Florida International University: Florida International University History

Florida International University

Florida International University (FIU) is a distinguished public research university located in Westchester, Florida, United States. Established in 1965, FIU is a member of the State University System of Florida and is classified as a "very high research activity" institution under the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

History

FIU was founded following a decision by the Florida Legislature in 1965, and its creation was part of a broader effort to expand higher education opportunities in the state of Florida. The university officially opened its doors in 1972 with an enrollment of just over 5,600 students, which was the largest opening day enrollment in U.S. collegiate history at the time.

The founding president of FIU was Chuck Perry, who was appointed in 1969. At just 32 years old, he was the youngest president in the history of the State University System and the youngest university president in the country. Under his leadership, FIU grew rapidly and established itself as a prominent educational institution.

Academic Structure and Growth

FIU offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university comprises several colleges and schools, including:

The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, which was established in 2009 and named after Herbert Wertheim, a benefactor whose $20 million donation was matched by state funds.
The FIU College of Law, which was founded in 2000 and is located on the University Park campus.
The School of Architecture, which is renowned for its innovative approach to design education.

FIU also acquired the Wolfsonian-FIU Museum in Miami Beach, which showcases a vast collection of art and design.

Research and Innovation

FIU emphasizes research as a central component of its mission, with a focus on areas such as environmental sustainability, health, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines. The university's research initiatives are supported by substantial sponsored funding, positioning it as a leader in cutting-edge discoveries and community engagement.

Notable Events

One significant event in FIU's recent history was the tragic pedestrian bridge collapse in 2018, which occurred near the university and resulted in multiple fatalities. This incident brought attention to the importance of infrastructure safety in university settings.

Florida International University