South Florida State College: A History of Academic Growth
The journey of South Florida State College began with a community vision in 1960 to establish a junior college in Avon Park. What started as a modest effort to expand educational access in the region has evolved into a comprehensive state college serving multiple campuses and diverse student populations.
The Founding Years
Founded in 1965 as South Florida Junior College, the institution was established following the appointment of a Highlands-Hardee Junior College Advisory Committee by the Florida State Board of Education. Dr. William A. Stallard served as the college's first president, guiding the institution through its formative years.
The college officially opened its doors on August 22, 1966, operating out of temporary quarters in Avon Park. The inaugural term was supported by a full-time faculty of 14, who served 164 full-time students and 119 part-time and evening students.
Rapid Expansion and Accreditation
From its inception, the college pursued aggressive growth. In its very first year, the institution expanded its programming and even established a basketball team. By 1968, the college achieved full state accreditation, making it the first junior college to reach this milestone in less than three years. That same year, the college launched a vocational technical program and broke ground on the current Highlands Campus site.
The 1970s and early 1980s saw a surge in infrastructure development. Permanent staff facilities were completed in January 1970, followed by the construction of vocational buildings, a bookstore, and a student center in 1974. The campus continued to grow with the completion of the auditorium in 1978 and the gymnasium in 1982.
Transition to a Community College
A significant transition occurred in 1984. Following the retirement of Dr. Stallard in January, Dr. Richard Morley served as interim president. In March 1984, the District Board of Trustees officially renamed the institution South Florida Community College. Shortly thereafter, the South Florida Community College Foundation was established to provide essential grants and scholarships to students.
In July 1984, Dr. Catherine Cornelius took office as the second president of the college, overseeing a period of regional expansion.
Regional Growth and Unique Assets
To better serve the surrounding area, the college opened the Lake Placid Center (located in a former public school) and the DeSoto Center in late 1984. While the DeSoto Center began with just three classrooms and an office in the Fountain Plaza, it eventually grew into a modern, spacious campus completed in 2003.
In 1988, the college acquired the historic Hotel Jacaranda, a distinguished 1920s landmark that once hosted famous figures such as Babe Ruth, George Burns, and Gracie Allen. Today, the hotel serves as a residence for student-athletes while remaining open to the public as a restaurant and hotel.
Modernization and Specialization
The 1990s and 2000s marked a shift toward specialized training and modern learning modalities. Telecourses (distance learning via television or digital media) were introduced in 1992, and the Public Service Academy opened in 1993 to provide critical education in law enforcement, emergency medical services, and criminal justice.
Further milestones included the opening of the Crews Center in 1999, followed by the University Center and the Museum of Florida Art and Culture (MOFAC) in 2002. In 2003, the college expanded its healthcare offerings with the opening of the Dental Education Center.
The institution reached its current identity on July 1, 2012, when it officially changed its name to South Florida State College.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1965 as South Florida Junior College.
- First President: Dr. William A. Stallard.
- Accreditation Record: First junior college to gain full state accreditation in under three years (1968).
- Historic Landmark: Owner of the Hotel Jacaranda, built in the 1920s.
- Name Changes: Transitioned from Junior College to Community College (1984) and finally to State College (2012).
| President | Term of Office |
|---|---|
| William A. Stallard | 1965–1984 |
| Catherine P. Cornelius | 1984–2002 |
| Norman L. Stephens Jr. | 2002–2013 |
| Thomas C. Leitzel | 2013–2023 |
| Fred Hawkins | 2023–Present |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the college first start classes?
The first term of college began on August 22, 1966, in temporary quarters located in Avon Park.
What is the significance of the Hotel Jacaranda?
Built in the 1920s and acquired by the college in 1988, it is a historic hotel that once hosted celebrities like Babe Ruth. It now serves as a residence for student-athletes and offers public accommodations and dining.
What does the Public Service Academy provide?
Opened in 1993, the Public Service Academy provides specialized training and education in law enforcement, criminal justice, and emergency medical services.
How many students were enrolled during the first term?
The first term served 164 full-time students and 119 part-time and evening students.
When did the institution become South Florida State College?
The college officially adopted the name South Florida State College on July 1, 2012.