Florida state lawmakers have tentatively reached a budget agreement that would transfer the University of South Florida’s Sarasota-Manatee campus to New College of Florida, a move that could significantly reshape higher education options in the region.
The proposal, backed by Gov. Ron DeSantis for the past two years, is included in the state budget and would take effect in July if approved. Under the plan, the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus would be dissolved, and its 32-acre property — including recently built student housing and laboratory facilities — would be transferred to New College by Oct. 30.
Students enrolled at USF Sarasota-Manatee before July 1 would receive priority access to classroom space and continue as USF students through a teach-out process lasting up to four years, after which USF academic programs on the campus would be phased out.
The size difference between the two institutions is notable. The campus currently serves more than 2,000 students, while New College enrolls roughly 900.
Campus leaders and board members have raised concerns about the transition. USF Sarasota-Manatee Board Vice Chair Dr. Anila Jain pointed to financial risks, noting that New College would assume a monthly debt payment of approximately $166,000 tied to the transfer. Jain also questioned what would happen to specialized programs — including nursing, hospitality, and accounting — that are not offered at New College.
Board member Bill Mariotti, described as the campus’s largest donor, said he worries about the impact on students and employees. Campus Chancellor Dr. Karen Holbrook called the proposal “extremely sad,” saying the campus has played an important role in the region.
The budget agreement is not yet final. Gov. DeSantis must still sign the budget before the transfer can move forward. Representatives from both universities had not responded to requests for comment as of publication.
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