10/28/2026
A HISTORIC DAY FOR GEORGE STONE TECHNICAL COLLEGE — HONORING THE PAST, INVESTING IN THE FUTURE!
A $2 MILLION GIFT THAT WILL TRANSFORM LIVES FOR GENERATIONS TO COME!
Wednesday marked a truly historic milestone for George Stone Technical College!
Escambia County Public Schools Superintendent Keith Leonard announced the establishment of the George G. and Pattie O. Stone Endowed Scholarship Fund, made possible by an extraordinary $2 MILLION donation from an anonymous donor!
This incredible gift represents the LARGEST donation to George Stone Technical College since the institution was established in 1968!
This scholarship fund will provide additional financial assistance to GSTC students, helping remove barriers to education and creating opportunities for individuals to pursue career training and build brighter futures.
We were especially honored to have their children, along with their families, join us for this historic celebration. Their presence made this special occasion even more meaningful as we reflected on the incredible legacy their parents left behind. We were particularly grateful to Bruce Stone and Bob Stone, sons of George and Pattie Stone, who participated in the program and shared heartfelt reflections about their father's life, his dedication to education, and his lasting impact on our community. Hearing their personal stories reminded us that George Stone was more than the name on our building—he was a devoted family man, educator, and public servant whose vision continues to change lives nearly 60 years later. What an honor it was to celebrate this remarkable gift alongside the family whose name and legacy will forever be part of George Stone Technical College!
Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a wonderful reception catered by the talented students of George Stone Technical College! What a perfect way to celebrate this historic occasion while showcasing the skills, creativity, and dedication of our students. We are so proud of the outstanding job they did in helping make this memorable day even more special!
But what makes this gift even more meaningful is the legacy behind the names.
THE LEGACY OF GEORGE G. AND PATTIE O. STONE
George Glennard Stone (1923–1966) was a dedicated educator, farmer, World War II veteran, and Florida legislator whose passion for vocational education helped shape the future of workforce training in Escambia County and throughout Florida.
Born in Atmore, Alabama, and raised in Davisville, Florida, Stone proudly served his country during World War II as a combat infantryman, earning the Combat Infantryman Badge and two campaign battle stars.
After graduating from the University of Florida in 1947 with a degree in agriculture, he began his career teaching vocational agriculture at Molino Junior High School, Tate High School, and Ernest Ward High School.
His dedication to education eventually led him to serve as Director of Vocational Education for Escambia County Public Schools in 1965.
Stone also served five terms in the Florida House of Representatives, where he became a strong advocate for expanding educational opportunities.
A VISION THAT BECAME A REALITY
In 1965, George Stone introduced and successfully secured passage of legislation providing millions of dollars in state funding to establish vocational education centers throughout Florida.
That legislation directly led to the creation of the technical college that proudly bears his name today.
Following his untimely death in 1966, the institution was named in his honor. George Stone Technical College opened its doors to students in the fall of 1968.
A FAMILY COMMITTED TO SERVICE
George Stone's wife, Pattie O. Stone, was also a dedicated teacher and civic activist. Together, they raised five children in Walnut Hill, Florida, while building a legacy rooted in education, community involvement, and service to others.
Their commitment to helping others continues to inspire the work we do at George Stone Technical College.
A LEGACY THAT CONTINUES TO TRANSFORM LIVES
Nearly six decades after GSTC first opened its doors, the establishment of the George G. and Pattie O. Stone Endowed Scholarship Fund brings their remarkable story full circle.
George Stone believed that vocational education could open doors, strengthen communities, and change lives.
Today, a historic $2 million gift will help carry that vision forward for future generations of students.
We extend our deepest appreciation to the anonymous donor whose extraordinary generosity honors the Stone family's legacy while investing in the dreams and futures of our students.
At George Stone Technical College, our mission is: TO CREATE OPPORTUNITIES THAT TRANSFORM LIVES.
George G. Stone helped lay the foundation for that mission long before our doors opened. Today, through this remarkable gift, his vision continues to create opportunities for a greater future.
What a proud moment in the history of George Stone Technical College!
Honoring our history. Celebrating our legacy. Transforming lives.
GOOD THINGS ARE HAPPENING AT GEORGE STONE!
