News Summary
The University of South Florida plans to construct a new facility for the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Computing by mid-2028. This initiative comes in response to rising student interest in tech programs and aims to enhance the college’s education and research capabilities. The facility will feature high-tech labs and classrooms, supported by significant donations and state funding, positioning USF as a leader in the tech field.
Tampa, FL – USF to Develop New Facility for Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing by Mid-2028
The University of South Florida (USF) has announced that it will construct a new facility for the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing by mid-2028. This initiative aims to enhance the educational offerings and infrastructure for students and faculty engaged in cutting-edge technology and research.
Sudeep Sarkar, who is the launch dean of the Bellini College, is overseeing the development of the new building, which is expected to be between 80,000 to 110,000 square feet in size. The exact location on USF’s Tampa campus has yet to be determined, but plans are already in place to create teaching, research, and high-tech laboratories, classrooms, and additional spaces to accommodate the growing academic programs within the college.
The establishment of the college in the fall of 2024 has resulted in a rapid increase in student interest, leading to the necessity for a dedicated facility. Currently, the college operates from the sixth floor of the Tampa Library and offers five undergraduate programs, two minors, and four graduate programs.
Funding for this ambitious project has been bolstered by a $40 million donation from Arnie and Lauren Bellini, who are USF alumni and significant contributors to the university. Arnie Bellini co-founded the software company ConnectWise in 1982. Additionally, in June, Governor Ron DeSantis approved $10 million to kickstart the construction of the new facility, highlighting the state’s support for advancing educational programs in technology and security.
Project Overview and Timeline
The construction of the new facility is currently in the preliminary stages, and specific budgeting details have not yet been finalized. Sarkar has indicated that further fundraising efforts, alongside additional state support, are anticipated to ensure successful project completion. The timeline for the facility’s construction is considered “fluid,” allowing for adjustments based on various factors as they arise. It is expected that the new facility will open around the same time as the USF Fletcher District redevelopment.
Future Aspirations
The goal of the Bellini College is to position USF as a “global leader” in the fields of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and computing. The college focuses on developing applications that improve health, security, and overall quality of life. To bolster the offerings, discussions are ongoing with corporate and community partners, aiming to provide students with enhanced educational experiences.
To further support this vision, the Bellinis have also made a commitment to match donations to the college up to $5 million, as part of a broader fundraising initiative. Their contributions, along with Governor DeSantis’s recent approval of state funds, highlight a strong commitment to advancing technology education in Florida.
As USF moves forward with planning and construction, stakeholders are optimistic that the new facility will serve as an innovative hub for learning and collaboration in key technological disciplines, catering not only to the immediate educational needs of students but also addressing broader societal challenges through advanced research and development.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
USF Secures $85 Million Contract with U.S. Army
University of South Florida Establishes New College for AI and Cybersecurity
Additional Resources
- USF Oracle: USF Bellini AI Facility Research
- Fox 13 News: USF Building New College AI Cybersecurity
- GovTech: USF Creates New College of AI and Cybersecurity
- Florida Politics: Tech Entrepreneur Donates $40M for USF AI Cybersecurity School
- Wikipedia: Artificial Intelligence
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
