Every year during Black History Month, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor gathers with neighbors in St. Petersburg to recognize local extraordinary individuals and honor their service in the Congressional Record. This year, she celebrated the life and legacy of Dr. David T. Welch, and she was joined by his family.  Dr. Welch was a champion for civil rights, education and health care.  His remarkable career in public service and many contributions to our area stand as a testament to his tremendous character. 

Statement for Congressional Record

Mr. Speaker: I rise today to celebrate Black History Month and to honor the life of an extraordinary leader of the Tampa Bay community, Dr. David Welch. His remarkable career in public service and his many contributions to our community stand as a testament to his tremendous character.

Dr. Welch was born in St. Petersburg, Florida. As a young man, Dr. Welch served his country in the U.S. Army Airborne during the Korean War. After the war, Dr. Welch graduated from Florida A&M University and later obtained a doctorate in education from Nova University. Teaching was a lifelong passion for Mr. Welch, who inspired countless young minds during his time as a teacher at Gibbs Junior College and later on at St. Petersburg Vocational-Technical Institute.

Once Dr. Welch began his career, he quickly emerged as a business and community leader. He founded Welch Tax Services and Accounting which assisted numerous local entrepreneurs and helped foster a thriving business environment in downtown St. Petersburg. As Director of Fiscal Affairs at St. Petersburg Vocational-Technical Institute, he used his adept diplomatic skills to resolve the 116-day sanitation workers’ strike of 1968. He would continue to employ his ability to bring people together as the co-chair of the biracial Community Alliance, an organization dedicated to relieving racial tensions in the area.

In 1981, Dr. Welch became the second African American to serve on the St. Petersburg City Council. As a three-term council member, Dr. Welch championed development projects, and was one of the driving forces behind what are today some of St. Petersburg’s most prominent landmarks. His efforts were instrumental in the development of Tropicana Field, the Pier, and the Bayfront Center. Dr. Welch was also a strong supporter of municipal interest-free loans for housing which led to major renovations in St. Petersburg. His outgoing nature and diplomatic manner earned him respect and results throughout his tenure as a council member.

While working diligently as a public servant, Dr. Welch continued to remain active in education and supporting local businesses through his office. Dr. Welch was always eager to mentor aspiring leaders and took an active interest in the youth of the community.

On September 16, 2013, Dr. Welch passed away at the age of 85. His legacy of service and leadership are an inspiration for all people throughout this great nation. His commitment to education, economic development, and equality will be forever remembered and appreciated. Mr. Speaker, I join the Tampa Bay community in thanking Dr. David Welch for his lifelong service to the State of Florida.