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Through its new membership in the Association of American Universities (AAU), the
University of South Florida is now considered in the nation’s top 3 percent of four-year
universities. USF’s unprecedented milestone will have a ripple effect across Tampa Bay and the state of Florida. According to
the AAU, the world’s brightest faculty, staff and students are historically known
to gravitate to AAU universities located in metropolitan areas. Tampa Bay business
and community leaders applaud the extraordinary economic benefits that this will bring to the region.
Bob Rohrlack, president and CEO of the Tampa Bay Chamber: “USF already plays a key role working with businesses in our region to help bring
and grow thousands of high-paying jobs in our community. As an AAU member, USF Bulls
are now even better positioned to help drive economic development in our region, and
that benefits the entire community! USF’s trajectory continues to exceed goals and
has a huge impact strengthening our local economy.”
Marcus Greene, chair of the St. Petersburg Economic Development Corp.: “This recognition highlights the role of USF as a pillar of our economy, making our
region even more attractive to businesses considering relocation or expansion in Tampa
Bay. The university’s excellence is a draw for companies seeking workforce talent
and research capabilities. Innovative offerings, like global research at the College
of Marine Science and the Muma College of Business’s Fintech Center of Excellence,
provide cutting-edge opportunities for businesses to partner with the university on
groundbreaking initiatives. We are delighted that the Association of American Universities
recognizes USF’s achievements and are proud of the university’s exceptional contributions
to our community.”
Heather Kasten, president and CEO of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce: “Congratulations to the University of South Florida for joining the prestigious AAU
and being recognized for providing a pipeline of quality graduates and creating opportunities
for business partnerships in our local area.”
Craig J. Richard, president and CEO of the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council: “This is a tremendous achievement that puts USF among the ranks of the country’s
most prestigious universities. AAU membership will strengthen our region’s national
reputation as a top destination for research and innovation and it will boost our
talent attraction and retention efforts and business recruitment activities. Congratulations
to President Law and the entire USF family of faculty members, staff, students and
alumni!”
Mayor Ken Welch, city of St. Petersburg: “The acceptance of the University of South Florida into the Association of American
Universities is a historic and well-deserved designation. As a proud ‘Bull,’ I’m thrilled
that my alma mater is joining the ranks of such esteemed research universities across
North America. As mayor, I’m even more excited about what this means for the future
of USF and its role in the city of St. Petersburg. Like USF, St. Petersburg’s growth
is paving the way in delivering impactful, innovative and inclusive progress. I look
forward to our continued partnership and commitment to improving the lives of those
we serve.”
Joe Lopano, CEO of Tampa International Airport: “Congrats on joining the Association of American Universities! This is wonderful
news for USF and our entire community. We’re proud of the University’s continued success
and celebrate this milestone alongside of you.”
John Couris, president and CEO of Tampa General Hospital: “We are proud to partner every day with USF to provide world-class care across our
community and beyond. We know that USF’s inclusion as an AAU member and its recognition
as a leading U.S. academic institution will strengthen our collective ability to drive
innovation, propel breakthroughs in discovery, and improve the health outcomes for
patients here and around the world. We congratulate President Law, the USF Board of
Trustees, our colleagues at USF Health, and the entire USF community. As an alum of
the USF Muma College of Business, I am one proud bull.”
Archie Collins, president and CEO of Tampa Electric: “Congratulations to USF on the university’s acceptance into the prestigious Association
of American Universities. This milestone is a testament to the university’s commitment
to research excellence and to student success, which Tampa Electric has seen first-hand
throughout a long-standing partnership that is focused on creating cutting-edge solutions
for a smarter energy future. We are thrilled that USF is receiving this well-deserved
honor, and we look forward to seeing how AAU membership further catalyzes the impact
USF has on our region.”
Haresh Patel, executive director of Business Services and Amgen Capability Center
site lead: “Congratulations, USF on joining the Association of American Universities. Five years
ago, when Amgen put down roots in Tampa, we made a commitment to extend our footprint
within the local community, develop a diverse pipeline of talent, and create strategic
relationships with ‘research-intensive universities.’ As the Amgen Foundation reimagines
how students access and experience science learning, we are proud that our work with
the university through the Amgen Biotech Experience will continue to help shape the
future of higher education, science and innovation.”
National Academy of Inventors: “Congratulations to our founding NAI member institution, University of South Florida.”
Florida Consortium of Metropolitan Research Universities: “Congratulations to our friends at the University of South Florida becoming the first
members of the Florida Consortium to join the Association of American Universities.
