News Summary
The University of South Florida has named Moez Limayem as the sole finalist for the presidency. Limayem, currently president at UNF, highlighted his vision for unifying USF campuses, enhancing research funding, and supporting student engagement through athletics. His candidacy presents an opportunity for addressing critical issues like academic freedom and financial support, as he aims to strengthen ties with the local community. Limayem’s extensive experience in academia aims to guide USF through its evolving educational landscape.
Tampa, Florida – The University of South Florida (USF) has officially named Moez Limayem as the sole finalist in its search for a new university president, nearly nine months after Rhea Law’s resignation. Limayem, currently the president of the University of North Florida (UNF), was presented during a forum held on October 13, 2023, across all three USF campuses, with the final event taking place at USF St. Petersburg.
During the forum, Limayem shared his personal story, recounting his upbringing without electricity in Africa and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to be considered for this prestigious position. His discourse focused on his commitment to consolidating USF’s three campuses and fostering enhanced research partnerships with businesses and faculty members.
Limayem stressed the importance of staying ahead of shifting trends in research funding, cautioning against complacency in the pursuit of financial support from federal and state sources. His extensive experience in the education sector includes a decade as the Lynn Pippenger Dean of the Muma College of Business at USF Tampa, in addition to his role as associate dean at the University of Arkansas’ Sam M. Walton College of Business.
Highlighting the role of athletics in student engagement, Limayem noted the excitement generated from athletic achievements, particularly victories against competing institutions such as the University of Florida. He also conveyed his readiness to work alongside Rob Higgins, who was appointed as USF’s first-ever CEO of Athletics on September 9. Limayem commended Higgins for his background in professional sports and expertise in revenue generation.
Limayem addressed the current climate around free speech on university campuses, pointing out the necessity of fostering civil discourse. He emphasized the role of universities as platforms for diverse ideas and reiterated his commitment to upholding academic integrity and freedom as essential facets of academic life amid sociopolitical challenges.
His rapport with the Florida Board of Governors has been positive, providing him valuable insights into ecological management during his time at UNF. USF’s Board of Trustees has recommended Limayem to the Board of Governors without opposition, endorsing him as a capable candidate with strong bonds to USF and the Tampa Bay community.
Notably, Limayem is the first sole finalist for the university presidency since 1971, when Cecil Mackey was appointed. The timeline for the formal appointment of a new president is currently uncertain. Any decision made by the USF Board of Trustees will require confirmation from the Board of Governors before it is finalized.
In summary, Limayem’s candidacy brings a combination of leadership experience, academic insight, and a vision for the future of USF. His approach promises to address critical areas such as funding, athletics, free speech, and academic freedom, all within the context of a rapidly changing educational landscape.
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Additional Resources
- Crowsnest St. Pete: USF Presidential Search
- Wikipedia: University of South Florida
- Florida Phoenix: USF Search Committee
- Google Search: University of South Florida presidential search
- USF Oracle: Presidential Applications
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University
- WFLA: USF Sole Finalist Announcement
- Google News: USF presidential search
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.
