SPC Counsel and Champion Joe Lang Passes Away

4/26/2018

Joseph "Joe" Lang began his time at St. Petersburg College as a student leader at the St. Petersburg/Gibbs Campus in the late 1950's, and over the next 70 years, proved himself to be a loyal friend of the College. Mr. Lang, a distinguished local attorney who served as counsel to the College's Board of Trustees, passed away on April 21, 2018 at the age of 80.

Mr. Lang, who practiced law in St. Petersburg for 53 years, graduated from St. Petersburg Junior College and went on to Duke University, where he graduated in 1961. He then went on to the University of Florida College of Law. A firm believer and champion of the access to education provided by community colleges for all, he never cut his ties to SPC and remained a strong supporter and advisor. His counsel was highly trusted and sought after over the years by four college presidents, numerous trustees and college staff alike.

"Student success was such a huge focus for him," Former SPC President Carl Kuttler said. "He and his wife Elsie contributed to so many scholarships through the foundation to help students in need meet their educational goals."

Mr. Lang's commitment to the College was so appreciated that the former Student Union at SPC was named in his honor. He served on the St. Petersburg College Alumni Association and regularly participated in graduations. He was also a member of the College's Hall of Distinction and was named the College's Most Outstanding Alumnus in 1990.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent in his name to the St. Petersburg College Foundation.