This is a big deal. #HornsUP.”
U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor: “Congratulations University of South Florida for being one of the top tier research
universities in the country by the Associaton of American Univerities. Keep up the
great work. You make us proud. Go Bulls.”
U.S. Rep. Laurel Lee: “Congratulations to the University of South Florida for joining the Association of
American Universities! This is a tremendous accomplishment for the university’s students
and staff to formally be recognized as a top research institute, showcasing USF’s
commitment to excellence. USF continues to be a global powerhouse, shaping the future
of higher education, science, and innovation for generations to come. Congratulations
again – Tampa Bay and the entire state of Florida are proud of you.”
U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan: “Congratulations to the University of South Florida for joining the Association of
American Universities. As a member of the most prestigious higher education association,
USF will have more opportunities to pursue groundbreaking research and attract academic
talent. Go Bulls!”
Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo: “I’m so proud of the achievements of USF. Their impact in the state is felt in so
many ways including through their expanding pipeline of talent and research that is
helping grow Florida’s economy. Congratulations to the Bulls community on this well-deserved
recognition!”
Florida House Speaker Paul Renner: “Achieving membership in the AAU is a testament to USF’s longstanding commitment
to student success, world-class research and faculty excellence. Joining this prestigious
association positions the university to compete for the best talent nationally and
accelerates the economic development of the Tampa Bay region and the state of Florida.
This is a very proud moment for our state.”
Sen. Joe Gruters, Florida Senate: “This is awesome news for USF. Congratulations to everyone who contributed to this
effort including USF President Rhea Law, the USF Board of Trustees, the students and
all alumni. Proud to be a USF alum.”
Sen. Nick DiCeglie, Florida Senate: “Congratulations to the faculty, staff, and students at the University of South Florida
who made this invitation possible. President Rhea Law has done an excellent job leading
this university and solidifying USF’s status as a premier academic institution.”
Former Florida House Speaker Chris Sprowls: “The University of South Florida’s invitation to join the AAU demonstrates the university’s
commitment to excellence and its meteoric rise over the past few years. Go Bulls!”
Brian Lamb, chair of the Florida Board of Governors: “For many years, the University of South Florida has changed lives through research,
education, and innovation. As a former chair of their board of trustees I’m proud
to see USF achieve membership in the prestigious AAU. This historic accomplishment
is a tremendous milestone for USF, Tampa Bay, and this great state. Membership in
the AAU will provide students and faculty with new academic and research opportunities
that seek to address global challenges, creating a transformational impact on generations
to come. Congratulations to President Law, Chair Weatherford, and the entire USF community.
Go Bulls!”
Ray Rodrigues, chancellor of the State University System of Florida: “Congratulations to the University of South Florida for achieving this significant
milestone. USF has been relentless in their pursuit of academic excellence and has
been a national leader in student success and research along the way. The trajectory
of higher education in Florida is unparalleled and this accomplishment is a shining
example of that achievement.”
Alan Levine, chair of the Florida Board of Governors Strategic Planning Committee: “We all knew the University of South Florida was elite, but now the elite say USF
is elite! This Gator is a proud Bull today!”
Rob Higgins, executive director of the Tampa Bay Sport Commission: “HUGE accomplishment! Congratulations to Will Weatherford, President Rhea Law and
the countless others over the years who helped make this happen! What a great day
for our alma mater!”
Mike Aresco, commissioner of the American Athletic Conference: “I would like to congratulate President Rhea Law and the entire University of South
Florida community on the University’s acceptance into the prestigious Association
of American Universities. This announcement is the culmination of many years of outstanding
leadership and innovation that has transformed a relatively young university into
a national leader in research and education.”
Paul J. Luna, president and CEO of Helios Education Foundation: “Congratulations to the University of South Florida (USF) for being named to the
prestigious Association of American Universities. Helios Education Foundation has
been a proud partner of USF for nearly two decades, and we look forward to reaching
even greater heights as the university advances innovation and research.”
Brian Auld, chair of the Tampa Bay Partnership, president of the Tampa Bay Rays and
vice chair of the Tampa Bay Rowdies: “Congratulations to President Law and the University of South Florida for this outstanding
accomplishment. Membership in the AAU is a distinguished honor that will continue
to raise the profile of USF and the Tampa Bay region. Ultimately, this type of national
recognition can lead to an increase of residents, businesses, faculty and staff who
will consider Florida when searching for a vibrant community in which to live, work
and play.”
