Jacksonville: UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA SELECTS LAVILLA SITE AS LOCATION FOR GRADUATE CAMPUS IN DOWNTOWN JACKSONVILLE
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~ Jacksonville, FL - The University of Florida Board of Trustees Governance Committee has voted to open a new graduate campus in the city's downtown area, with a full board vote scheduled for Friday. This decision marks another milestone in Jacksonville's growth as an innovative technology hub and a city with top-notch education opportunities.

The new campus will be located in the vicinity of the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, which has been recommended by the City of Jacksonville. The first classes are expected to begin in the fall of 2026. In addition, the highly sought-after Florida Semiconductor Institute will also be situated on this campus. This institute is part of a national effort to enhance research and development of semiconductor chips, which are crucial components used in defense and aerospace technology, smartphones, computers, automobiles, and other essential products.

The establishment of this institute is expected to lower the costs associated with this vital technology while also improving America's national security by reducing reliance on foreign manufacturing. With $80 million in state funding already secured, there is also anticipation for additional federal support.

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan expressed her excitement about this partnership with the University of Florida, stating that it aligns with the city's commitment to being at the forefront of workforce development and creating a thriving downtown where citizens can learn, live, work, and play. She believes that this new campus and its degree offerings will further solidify Jacksonville as a national leader in industries that will shape our collective future.

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Mori Hosseini, Chairman of the University of Florida Board of Trustees, shared his vision for this new campus as a place where students can learn and thrive in a rapidly growing city with abundant job opportunities. He also emphasized their goal to establish a national center of excellence and bring bright students to this forward-thinking city. He expressed gratitude for their strong partnerships with state officials, city leaders, and community members and believes that together they can achieve great things.

Interim UF President Kent Fuchs echoed Hosseini's sentiments, stating that the graduate programs being offered will not only help build tomorrow's leaders but also have a positive impact on the state's economy. He sees Jacksonville as a city on the cutting-edge of innovation, and believes that this campus will be a place where students can drive change and transform industries of the future.

The specific graduate degree offerings are still being finalized, but potential programs include a professional MBA program, Master's degrees in Management with a concentration in AI, Engineering Management with a concentration in Data Analytics, Computer Science with concentrations in AI and Cybersecurity, Study of Law, and AI in Biomedical and Health Sciences. Enrollment and course offerings are expected to expand in the following years.

To make this campus a reality, the Deegan Administration will work with the Downtown Investment Authority and City Council to provide 22 buildable acres near the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center. The goal is to begin design, planning, and construction as soon as possible in 2025. With the Florida Semiconductor Institute secured for this location, Mayor Deegan plans to propose $50 million in funding over four years starting next fiscal year. This is in addition to the $50 million already committed by City Council for spring 2023 and budgeted accordingly. Mayor Deegan believes that investing in projects like this will bring significant returns for Jacksonville citizens and sees this partnership with UF as one that will have a lasting impact on the city for generations to come.

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The addition of this new graduate campus is expected to revitalize the LaVilla neighborhood and contribute to other ongoing projects aimed at revitalizing downtown Jacksonville. These include developments such as Pearl Square from Gateway Jax, Stadium of the Future, Museum of Science and History, Four Seasons Hotel, Related Group and RiversEdge developments on the Southbank, completion of Emerald Trail and riverfront park system, transit-oriented development planning around the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center, and the eventual return of passenger rail to downtown.

In conclusion, the University of Florida's decision to open a new graduate campus in Jacksonville is a significant step towards the city's growth as an innovative technology hub and a leader in education. With strong partnerships and investments, this campus is expected to bring about positive changes for both the city and its citizens.

Filed Under: Government, City

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