPC President Carl Kuttler"},"Headline":"Celebration of Life planned for former SPC President Dr. Carl Kuttler","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/celebration-of-life-planned-for-former-spc-president-dr-carl-kuttler","value":{},"title":"Celebration of Life Planned for Former SPC President Dr. Carl Kuttler","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"A Celebration of Life is planned for April 26 for Dr. Carl Kuttler, Jr., who served as president of St. Petersburg College for 31 years.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/PresidentKuttler-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"portrait of former SPC President Carl Kuttler"},"Title":"Celebration of Life Planned for Former SPC President Dr. Carl Kuttler"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2210|2338","Content":"<p>St. Petersburg College will host an adjunct job fair April 30 to find dedicated, talented faculty to teach part-time at campuses and centers across Pinellas County.</p><p><strong>Date</strong>: April 30<br /><strong>Time</strong>: 4-7 p.m.<br /><strong>Location</strong>: <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/dir//EpiCenter+at+St.+Petersburg+College+13805+58th+St+N+Clearwater,+FL+33760/@27.8973696,-82.7118787,17z/data=!4m5!4m4!1m0!1m2!1m1!1s0x88c2e51535e1cf83:0x2eaa72297bac3530" target="_blank" title="https://maps.google.com/maps/dir//EpiCenter+at+St.+Petersburg+College+13805+58th+St+N+Clearwater,+FL+33760/@27.8973696,-82.7118787,17z/data=!4m5!4m4!1m0!1m2!1m1!1s0x88c2e51535e1cf83:0x2eaa72297bac3530" rel="noopener">EpiCenter</a>, 13805 58th St. N., Clearwater</p><p>Attendees can meet representatives from various disciplines, explore part-time teaching opportunities and discuss SPC’s teaching requirements. Attendees are encouraged to bring a resume or vita and unofficial copies of academic transcripts.</p><p>To teach developmental courses for SPC, adjunct faculty must have a bachelor’s degree plus specific coursework and experience. To teach college-credit courses, adjuncts need a master’s degree with at least 18 graduate hours in the discipline.</p><p>High-need areas include art, computer information systems, college-credit mathematics, dental hygiene, developmental mathematics, digital media, economics, engineering, health administration, languages, non-college credit courses, science and more.</p><p>For more information, visit the <a href="https://hr.spcollege.edu/work-at-spc/prospective-employees" target="_blank" title="HR website for prospective employees" rel="noopener">Human Resources website</a> or contact Donna Bolich, Associate Director of Talent Acquisition and Onboarding, at <a href="mailto:Bolich.Donna@SPCollege.edu" target="_blank" title="Bolich.Donna@SPCollege.edu" rel="noopener">Bolich.Donna@SPCollege.edu</a>.</p>","Date":"2025-04-11T13:48:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/job-fair-gibbs.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"photo of the Student Success Center building on the St. Petersburg Gibbs Campus"},"Headline":"Job Fair to be Held April 30 for Adjunct Faculty Positions","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/job-fair-to-be-held-april-30-for-adjunct-faculty-positions","value":{},"title":"Job Fair to be Held April 30 for Adjunct Faculty Positions","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"St. Petersburg College will host an adjunct job fair on April 30 to find dedicated, talented faculty to teach part-time at campuses and centers across Pinellas County.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/job-fair-gibbs-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"photo of the Student Success Center building on the St. Petersburg Gibbs Campus"},"Title":"Job Fair to be Held April 30 for Adjunct Faculty Positions"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2114|1378|1381|1321|2210|2338","Content":"<p>As single mom Antoinette Catalano finished sharing her journey from foster care and abuse to overcoming medical injuries to earning her degree at the age of 32, the audience stood and cheered in support.</p><p>On Friday, April 4, more than 350 supporters of St. Petersburg College and scholarship recipients attended the 25th annual St. Petersburg College Foundation Donors and Scholars Luncheon at the Hilton St. Petersburg at Carillon Park.</p><p>The luncheon is a celebration for all SPC donors and supporters to thank them for their involvement. The event provides an opportunity for donors to meet some of the SPC students who have benefited from SPC Foundation scholarships and program funding, and featured moving speeches from Catalano and others, and music from SPC students.</p><p>The Foundation supported the College with almost $5 million in funding in the past year, including more than $2.7 million in scholarships to over 4,000 students. In addition, more than $157,000 was distributed to more than 450 students whose lives were impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.</p><p>“Your unwavering support of the SPC Hurricane Relief Fund made an extraordinary difference. Your generosity provided immediate assistance to those most affected – our students, faculty and staff – when they needed it most,” said Mark Strickland, SPC’s Interim Vice President of Student Affairs, who emceed the event. “We proudly honor the resilience and accomplishments of our students – many of whom have persevered through immense challenges and competing demands to stay on course and pursue their dreams.”</p><p>Catalano persevered through years of personal and physical challenges before finally earning her associate’s degree, and is now continuing in SPC’s Human Services bachelor’s degree program with aspirations to attend law school.</p><p>“I am especially thankful to the SPC Foundation donors for making the impossible possible,” said Catalano, who endured 10 broken bones and 10 surgeries following a car accident years ago. “I knew I had to go to college because I needed a career that did not involve standing for prolonged periods of time, and I also knew I needed to generate a gainful income to support my son and me. Without scholarships, that would not have been possible.”</p><p>SPC alum Dr. Jackie Munro also shared her journey with the College. Munro is the Vice President of Nursing Systems and Resources at BayCare Health System, which is a longtime SPC partner and donor.</p><p>“My best memories in nursing school [at SPC] included valued conversations with faculty about nursing practice,” said Munro. “They inspired me to continue my education and begin my nursing leadership journey.”