Port Huron, Mich.— The St. Clair County Community College (SC4) Board of Trustees has formally recognized Tom Obee as the 2025 SC4 Alumni of the Year, honoring his lifelong dedication to education, academic excellence, and service to the college and community.
Tom Obee began his academic journey at Port Huron Junior College, now St. Clair County Community College, in 1961. As a student, he distinguished himself as an honors scholar and campus leader, serving in student government, contributing as co-editor of the college newspaper, working as a student librarian, and earning membership in Phi Theta Kappa.
In 1963, Obee graduated as only the second student in the institution’s history to achieve a perfect 4.0 grade point average and was named Male Student of the Year. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin.
Obee returned to SC4 in 1967 as an instructor and dedicated 45 years to the college as a professor of English and Philosophy. During his tenure, he inspired generations of students through his passion for teaching and commitment to academic rigor. He also served as the Phi Theta Kappa advisor at SC4 for 35 years, mentoring students and fostering academic achievement and leadership.
His contributions to teaching and student success have been recognized through numerous honors, including the Blessinger Award for Excellence in Teaching, the Distinguished Faculty Award, and the Phi Theta Kappa Alumnus Award.
Even in retirement, Obee remains actively engaged with the College and local community. He participates in retiree events, presents for the St. Clair Senior Study Group, serves as a lector at Holy Family Church, and shares his knowledge through a question-and-answer column focused on Catholic beliefs.
The SC4 Board of Trustees adopted the Resolution of Recognition on November 13, 2025, celebrating Tom Obee’s enduring impact on the college and recognizing him as a model alumnus whose legacy continues to shape the SC4 community.
St Clair County Community College (SC4) was founded in 1923 and is the only public higher education institution in the thumb of Michigan. SC4 is a comprehensive community college that provides certificates and degrees for employable skills and college credits that can be transferred to a four-year college or university. The college provides collegiate arts and athletics for the area and has been an asset for students and the Port Huron community for over one hundred years.
