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Pensacola, Fla. (Oct. 2, 2025) — The Pensacola State College (PSC) Foundation is proud to announce the establishment of the Vincent John Whibbs Sr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship, a $50,000 fund created to support students pursuing careers in automotive or diesel-related programs at PSC. The scholarship includes a $12,500 matching contribution from the Pensacola State College Alumni Association.
Surrounded by family, including his wife Rachael, siblings, children and grandchildren, John Paul “JP” Whibbs shared his inspiration for establishing this endowed scholarship. Though he never attended college, JP’s father, Vincent “Vince” John Whibbs Sr. supported many students in their pursuit of higher education. In some ways, his father’s example inspired JP to endow this scholarship. Over 20 Whibbs family members joined JP to honor the legacy of their patriarch, Mayor Emeritus Vincent Whibbs Sr., a devoted public servant, successful businessman, and tireless advocate for the Pensacola community.
Elected to the Pensacola City Council in 1976, Whibbs went on to serve seven consecutive terms as mayor from 1977 to 1991, making him the longest-serving mayor in the city’s history. During his 14-year tenure, he oversaw numerous transformative projects, including the construction of a new City Hall and police headquarters, the expansion of Pensacola Regional Airport, and the revitalization of downtown Pensacola—laying the foundation for the vibrant cityscape enjoyed today.
Upon retirement, Whibbs was formally named Mayor Emeritus of Pensacola, a title he held with great pride and responsibility until his passing. His legacy is rooted in service, civic leadership, and a deep commitment to building a better future for all residents.
In 1958, Whibbs opened Vince Whibbs Pontiac, in Pensacola. What began as a single-brand dealership grew into one of the region’s most respected automotive businesses. Today, the dealership operates as a premier provider of Cadillac, Buick, Pontiac, GM Truck and Saab vehicles.
Vince Whibbs previously served as a member of the Board of Trustees at Pensacola Junior College, the predecessor to PSC, and contributed to numerous boards and civic efforts over his lifetime. The Whibbs family has supported PSC for more than 38 years, and JP Whibbs currently serves on the PSC Alumni Board of Directors.
“This scholarship reflects Vince Whibbs’ enduring passion for public service and workforce development,” said Dr. Ed Meadows, president of Pensacola State College. “By supporting students in automotive and diesel programs, as well as other related fields, we are investing in the skilled trades that drive our region forward—just as Vince Whibbs did throughout his career.”
The Vincent John Whibbs Sr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship will provide annual financial support to qualified students enrolled in PSC’s automotive or diesel technology programs, empowering them to complete their education and pursue meaningful careers in high-demand industries.
For more information about the scholarship or to make a contribution, please visit www.pensacolastate.edu/foundation or call (850) 484-1560.