When the University of South Florida (USF) started in 1956, its Tampa campus was just a few buildings surrounded by sand. There were no sidewalks or many trees, only the essential structures to support education.
Today, USF has expanded to three campuses with over 280 buildings across Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee. This year marks its 70th anniversary, a celebration of growth and achievements like national recognition and record research funding.
One recent highlight includes USF joining the Association of American Universities, joining a prestigious group of research institutions. The university also boasts a leading medical school and is home to Florida’s first college focused on artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
As the campus flourished, faculty and students reflected on the changes. Robert Potter, a chemistry professor since 1984, recalls a much simpler environment. He remembers wide-open spaces and few facilities when he first arrived.
“The faculty was friendly and focused on research and teaching,” Potter said. He noted that despite changes, the university still values its people and their commitment to improvement.
Judith Bryant, a psychology professor since 1981, shares her experience of the campus feeling isolated. “Back then, there were few apartments or condos nearby,” she said. But as USF grew from a commuter office to a more residential hub, student life transformed. This fall, all 44 residence halls were filled for the first time in five years, with over 3,200 new students living on campus.
According to USF statistics, the first graduating class had only 325 students, while over 7,700 graduated in spring 2025. This growth brings a dynamic environment but can also create a sense of distance. “We used to feel like a family. Now, it’s larger and more diverse, which is exciting but has changed the community feel,” Bryant noted.
Alumni like Allin Shaw, who graduated in 2006, are amazed by USF’s visual and cultural growth. He reminisces about a quieter campus that lacked the strong identity it has today. “Major developments like the Research Park have significantly transformed the university,” he said.
Looking ahead, USF plans to open an on-campus stadium by 2027. Shaw believes this will enhance school spirit and community engagement, marking another milestone in the university’s journey. “It’s a sign of how far we’ve come,” he added.
Current students like Michael Zhang also notice the rapid campus developments. “Every semester brings something new,” he said. Recent projects include upgrades to the campus water tower and plans for the Fletcher District, set to be completed by fall 2027.
“All this growth fosters more school spirit,” Zhang explained. “There’s just so much happening now, which helps students feel connected to USF.”
