The University of South Florida (USF) has announced a $40 million gift from Arnie and Lauren Bellini aimed at establishing Tampa as a global leader in AI and cybersecurity.
The largest gift in USF history will establish the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing, which will work to address the nation’s urgent cybersecurity workforce shortage while equipping America’s digital defenses against the rapidly evolving threats of the AI era. The college will offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs, AI-driven research, strategic partnerships with government agencies, defense contractors, and Fortune 500 companies, and a focus on ethical AI implementation and responsible digital governance.
According to the university, the Florida Center for Cybersecurity at USF is already a leader in state and federal cyber initiatives, more than 25 percent of technology jobs in the state are based in Tampa, and the U.S. Central Command at MacDill Air Base makes Tampa a critical hub for military cyber operations.
“This investment cements Tampa as a global powerhouse for AI and cybersecurity innovation,” said USF board of trustees chair Will Weatherford. “USF is leading the way in training the next generation of cyber warriors and AI pioneers. The Bellini College will drive the talent pipeline that fuels our national security and economic growth.”
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