Responding to Local Workforce Needs: Dr. Jim Henningsen

The Catalyst

With limited funding opportunities and aging facilities, CF has overcome a number of challenges to create new programs and degree tracks to align with a growing Ocala Metro area. Hear from Dr. Jim Henningsen, President of College of Central Florida as he shares how CF has defied convention to become a state leader in responding to the workforce development needs of our community. Learn more about the College of Central Florida the CF Foundation and the Appleton Museum of Art.

Nonprofits featured in the episode: United Way of Marion County and the Humane Society of Marion County.
About Dr. Jim Henningsen:
Dr. Jim Henningsen has served as President of the College of Central Florida since January 2012. With a current enrollment of nearly 9,000 students, CF has been named among the top 15 percent of colleges in the nation four times by the Aspen Institute for Community College Excellence and is currently ranks in the top 1 percent for affordability.

Born in North Bennington, Vermont, Jim earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Vermont. He started his career in higher education at Valencia State College, after relocating to Orlando. Jim earned his master’s degree in business administration and doctorate degree in educational leadership from the University of Central Florida. After departing from Valencia, he held leadership roles at Seminole State College in academic affairs, student success, and student affairs.
Jim serves on the board of the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership, the Humane Society of Marion County, and Chair of the United Way of Marion County. Nationally, he has served on the Board of Directors for the American Association of Community Colleges. He currently serves on the Commission on Public Relations Advocacy and Advancement and is a member of the Program Initiatives Workforce Training for the ACCE. He is a member of Association of Florida Colleges Council of Presidents and has served as a past chair.
Jim and his wife, Jeanne have one daughter. He has a passion for collecting cars, his favorite being his 61 Triumph TR3A named Neville.
The Catalyst is hosted by the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership, sponsored by Douglas Law Firm and recorded live at Wiley Productions podcast studios, located in Ocala, Florida. New episodes, guests, and perspectives of leadership premiere twice a month. Follow us on Apple, Amazon, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy podcasts.