Explore how our researchers are shaping a better future for Tampa Bay, the state of Florida and the nation. Discover groundbreaking innovations, transformative treatments and meet the dedicated individuals behind the science – working every day to improve lives and strengthen communities.
University
From launching the nation’s first college dedicated to artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to celebrating an historic football season, 2025 was defined by bold moments and impactful leadership. As we turn the page to the second half of the decade, here are some of the year’s top stories.
Student Success
The class includes a student who overcame stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma, along with the first group of graduates from the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing.
University
Limayem has served as president of the University of North Florida since 2022 and was the Lynn Pippenger Dean of the Muma College of Business at USF for 10 years before taking the role at UNF.
USF’s historic invitation to join the Association of American Universities has taken what many in Tampa Bay have once considered a “best-kept secret” to an unprecedented new level. Being an AAU member is a tremendous milestone for USF as it formalizes USF's position as a leading research university. USF is the first public university in Florida to be invited to join the AAU in nearly 40 years and is now one of only two institutions from the State University System of Florida to serve as an AAU member.
