University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee celebrates 40 years

SARASOTA -- Geborah Joseph-Smith's original intent was to apply to the Tampa campus of University of South Florida.

A high school student in Fort Lauderdale, Joseph-Smith was visiting her brother in the area when he suggested they check out the local USF campus, Sarasota-Manatee. Her brother lives only about 15 minutes away. Upon arriving on campus, Joseph-Smith's mind was made up almost instantly, she said.

"The people here all have a passion," she said. "They're always trying to get the students involved."

Joseph-Smith, now a sophomore at USF Sarasota-Manatee, works as chief of staff for student government, and

is an admissions assistant, a campus ambassador and has even started a club called "Bulls who Bullieve."

As the newest of three campuses in the USF system, Sarasota-Manatee is still the "new kid on the block," said USF system President Judy Genshaft. The campus launched its 40th anniversary celebration Tuesday night with campus tours, drinks, food and other entertainment as part of a yearlong celebration.

"I'm grateful to be here with you as we write the next chapter," said Regional Chancellor Sandra Stone.

A period of change is underway on campus with a new five-year strategic plan and other changes in the system. In fall 2013, the campus welcomed its first freshman class, having previously only served juniors, seniors and graduate students. Adding freshmen and sophomores right out of high school "forever" changed the campus, Student Government President Alexander Benishek said.

"Our new student population is excited, loud, and most importantly, engaged," he said.

The university also started adapting, bringing more food options to campus and repurposing space to better fit the social needs of younger students on campus, Benishek said.

As part of the strategic plan, the campus is also working to bring a NCAA women's rowing team, something board of trustees member Byron Shinn said he is excited to see happen.

"This system is truly thriving," he said.

The campus will run a number of 40th anniversary-themed events, including the first all-alumni reunion, the annual Hopsitabull Gala and the signature Brunch on the Bay.

"Brunch on the Bay is one heck of a party," Shinn said.

Even 40 years later, some things -- including the university core mission -- haven't really changed.

"Forty years later, our mission remains essentially the same, to provide high quality bachelor's and graduate-level education and to prepare successful leaders and responsible citizens," Stone said.

Meghin Delaney, education reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7081. Follow her on Twitter @MeghinDelaney.

This story was originally published September 16, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee celebrates 40 years ."