Milton O. Jones, Ph. D., founding president of Pasco-Hernando State College passed away Sunday Jan. 28 at the age of 90.
Jones, a St. Petersburg Junior College dean, was named then Pasco-Hernando Community College's first president in 1972. Charged with serving a diverse, 1,200-square-mile district, Jones and 11 dedicated employees worked around the clock to establish the new college-holding classes in schools, storefronts, churches, libraries and neighboring Saint Leo College (now, Saint Leo University).
Jones served the institution as president for 22 years, retiring in 1994.
"Dr. Jones had superhuman qualities—without his tireless efforts to establish the college in 1972, PHSC, quite literally, might not exist today," said Timothy Beard, Ph.D., president. "His influence on PHSC and our district is immeasurable, and his incredible contributions to the college and community will never be forgotten."
During his presidency Jones transformed PHSC as "a college without walls" to an up and coming institution with campuses in New Port Richey, Brooksville and Dade City.
Jones was a testament to the foundational values of the institution he helped build promoting community, excellence, integrity, success, and equity throughout his legacy.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Dr. Milton O. Jones, Ph.D. Scholarship at the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation. Donations can be made online at giving.phsc.edu or by mail to the PHSC Foundation at 10230 Ridge Road New Port Richey, FL 34654.