Hillsborough Community College (HCC) may soon undergo a name change. Originally established as Hillsborough Junior College in 1968, it was renamed to its current title in 1970. A proposal to change the name to Hillsborough State College is currently pending legislative approval for 2025. Many have long suggested that the institution should be recognized as a college, making this potential change both expected and exciting.
The Florida Legislature is considering a proposed education bill, SB 1624, which seeks to rename HCC as Hillsborough State College. This change aligns with a broader trend among Florida’s community colleges transitioning to “state college” designations, reflecting expanded academic offerings, including baccalaureate degrees.
With five campuses across Hillsborough County, HCC now serves over 43,000 students, offering a variety of associate and bachelor’s degree programs. This proposed name change is part of a statewide initiative to standardize college names within the Florida College System. Similar transitions have occurred, such as Tallahassee Community College becoming Tallahassee State College.
If the bill passes, HCC will join other state colleges, losing its distinction as the only institution in Florida with the “community college” designation. Supporters of the bill argue that the new name would better represent the college’s expanded academic offerings and enhance its appeal to prospective students. The “state college” designation is believed to provide a broader range of educational opportunities, including four-year degree programs, attracting a more diverse student population. Additionally, proponents believe this change would help alleviate any stigma associated with the term “community college.”
Conversely, some express concerns about how this change might affect the college’s identity and its connection to the community. There are worries that removing “community” from the name could signify a shift away from the institution’s mission to provide accessible education to local residents.
The bill was filed by Senator Alexis Catudal and Representative John Temple and is currently under review by the Senate Education Postsecondary Committee. If approved, the name change will take effect in the upcoming academic year, marking a significant shift in the college’s history.
As the legislative process unfolds, students, faculty, alumni, and community members are encouraged to stay informed and engage in discussions regarding this proposed change.