Standing In The Gap

Standing In The Gap

Welcome to Standing In The Gap, a presidential podcast hosted by Dr. Tonjua Williams, President of St. Petersburg College. Through candid conversations and personal stories from our highly esteemed guests and St. Petersburg College administrators and students, each voice embodies the ethos of Standing In The Gap—offering second chances, speaking up for those without a voice, and fostering opportunity for all. Join Dr. Tonjua Williams on a journey towards positive change in education and empowerment for our community - whether it's providing advocating for colleagues, supporting students, or amplifying voices. Tune in to be inspired by the power of education and mentorship in shaping a brighter future - let’s explore together the profound impact of supporting others by Standing In The Gap.

Episodes

23: Best of Standing In The Gap for Youth in Education & Mental Health

January 28, 2025 • 21 mins
This "Best Of" episode showcases powerful stories and actionable solutions that address challenges in education and mental health. From breaking barriers to college access and expanding scholarship opportunities to equipping youth with tools for empowerment, these SPC guests provide invaluable insights and strategies for driving change. The episode also features Ryan Quattlebaum’s inspiring perspective on courageous leadership and...
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CPA to CEO: How a Love for Service Transformed Beth Houghton's Career

January 21, 2025 • 5 mins
What does it take to lead with purpose and passion? In this inspiring conversation, we uncover how a career grounded in service and love for community transformed a CPA into a nonprofit CEO. From navigating law and accounting to finding her heart in advocacy for children, our guest shares invaluable advice for aspiring leaders, including the importance of pacing yourself and putting purpose first. Listen to the full episode here A...
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22: Best Of What It Takes To Be A True Leader

January 14, 2025 • 21 mins
In this special "Best Of" episode, delve into how St. Petersburg College faculty and guests embody the essence of a TRUE LEADER by empowering their communities and extending support to those in need. From addressing education barriers to empowering mental health solutions, let’s reflect on important moments that inspire, take action, and showcase resilience. With insights on collaboration and strategies for impactful support, this...
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Nonprofit Careers: Choosing Purpose Over Profit with Habitat for Humanity’s Mike Sutton

January 7, 2025 • 2 mins
In this thought-provoking segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams talks with Mike Sutton, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties, about finding purpose in the nonprofit world. Mike shares insights into balancing personal fulfillment and financial realities, dispelling myths around nonprofit salaries, and why he remains dedicated to Habitat’s mission. They discuss Habitat’s focus on sustainability, community investment...
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21: How SPC Faculty Are Standing In The Gap for Students

December 31, 2024 • 74 mins
How do educators bridge the gap between students' potential and their reality? In this episode, we sit down with an inspiring group of faculty from St. Petersburg College to explore the profound impact educators can have on their students' lives. Joining this conversation are: Susan Demers – Dean of Public Policy, Public Safety, Ethics, and Legal Studies Raquel Hairston – Principal of St. Petersburg Collegiate STEM High School ...
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Rebuilding the Village: How We Lost—and Can Regain—Community Trust with The Honorable Patrice Moore

December 24, 2024 • 3 mins
What happened to the strong sense of community we once had? In this heartfelt discussion, we explore the values of gratitude, giving back, and fostering trust with our neighbors. From lessons learned in childhood to the challenges of modern life, this segment examines how we can rebuild the bonds of community and support one another in meaningful ways. Listen to the full episode here Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/p...
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20: The Power of Mentorship: How Dr. Ernest McDonald Went From 6th Grade Dropout to Doctor

December 17, 2024 • 43 mins
In this inspiring episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Dr. Ernest McDonald to explore the themes of leadership, decision-making, and overcoming fear and inadequacy. Dr. McDonald shares his remarkable journey from dropping out of school in sixth grade to earning a doctorate in pharmacy and becoming a Clinical Pharmacist at Largo Medical Center. Through honest reflections, he discusses the challenges he faced, including financ...
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Why Construction is a Career You Shouldn’t Overlook | Joshua Bomstein

December 10, 2024 • 3 mins
In this segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams and Joshua Bomstein, President of Creative Contractors Inc., dive into the "war for talent" in the competitive real estate and construction market. They discuss the challenges of finding skilled workers, the importance of career and technical education, and how the construction industry offers rewarding, impactful careers. Discover what makes construction a viable career choice and how education...
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19: From Cradle to Career: Ensuring a Successful Start for Every Child with Beth Houghton

December 3, 2024 • 30 mins
In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Beth Houghton, CEO of the Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County (JWB), for an eye-opening discussion about supporting children and families. Beth shares JWB’s mission to create brighter futures by focusing on critical areas like early childhood development, mental health, and family well-being. From the astonishing fact that 80% of brain development occurs by age three to JWB’...
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Why Every Girl Deserves a Circle of Support Like Girl Scouts

