State University System Of Florida
State University System of Florida
The State University System of Florida (SUSF) is an integrated network of twelve public universities in the U.S. state of Florida. Serving as a cornerstone of higher education, the system enrolls over 341,000 students and is committed to excellence in teaching, research, and public service. The Board of Governors governs the system, providing oversight and ensuring the alignment of universities with state goals and policies.
Florida Board of Governors
The Florida Board of Governors is a constitutional body responsible for the administration of the State University System of Florida. Established in 2003, the board was formed to centralize and improve the governance of Florida's higher education system. Prior to its establishment, the system was managed by the Florida Board of Regents.
The Board of Governors consists of 17 members, which include 14 appointed by the Governor of Florida and confirmed by the Florida Senate, the Florida Commissioner of Education, the chair of the Advisory Council of Faculty Senates, and the president of the Florida Student Association. The board is tasked with setting educational policies, determining strategic planning, and overseeing budgetary allocations for the universities within the system.
Member Institutions
The State University System of Florida comprises twelve universities, each contributing to the diverse academic landscape of the state:
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University of Florida - Located in Gainesville, it is the oldest and one of the most prominent universities in the system. The University of Florida is recognized for its substantial contribution to research and education.
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Florida State University - Established in 1851 and located in Tallahassee, it is known for its strong emphasis on arts and sciences and has been designated as a preeminent university by the Board of Governors.
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Florida A&M University - As the only public historically black university in Florida, FAMU plays a critical role in providing educational opportunities for minority students.
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University of South Florida - Situated in Tampa, it is recognized as a leading research university and a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
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University of Central Florida - Located in Orlando, it is one of the largest universities in the nation by enrollment and focuses on technological advancement and research.
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Florida International University - Based in Miami, it is known for its focus on international education and cultural diversity.
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Florida Gulf Coast University - Located in Fort Myers, this university emphasizes a comprehensive undergraduate education with a commitment to environmental sustainability.
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Florida Atlantic University - Headquartered in Boca Raton, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong focus on research.
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Florida Polytechnic University - Florida's newest public university, focused on STEM disciplines, is located in Lakeland.
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University of North Florida - Situated in Jacksonville, it offers a personalized education experience with a focus on undergraduate teaching.
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University of West Florida - Located in Pensacola, it is a comprehensive research university known for its close-knit community and innovative programs.
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New College of Florida - Based in Sarasota, it serves as the state's Honors College, offering an alternative liberal arts education model.
Academic and Research Libraries
The State University System of Florida Libraries play an essential role in supporting the academic and research missions of the universities. This library system ensures access to a vast array of digital and physical resources, fostering an environment conducive to groundbreaking research and scholarship.