USF St. Petersburg is an urban university that aims to integrate seamlessly into the fabric of the city and region, enhancing opportunities for students, businesses and the public. This community roundup series highlights the ways that USF faculty, staff, students and administration are active in the community. If you’d like to engage with USF St. Petersburg, or are a campus staff, faculty or student interested in engaging with the community, please contact Caryn Nesmith, Community Relations Director.
Celebrating an EOS Milestone
On August 14, Senator Nick DiCeglie and Representative Linda Chaney visited USF St. Petersburg for a ceremonial check presentation recognizing $10 million in state funding for our new Environmental and Oceanographic Sciences Research and Teaching Facility. This long-anticipated project marks a major milestone. As Regional Chancellor Christian Hardigree said during the ceremony, “This is more than a building. It’s a launchpad for solutions.” The facility will expand research capabilities, enhance student opportunities and strengthen our leadership in marine science and coastal resiliency.
Introducing Rocky’s Book Club
This fall semester, we’re introducing Rocky’s Book Club - a monthly gathering at USF St. Petersburg’s bookstore centered around a book of the month. We’ll explore a wide range of topics and genres, with titles selected by alternating hosts from the USF St. Pete community. Each book club gathering is open to the public and free to attend. Enjoy discounted drinks from the bookstore café, complimentary light bites and a lively conversation led by our alternating hosts. Each book of the month is currently available for 30 percent off at the USF St. Petersburg campus bookstore located at 500 3rd St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. The first book will be The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman and the event will be hosted by Regional Chancellor Christian Hardigree on Tuesday, September 9 from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Find out more and register to participate here.
FinTech|X Accelerator Welcomes New Cohort
The 2025 FinTech|X Accelerator officially launched on August 7 with a reception at the University Student Center Ballroom. Hosted by Tampa Bay Wave in partnership with USF’s Muma College of Business, the event brought together investors, corporate leaders, startup founders, and community stakeholders. This year’s cohort includes cutting-edge fintech startups from across the globe. Guest speaker Alex Sanchez, Executive Advisor with Nasdaq and founder of Salva Financial Group, delivered a powerful message on the importance of innovation and collaboration. Strategic partnerships like this are helping solidify Tampa Bay’s place as a national hub for financial technology and economic growth.
Mellon Foundation Grant Supports Humanities Internships
Thanks to a grant from the Mellon Foundation, USF’s College of Arts and Sciences is offering funding for community organizations to host paid humanities-focused student internships. Nonprofits can propose a 50-hour project; selected students will receive $20 per hour through USF’s financial aid office. Currently, the program supports nonprofit partners, but there are plans to expand to for-profit organizations in the spring. Participating employers would then share the cost of compensation. Visit the website to learn more or propose a project.
Teen Arts & Culture Fest Lights Up the Campus
The University Student Center was alive with energy July 18 and 19 as the Arts Conservatory for Teens hosted the 2025 Teen Arts, Culture & Careers Festival. This two-day event welcomed young creatives from across the region for a weekend of inspiration, connection and artistic growth in visual arts, theater, music and dance. From Broadway-style karaoke and high-energy dance parties to hands-on workshops and career talks with celebrity guests, the event was a celebration of youth expression. Highlights included a VIP meet-and-greet with Disney’s Raphael Alejandro, music by DJ JustWill and engaging sessions with Zo Harris, Ruby Amanfu, Mackenzie McLean and others. Many industry professionals and community partners gave their time and resources to make this free event possible.
Amplify Women Tampa Bay Summit
On August 8, representatives from USF St. Petersburg Community Relations and Career Services attended the second Amplify Women Tampa Bay conference. Designed to support women business owners and entrepreneurs, the event featured inspiring sessions with local leaders, offering resources, mentorship and guidance for professional growth.
Neighborhood Housing Solutions Committee Launches
After graduating from Leadership St. Pete, USF Business Manager Dan Wood launched a new Neighborhood Housing Solutions Committee under the Council of Neighborhood Associations. Passionate about housing stability and community support, Dan brought together a team of fellow LSP graduates to focus on solutions around financial instability, mental health, addiction and access to services. The group is setting its first-year goals and connecting with nonprofits, city leaders, veterans’ services and police resources to tackle the root causes of housing insecurity.
Camp Bullseye and St. Pete Strong: Now Playing
New video recaps are now available capturing the vibrancy and impact of Camp Bullseye and the St. Pete Strong Youth Conference that took place over the summer on campus. These programs continue to highlight our commitment to engaging and empowering local youth.
Creekshed Project Featured at Wild Space Gallery
In partnership with USF’s Creekshed Project, Wild Space Gallery is hosting a special event that brings literature and visual art together. Eight Florida authors will present short stories inspired by artwork from USF Special Collections, all responding to the question: “What are the human and natural stories that drain into the Gulf?” The event will include a reading, Q&A, reception and book signing, with books available through Tombolo Books. Featured authors include USF faculty members Gary Mormino and Thomas Hallock. Visit the Wild Space Gallery website for more information and registration details.
Choir returns to St. Pete Campus!
Join us Tuesday evenings at Harbor Hall! Our newest ensemble is an intergenerational celebration of joy and community open to the public! Rehearsals begin August 26 and culminate in campus and community performances at the end of the semester. The choir will meet every Tuesday from 6:30–9:15 pm. ALL are welcome! Find more information and register here.