November 26, 2024 • 8 mins
Why Girl Scouts? In this segment, we explore the unique power of Girl Scouts to create a supportive, non-competitive environment where girls can thrive. From building resilience and embracing uncertainty to fostering respectful disagreements and mental well-being, we discuss how Girl Scouts prepares girls to lead with empathy, curiosity, and confidence in today’s complex world. Listen to the full episode here Apple Podcasts: https...
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18: How Habitat for Humanity Empowers Families & Communities, with Mike Sutton

November 19, 2024 • 34 mins
In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Mike Sutton, the President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties to discuss the non-profit organization’s impactful work.  Mike shares how Habitat for Humanity's mission goes beyond simply building homes — delving into its holistic approach to empowering families through affordable homeownership. He explains how Habitat's sustainable housing model an...
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Free College Access for Poverty Zones: : How Florida is Addressing Educational Inequities | Braulio Colón

November 12, 2024 • 6 mins
In this segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Braulio Colón, Executive Director of the Florida College Access Network (FCAN), to discuss the pressing issues and innovative solutions in Florida's education system. Colón sheds light on the persistent gaps in access and achievement for Black students and emphasizes the need for targeted, data-driven strategies to address these disparities. The conversation highlights the promisi...
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17: Faith, Fairness, and the Bench: The Honorable Patrice Moore’s Impact on Justice & Youth

November 5, 2024 • 24 mins
In this powerful episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with The Honorable Patrice Moore, the first African American female judge in Florida's Sixth Circuit. Judge Moore opens up about her inspiring journey from aspiring electrical engineer to becoming a respected judge. She shares the challenges of law school, the moments that shaped her career, and the unwavering faith that carried her through it all. With heart and candor, Judge...
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When Tech and Humanity Collaborate: How AI & Robotics is Enhancing Healthcare

October 29, 2024 • 4 mins
In this insightful segment, Ryan Quattlebaum discusses how Advent Health is embracing emerging technologies in healthcare. He shares the innovative ways technology is being integrated into patient care, from AI-enhanced tools to robotic surgery, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balance between technology and human connection. Ryan illustrates how partnering cutting-edge technology with skilled professionals can rev...
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16: Giving Back, Building Up: Joshua Bomstein on Creating Lasting Structures in Community

October 22, 2024 • 28 mins
In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams engages with Joshua Bomstein, the President of Creative Contractors Inc., for a thought-provoking conversation about leadership, organizational culture, and the significance of community engagement. Josh shares his inspiring journey from Dunedin, Florida, discussing how his parents instilled in him a commitment to giving back to the community. He reflects on his volunteer work with the Holocaus...
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From Classroom to Career: Inside SPC’s Workforce Development Innovations & Initiatives

October 8, 2024 • 5 mins
In this segment, we delve into St. Petersburg College's leading role in workforce development and economic mobility. Join Dr. Tonjua Williams and the SPC faculty as they discuss the college’s initiatives to bridge the gap between education and career success. They explore the college's partnerships with industry leaders like Bank of America, which have led to high job placement rates and innovative learning environments like the Ch...
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15: Cultivating Confidence, Compassion, and Community: Mary Pat King's Vision for Girl Scouts

October 1, 2024 • 43 mins
In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Mary Pat King, CEO of Girl Scouts of West Central Florida, to explore the profound and lasting impact of Girl Scouts on young girls’ lives. Together, they delve into how the organization fosters confidence, leadership, and essential life skills, empowering girls to reach their fullest potential. From the entrepreneurial lessons of the iconic Girl Scout Cookie program to the critic...
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Writing in the Age of AI: Dawn Joyce on AI Tools Enhancing, Not Replacing, Communication Skills

September 24, 2024 • 3 mins
In this segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Dawn Joyce, a communications professor at SPC, to explore the integration of emerging technologies like ChatGPT and AI in writing instruction. Dawn addresses the challenges faced by adult learners, emphasizing the importance of understanding and utilizing these tools responsibly. Through engaging analogies and practical advice, she highlights how these technologies can assist stud...
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14: Empowering Florida's Future: Addressing Skills Gap and Supporting Low-Income Students with Braulio Colón

September 17, 2024 • 52 mins
In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Braulio Colón, Executive Director of the Florida College Access Network (FCAN), for a powerful discussion on education, equity, and economic growth. FCAN is dedicated to achieving Florida's ambitious goal of ensuring that 60% of adults hold high-quality degrees, credentials, or training by 2030. Under Braulio's leadership, the organization is at the forefront of bridging the skill...
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Embracing The Inevitability of Failure: Gary Hartfield on the Trials of Leadership

September 10, 2024 • 3 mins
In this segment, Gary Hartfield delves into the inevitability of failure and adversity in leadership and entrepreneurship. He shares personal anecdotes and powerful stories, including the challenges faced by Pastor TD Jakes, to illustrate how resilience and faith can help overcome setbacks. Gary emphasizes the importance of enduring trials as a necessary component of success and leadership. Listen to the full episode here Apple Po...
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