Chipola College Remembers Distinguished Alumnus and Benefactor Tom Gould

Chipola College remembers with gratitude Thomas “Tom” Gould, a member of the Class of 1966, former Outstanding Alumnus of the Year, and longtime benefactor whose generosity and commitment to education have left a lasting legacy at the college.

Gould, who passed away April 25, 2026, at the age of 79, grew up in Greensboro, Florida, and attended Chipola before continuing his education at Florida State University. He went on to enjoy a distinguished career in retail leadership, ultimately serving as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Younkers Department Stores.

Despite his professional accomplishments, Gould maintained a strong connection to his educational roots. In 2017, Chipola proudly recognized him as its Outstanding Alumnus of the Year, honoring both his career achievements and his dedication to the college.

Gould often spoke of the influence of Chipola business professor Fred Peters, whom he credited with teaching him the importance of honesty, integrity and accountability. Those principles became guiding values throughout his professional and personal life.  In recognition of the profound impact Peters had on his life, Gould established the Fred Peters Scholarship through the Chipola College Foundation. The scholarship stands as a lasting tribute to his former professor and reflects Gould's belief in the power of education to change lives.

In 2024, Gould joined fellow Chipola Class of 1966 alumni Robert “Buck” Miller, Charlie Reid and Robert Trammell in launching the college's Legacy Fundraising Campaign. Their collective efforts helped secure significant commitments to support future generations of students and strengthen the college's long-term mission.  As a founding member of Chipola's Legacy Society, Gould understood the importance of investing in opportunities that would continue long after his lifetime.

“One of the most meaningful parts of Tom’s story is that he never forgot the professor or the college that helped shape his future,” said Dr. Sarah Clemmons, President of Chipola College. “Through establishing the Fred Peters Scholarship and helping launch the Legacy Fundraising Campaign, Tom demonstrated his understanding that the true value of education extends far beyond the classroom. His generosity and commitment to giving back have created a lasting legacy that will continue to impact Chipola students for generations to come.”

Gould's life reflected the transformative power of education and the lasting influence of those who invest in the success of others. His accomplishments in business brought distinction to his alma mater, while his generosity ensured that future students would have opportunities to pursue their own goals.

Chipola College joins the Gould family, friends and all whose lives he touched in honoring his memory and celebrating a life defined by leadership, friendship and generosity.

In keeping with Mr. Gould's wishes, memorial contributions may be directed to the Chipola College Foundation in his memory.  Please indicate on the memo line: “In memory of Tom Gould,” Attention Chipola College Foundation, 3094 Indian Circle, Marianna, FL 32446. https://www.chipola.edu/foundation/donation-information/