Alison Barlow, executive director of the St. Petersburg Innovation District: “Achieving AAU status creates a waterfall effect for USF. Increasing the research
portfolio attracts top-caliber faculty and labels existing faculty as experts in their
fields. That creates exciting new opportunities for high-performing students, which
builds our workforce pipeline. It’s a huge win for everyone in our area.”
Jason Mathis, CEO of the St. Petersburg Downtown Partnership: “This is a huge point of pride for our entire community. We already know that USF
is a leading research institution. Being invited to be part of this respected academic
group sends a powerful message to entrepreneurs who want to grow their business in
St. Pete or the larger region.”
Alice Bessette, executive director of Leadership Tampa Bay: “Congratulations to the University of South Florida for this incredible accomplishment.
Leadership Tampa Bay is thrilled to have such a valuable partnership with the University
of South Florida and look forward to continued collaboration!”
Marlene Spalten, president and CEO of Community Foundation Tampa Bay: “USF rightly belongs among elite US Universities. Our community is exceedingly proud
of the university’s academic excellence, its students and alumni, and its faculty
and administration! Congratulations!”
David Pizzo, market president (West Florida) of Florida Blue: “This is an incredible achievement for the University of South Florida and entire
Tampa Bay community. We are tremendously proud of Florida Blue’s long-standing partnership
with the University, this esteemed AAU designation is well deserved. Congratulations
to President Rhea Law, the board of trustees, faculty and staff, and entire student
body, Go Bulls.”
President Emerita Judy Genshaft: “I am overjoyed that the University of South Florida is now a member of the esteemed
Association of American Universities. This is a journey that USF has traveled for
more than 15 years, and I always knew that the university would one day achieve this
extraordinary milestone. I extend my sincere congratulations to President Law and
the rest of the USF community on this well-deserved honor.”
Carol and Frank Morsani: “We have loved watching the University of South Florida grow its size, reputation,
influence and excellence in all areas for the last 45 years,” said Carol and Frank
Morsani. The couple made their first gift to USF in 1978 and support every facet of
the university community from the USF Health College of Medicine that bears their
name to student scholarships, business leadership, and the lead gift for the on-campus
stadium. “This recognition from the AAU puts USF exactly where it belongs as a proud
member of our nation’s most renowned universities.”
Rick Piccolo, president and CEO of the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, chair
of the USF Sarasota-Manatee Campus Board and member of the USF Board of Trustees: “Congratulations to the USF community on this extraordinary achievement! Throughout
the years, our university has served as a catalyst for regional growth, driving economic
development, and fostering meaningful partnerships with businesses and organizations.
This is a proud moment that extends to all of USF and their alumni, partners and communities.
Go Bulls!”
Lisa Krouse, president and CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota
County: “It is quite an honor to have USF join the AAU. It is clear that our community will
benefit greatly from being a part of the group of distinguished universities, particularly
other leading research universities. Congratulations USF! Go Bulls!”
Melissa Seixas, chair of the USF St. Petersburg Campus Board and member of the USF
Board of Trustees: “As a proud alumna, I am thrilled that USF has been invited to join AAU. This is
truly a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire USF community. AAU
membership opens up so many exciting possibilities for our entire region and I can’t
wait to see what the future brings.”
The Bernard Osher Foundation: “University of South Florida’s admission to the AAU is a testament to USF’s embodiment
of their vision and values: depth of faculty talent, innovative scholarship, and commitment
to engaging students of all ages. The Bernard Osher Foundation celebrates this achievement
and the opportunities it will bring to the campus community, Osher Reentry Scholars,
and the members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at USF.”
Sharon Hillstrom, president and CEO of the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation: “Congratulations to USF on being invited to join the nation’s top research universities
as a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities! The University
of South Florida is a key driver for successful economic development in our region.
Achieving this milestone elevates the profile of higher education in our community
and will serve as a catalyst for enhancing and sustaining our ability to attract top
notch talent. Go Bulls!”
Brittany Lamont, president and CEO of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance: “Higher Education is an economic engine in our region. We are so fortunate to have
a highly respected institution like the University of South Florida producing top
quality talent for our local employers.”
Robert A. Krause, CEO of the Johnson Scholarship Foundation: “We are thrilled to see our grantee partner, the University of South Florida, receive
this well-deserved accomplishment. Their commitment to academic excellence, research
and equipping students to be tomorrow’s leaders – combined with membership in the
AAU – will have an even greater impact on the future of higher education, employment
and economic development in Florida. Congratulations to the USF community on this
historic milestone.”
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