Lars Hafner Email & Phone Number

Dr. Lars Hafner has a wealth of experience and institutional knowledge in education and government/politics. His extensive work in government includes serving in the Florida House of Representatives for 12 years as well as consulting on countless local and state campaigns and national initiatives. He is lauded as an innovator in education and most recently served as President of the State College of Florida (SCF). As President, he worked extensively with state and local governments on workforce, policy and budgetary issues. He transitioned a two-year college into a four-year state college offering workforce baccalaureate degrees. Hafner also started the first of its kind 6-12th grade charter school for “first time in college” generation students. Prior to serving as SCF president, Dr. Hafner served as the Provost at St. Petersburg College’s St. Petersburg/Gibbs campus, as well as a Vice President for education and student services. He co-conceived, designed and promoted the University Partnership Center (UPC) at St. Petersburg College, which hosted 18 colleges and universities offering 84 full-degree programs including bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees. During his tenure in both government and education, he developed a reputation for fiscal prudence and helped write, negotiate, debate and pass multibillion-dollar budgets. Dr. Hafner authored and led to passage significant pieces of legislation in the areas of education, ethics, workforce, health, environment and human services. For his work on these and other issues, he received numerous awards. His knowledge, strategic approach and access to resources makes him an asset when it comes to working with governmental entities and community organizations. Hafner also does work as the political expert for WTSP Channel 10, Tampa Bay’s CBS affiliate, located in the 11th largest media market. He does on air analysis of federal, state and local politics both policy issues and campaign.In 2021 Dr. Hafner was awarded the Key to the City of St. Petersburg, Florida by Mayor Rick Kriseman. This is the highest recognition that the city gives.In 2022 Dr. Hafner I was honored to receive the Professor Emeritus award from St Petersburg College.

Listed skills include Human Services, Local Government, Public Speaking, Social Media, and 3 others.