Saint Leo Creating 90 Jobs At Channelside, Tampa

Saint Leo University, which recently opened classrooms at its new location in the Channelside district of Tampa, is boosting the local economy by creating 90 jobs at its new location. The university has leased 16,000 square feet in Channelside at the Grand Central at Kennedy for its Tampa Education Center, which will provide working adults with educational opportunities. The center features five classrooms, as well as a support center for the university's online students. Classes begin Aug. 29th; therefore many of the jobs have been filled.

"Tampa provides a great opportunity in terms of the kind of professionals that we were interested in having as part of our organization," says Kathryn McFarland, VP of enrollment and online programs at Saint Leo. "We've been able to get a lot of high quality professionals who are already making a big contribution to the effort."

While many of the positions have been filled, there are still some positions available. "The positions yet to be filled are for people to work in the Student Support Center," says Jo-Ann Johnston of Saint Leo. "The staff jobs there cover five specific functions; enrollment counseling, academic advising, financial services, admission and veterans outreach. Those interested should consult our website for specific listings and credentials."

In addition to job creation, the opening of the Tampa Education Center will boost the local economy as well. "In terms of the impact on the economy, we're looking at more than $4 million sent directly into salary and benefits," McFarland says. "This is a way for us to be a stronger partner in the Tampa community."

Writer: Kimberly Patterson
Source: Kathryn McFarland and Jo-Ann Johnston, Saint Leo University