</p><p>She thanked SPC faculty for paving the way for student success by uplifting students and inspiring them to think big, using her story as an example of how one program can influence one student and, in turn, help shape the future of a community. SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams gave closing remarks, echoing Catalano’s comments.</p><p>“How we were raised, the mistakes we’ve made, they do not define us, but they make us stronger, and they make us work harder,” said Dr. Williams. “There are so many people who say, ‘I am who I am because of SPC,’ and that’s because of our wonderful faculty, our staff, our board of trustees, our Foundation board and our donors...We are SPC! And we could not do that without you.”</p><p>Thank you to all our SPC donors and supporters! For more photos of the event, check out the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1339802573925311&type=3" target="_blank" title="facebook photo gallery donors and scholars 2025" rel="noopener">photo album on Facebook</a>.</p>","Date":"2025-04-09T14:11:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/donors-scholars2025.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"portrait of scholarship student Antoinette Catalan standing at a podium addressing donors"},"Headline":"SPC Foundation Hosts 25th Annual Donors and Scholars Appreciation Luncheon","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/spc-foundation-hosts-25th-annual-donors-and-scholars-appreciation-luncheon","value":{},"title":"SPC Foundation Hosts 25th Annual Donors and Scholars Appreciation Luncheon","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"SPC Foundation's 25th Annual Donors and Scholars Appreciation Luncheon highlights student triumphs","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/donors-scholars2025-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"portrait of scholarship student Antoinette Catalan standing at a podium addressing donors"},"Title":"SPC Foundation Hosts 25th Annual Donors and Scholars Appreciation Luncheon"},{"Author":"","Blurb":"","CategoryIds":"2115|1321|2433|2210|2338","Content":"<p>St. Petersburg College will host its second annual Construction Expo on April 16 from 9 a.m. to noon at the College’s Midtown Center, featuring live demonstrations, presentations by industry experts, and opportunities to explore various careers. There will be demonstrations of drone technology, field surveying, and AutoCAD technology.</p><p>This event is open to the public. SPC students, alumni and Pinellas County High School students will also be in attendance. The College’s $40 application fee will be waived for anyone applying to SPC at the event. Participants can speak with over 20 construction industry experts and learn about their future with SPC and the industry.</p><p>“Our goal with the Construction Expo is to provide career exposure experience to construction and what it means to be a construction worker. The jobs in construction pay high wages and provide a good opportunity for our students and the community,” said Sidney Martin, SPC’s Program Director of Engineering Technology.</p><p>In the next decade, 40% of the current U.S. construction workforce will be retiring. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median age of construction workers has risen, and half of construction workers are older than the age of 45. Industry leaders are turning to institutions like SPC to advocate for construction as a career for students.</p><p>Expo attendees will not only be able to explore career opportunities and construction trends but also learn about programs SPC offers in the construction field, such as the <a href="/future-students/degrees-training/engineering-manufacturing-and-building-arts/building-arts/field-survey-technician-certificate" title="Field Survey Technician Certificate">Field Survey Technician Certificate</a> that enables students to find entry-level jobs in construction. Students also can obtain an <a href="/future-students/degrees-training/engineering-manufacturing-and-building-arts/building-arts/building-design-and-construction-management-as-degree" title="Associate in Science degree in Building Design and Construction Management">Associate in Science degree in Building Design and Construction Management</a> or a <a href="/future-students/degrees-training/engineering-manufacturing-and-building-arts/building-arts/sustainable-construction-technology-certificate" title="certificate in Sustainable Construction Technology">certificate in Sustainable Construction Technology</a> at SPC.</p><p>“Many people do not realize there are great opportunities to move into management in construction and the variety of jobs available,” said Martin.</p><ul><li><strong>Date</strong>: Wednesday, April 16</li><li><strong>Location</strong>: SPC Douglas L. Jamerson Jr. <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/dir//St.+Petersburg+College+(SPC)+-+Cecil+B.+Keene+Achievement+Center+1048+22nd+St+S+St.+Petersburg,+FL+33712/@27.7597699,-82.6627755,17z/data=!4m5!4m4!1m0!1m2!1m1!1s0x88c2e23b8a03bf13:0x542fa58eea3c9447" target="_blank" title="directions to Midtown Center" rel="noopener">Midtown Center</a>, 1300 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg</li><li><strong>Time</strong>: 9 a.m. to noon</li><li><strong>Registration</strong>: <a href="https://web.spcollege.edu/survey/37930/" target="_blank" title="construction expo registration" rel="noopener">Construction Expo 2025</a></li><li><strong>Key Activities</strong>:<ul><li>Company Exhibits: 9 a.m. - noon (Lobby)</li><li>Industry Presentations (15 mins): 9 a.m. - noon (Community Room)</li><li>Demonstrations: 10 a.m. - noon (Parking Lot)</li></ul></li></ul><p>For information, contact Tracy Garrett at 727-341-3172 or <a href="mailto:garrett.tracy@spcollege.edu" target="_blank" title="email Tracy Garrett at garrett.tracy@spcollege.edu" rel="noopener">garrett.tracy@spcollege.edu</a>.</p>","Date":"2025-04-08T13:37:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/construction-expo2.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"male student operating a heavy equipment excavator"},"Headline":"Upcoming SPC Expo Highlights Growing Labor Demand in Construction","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/upcoming-spc-expo-highlights-growing-labor-demand-in-construction","value":{},"title":"Upcoming SPC Expo Highlights Growing Labor Demand in Construction","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Discover the latest trends and innovations in construction and how SPC can prepare you for these jobs.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/construction-expo2-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"male student operating a heavy equipment excavator"},"Title":"Upcoming SPC Expo Highlights Growing Labor Demand in Construction"},{"Author":"77","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":""}]