News Summary
Tampa is experiencing significant growth with recent recognitions and project launches. The Florida Aquarium earned a top 10 spot in national ranking, while OrderlyMeds, a pharmaceutical company, is set to create 100 jobs in Hillsborough County. Local universities and leaders are also receiving accolades for their contributions to innovation, community support, and wellness initiatives, showcasing Tampa’s commitment to progress.
Tampa Celebrates New Developments and Recognitions
The city of Tampa is abuzz with exciting news as various organizations and individuals receive significant recognition and unveil new projects across the region. The Florida Aquarium has achieved national acclaim, while companies are expanding and initiatives to support local communities are gaining momentum.
In a prestigious recognition, the Florida Aquarium has been named one of the top 10 aquariums in the country by USA Today in the 2025 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. This honor places it among just two aquariums in Florida to receive such esteemed acknowledgment, highlighting its role in conservation and education.
Expanding economic opportunities, OrderlyMeds, a pharmaceutical company based in Atlanta, is set to establish a new facility in Hillsborough County. This development is anticipated to create 100 high-wage jobs by August 2025, bolstering the local job market and contributing to the regional economy.
In academic achievements, three faculty members from the University of South Florida (USF) have been inducted into the 2025 Florida Inventors Hall of Fame. Dr. Michael Francis (orthopedic surgery), Dr. Sumita Mitra (materials science), and Dr. Subhra Mohapatra (molecular medicine) were recognized for their impactful innovations in health care and dental fields.
In Gainesville, Georgia, CR Fitness Holdings has proudly opened a $5 million Crunch gym, marking the first of its kind in the area. This facility aims to promote health and fitness among residents while also providing job opportunities within the community.
Leadership Changes and Community Support
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT is further highlighted by several organizations showing their commitment to helping local residents. Vector Solutions, a Tampa-based firm, has appointed Vincenza Caruso-Valente as chief customer officer to enhance client engagement strategies, indicating a strong focus on customer satisfaction in the evolving business landscape.
In civic leadership, Richard Skaggs, CEO of the USF Credit Union, has been honored with the Distinguished Citizen Award for his dedication to financial education and community involvement, showcasing the positive impact of leaders in the Tampa Bay area.
Meanwhile, Coastal Construction hosted a charity golf tournament, successfully raising $95,000 to support Metropolitan Ministries, an organization that addresses teen homelessness in Hillsborough County, reflecting the local commitment to social responsibility.
New Ventures and Expansions
In another significant move, the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA broke ground on a $35 million wellness center in Wesley Chapel, expected to create 300 jobs and serve more than 40,000 households by its projected opening in 2026. This center will enhance community wellness initiatives.
Additionally, chef Ciji Castro of Domestic Gourmet has been featured in Southern Living, bringing attention to her work in preserving Latin culinary traditions through modern and healthy cooking methods. This recognition emphasizes the importance of cultural culinary arts within the region.
In real estate news, CenterSquare Investment Management has acquired Village at Causeway, a retail center in Tampa’s Brandon submarket. This acquisition underscores the state’s growing retail market and economic resilience.
Finally, two Florida authors celebrated for their explorations of family and identity will be representing the state at an upcoming literary event in Washington, D.C., reinforcing the cultural contributions of Florida’s literary scene.
Acknowledgments and Awards
As accolades continue, McKibbon Hospitality recently recognized outstanding leadership in their 2025 Circle of Excellence Awards, with Brandon Miller and Dawn Lassiter named as General Manager and Sales Leader of the Year, respectively. Such recognitions motivate others in the industry to strive for excellence.
Overall, Tampa continues to thrive with numerous initiatives aimed at improving community welfare, economic growth, and cultural engagement. As new projects and recognitions unfold, the city’s commitment to innovation and community service remains strong.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Polk County Officials Warn of Tourism Funding Crisis
Ukraine’s Renewed Efforts for Peace Talks with Russia
Tragedy Strikes L.A. County Sheriff’s Department with Three Deputies Lost
Kerr County’s Tragic Flooding: The Latest Updates
Chaos Erupts at Vermont Hollywood Nightclub as Vehicle Rams Into Crowd
Florida Reports Fatalities Linked to Vibrio vulnificus Infections
Cheeseology Launches National Franchise Program
Glazer Children’s Museum Launches ‘Play for Everyone’ Initiative
Livy O’s Catering Company Thrives in Tampa
International Photography Competition Now Open at FMoPA
Additional Resources
- Fox 13 News: Florida Aquarium Celebrates Independence Day
- Wikipedia: Florida Aquarium
- ABC Action News: Help Name Florida Aquarium’s New Ambassador
- Google Search: Florida Aquarium news
- WFLA: Florida Aquarium Named One of the Best in U.S.
- Google Scholar: Florida Aquarium
- Fox 13 News: Florida Aquarium Nominated for USA Today’s 10 Best List
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Florida Aquarium
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.
