Dr. Thomas Furlong, a former leader at St. Petersburg College (SPC), has been honored with the naming of the Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies and Community Leadership program in his name. Furlong served in various leadership roles at SPC from 2001 to 2019, including senior vice president of baccalaureate programs and university partnerships, interim president, and interim vice president for academic affairs.

Impact on Higher Education

Furlong played a significant role in launching SPC’s first bachelor programs in education, nursing, and technology management. He helped develop the legislation that allowed SPC to become the pilot college for workforce bachelor programs. By 2009, SPC had over 4,000 baccalaureate students, 2,000 baccalaureate graduates, and over 20 majors.

Furlong’s contributions to higher education in Florida have been recognized, with all public community institutions in the state now offering at least two or three workforce bachelor programs. SPC president Dr. Tonjua Williams praised Furlong’s vision and leadership, stating that his impact on SPC is ‘woven into the very fabric of who we are today.’

Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.