Hillsborough Community College logo

Hillsborough Community College

Tampa, FL

publicassociates

Quick Facts

We'll Get You There

1968
Founded
Public community college
Type
43,000
Total Students
$8M
Endowment
(2020)
Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: Ken Atwater

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Hillsborough Community College

HCC: Launching 43,000 students towards success and building a future sports hub.

As a vibrant public community college, Hillsborough Community College (HCC) stands as a vital educational gateway in Florida, serving a massive student body of 43,000 learners. Founded in 1968, HCC has steadfastly upheld its motto, "We'll Get You There," by providing accessible and impactful educational pathways under the leadership of President Ken Atwater. It's a place where diverse futures are forged, from career entry to university transfer, embodying a commitment to student achievement.

HCC holds a unique place in Florida's educational landscape, being one of the last community colleges established in the state. Historically, it broke new ground in 2008 by opening Hawk's Landing, its first residence hall, making it one of the rare community colleges to offer on-campus housing—a significant advantage for student life and experience. This commitment to supporting student needs beyond the classroom defines its journey and dedication to a holistic learning environment.

The future of Hillsborough Community College is particularly dynamic and forward-looking. Mark your calendars for July 1, 2025, when the institution will undergo a significant rebrand, streamlining its identity to simply "Hillsborough College." This evolution reflects a modern outlook and a broadened vision for its role in higher education, signalling its continued growth and adaptation to the needs of its community and students.

Perhaps most remarkably, HCC is at the forefront of a groundbreaking development that could reshape its Dale Mabry campus. In January 2026, the board of trustees approved initial steps to negotiate a potential partnership with the Tampa Bay Rays to develop a major sports complex, including a new stadium. This bold initiative promises an unparalleled and unique environment, offering extraordinary opportunities and an exciting future for students and the wider community alike, further enhancing the college experience.

Key Highlights

  • Serves a large student body of 43,000 learners annually.
  • Motto: "We'll Get You There" — a strong commitment to student success and goal achievement.
  • One of the youngest community colleges in Florida, founded in 1968.
  • Distinguished as one of the few community colleges with on-campus housing, offering its first residence hall, Hawk's Landing, in 2008.
  • Scheduled for a significant rebrand to 'Hillsborough College' on July 1, 2025.
  • Exploring a unique partnership to potentially develop a major sports complex and new stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays on its Dale Mabry campus, with initial negotiation steps approved.

Timeline

1968
Hillsborough Community College (HCC) was founded.
2008
Opened Hawk's Landing, its first residence hall.
2025
On July 1, announced rebrand to 'Hillsborough College'.
2026
On January 20, board of trustees voted to allow negotiation for Dale Mabry campus development with Tampa Bay Rays.
🏛️
58 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Ken Atwater
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Hillsborough Community College

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search