Pictured: SCF President Tommy Gregory with Manatee Chamber President & CEO Jacki Dezelski at the July Headliners luncheon. Photo courtesy of Paula Rodriguez-Saenz

The Manatee Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation (EDC), hosted its July Headliners Luncheon on Wednesday, July 10, featuring Tommy Gregory, the newly appointed seventh president of the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF). Held from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM, the event brought together local business leaders and educators to discuss the region's future of higher education and workforce development.

Gregory, who began his tenure at SCF on July 1, delivered an inspiring speech titled "Shaping Our Workforce: The Future of Higher Education in Our Region." He outlined his vision for the college and emphasized the critical role SCF plays in building the local workforce. "We are building America," Gregory stated, highlighting the diverse array of programs offered by SCF, from commercial driver's licenses (CDL) to nursing and radiography, as well as various associate degrees and workforce certificates. The luncheon served as an opportunity for Gregory to connect with the business community and share his goals for SCF, which serves over 10,000 college credit students annually across its campuses in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and Venice, with plans for a new campus in Parrish. Additionally, more than 11,000 individuals participate in SCF's professional development and personal enrichment programs each year.

Gregory's speech reflected his enthusiasm and commitment to SCF's mission. He praised the leadership team at SCF, including Dr. Probstfeld, his predecessor, and various key staff members, for their dedication and planning for the future. Gregory also highlighted the college's economic impact, noting a budget of $102 million and an annual regional economic impact of $432 million. One of the key initiatives Gregory discussed was the expansion of SCF's presence in the Parrish area to meet the growing needs of the community. With $27 million already secured in state funding, SCF plans to break ground on a new campus next year, with a goal of completing a 40,000-45,000 square foot building to serve the burgeoning population in eastern Manatee County.

The luncheon was not only an opportunity for Gregory to present his vision but also a platform for engaging in discussions and valuable networking among attendees. Gregory emphasized the importance of partnerships and collaborations with local businesses and other educational institutions. "We're here to help you," he said, encouraging attendees to reach out and explore potential collaborations with SCF. Gregory also highlighted the 26 West Center, an entrepreneurial hub at SCF that supports aspiring business owners in launching and growing their ventures. He urged those with entrepreneurial ambitions to visit the center and take advantage of the resources available.

In closing, Gregory reiterated SCF's commitment to meeting the needs of the community and ensuring that students have access to world-class education without leaving the region. He invited attendees to share their ideas and needs with SCF, emphasizing that the college is dedicated to serving as a vital workforce engine for the local economy. The Manatee Chamber of Commerce's July Headliners Luncheon provided an engaging forum for discussing the future of higher education and workforce development, with Tommy Gregory at the helm of SCF, poised to lead the institution into a new era of growth and community impact.

Pictured: SCF President Tommy Gregory with Manatee Chamber President & CEO Jacki Dezelski at the July Headliners luncheon. Photo courtesy of Paula Rodriguez-Saenz