News Summary
Moez Limayem, president of the University of North Florida, is the sole candidate for the presidency of the University of South Florida. His vision includes enhancing partnerships, addressing funding concerns, and expanding educational experiences. Limayem has significant ties to Tampa and aims to strengthen community and healthcare collaborations while promoting financial assistance for disadvantaged students. Final approval for his appointment is set for November.
Tampa, FL – Moez Limayem, currently the president of the University of North Florida, has emerged as the sole contender for the presidency of the University of South Florida (USF). The USF Board of Trustees is scheduled to meet on October 21 to consider Limayem’s appointment, with final approval anticipated from the Florida Board of Governors on November 5-6.
In a series of discussions with the USF community across all three campuses, Limayem articulated his vision for the university must he be confirmed as president. He emphasized the necessity of developing partnerships with businesses and organizations, particularly in response to concerns about declining state and federal funding for higher education. Limayem expressed specific worries about potential cuts from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Science Foundation (NSF), which could impact research funding.
Limayem’s background includes significant ties to Tampa, where he previously served as the dean of the USF Muma College of Business for a decade, successfully raising over $126 million in private donations. Notably, he secured a monumental $25 million donation from Pam and Les Muma in 2014, a record at the time for USF. His experiences in the area have led him to feel a strong connection to the community, describing his return to Tampa as akin to coming home, having spent substantial time there while raising his family.
In 2023, USF set a new benchmark by achieving $738 million in research funding, with aspirations to reach $1 billion. Limayem pointed out that USF stands out as one of only three state universities to join the prestigious Association of American Universities, showcasing its potential for growth as a leading research institution.
With approximately 30% of USF students receiving Pell Grants, Limayem underscored the importance of initiating programs to assist financially disadvantaged students. He also highlighted his achievements at UNF, including record enrollment figures and the highest retention rate for first-year students in the institution’s history. Advocating for experiential learning, he asserted that such educational practices significantly contribute to students’ job placements after graduation.
Additionally, Limayem plans to strengthen collaborative relationships with local healthcare institutions, notably Tampa General Hospital and the Moffitt Cancer Center, believing that these connections can enhance educational opportunities at USF. He also expressed his commitment to USF athletics, recognizing it as vital for fostering student engagement and alumni connections.
Addressing the current political climate affecting higher education, Limayem acknowledged the challenges, particularly regarding a culture of fear experienced by junior faculty associated with new laws impacting tenure and academic content. He emphasized the need for a welcoming campus environment that promotes open discourse.
As the university community awaits the decision from the Board of Trustees, Limayem’s vision for USF includes enhancing educational experiences, expanding research capabilities, and ensuring a supportive atmosphere for all students and faculty.
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Additional Resources
- St. Pete Catalyst: USF Presidential Contender Talks Experience, Politics
- Wikipedia: University of South Florida
- Washington Post: Rebecca Woolington Named Deputy Editor
- Google Search: University of South Florida
- Fox 13 News: Aaron Mesmer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Higher Education
- WTSP: Nick Volturo
- Google News: Higher Education Funding
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