Chronological History

A Chronological History of the Lifsey House

In late 1984 the University initiated correspondence with architect Mr. Mike Patterson about the construction of a residence for the President of the University of South Florida. By late 1985, with the concurrence of the USF Foundation Board of Trustees, plans for such a project were begun. A committee was appointed to advise and coordinate the procedure for completion of the structure.

During the ensuing time a search was begun for the funds to accomplish the University’s goal. Benefactors Julian and Mary Ann Lifsey assumed the leadership role to finance the building. Their generosity made it possible for the committee to proceed.

After consultation with USF Facilities Planning, five sites were presented for consideration. The committee and officials of the University selected the site where the Lifsey House stands today.

It was further decided to have a design competition open to all registered architects in the state of Florida. After many months of discussion and revision, the competition was advertised in major metropolitan newspapers in the state. Thirty-eight entries were submitted. The competition was juried on October 21, 1989.

The winning entry was submitted by Mr. Gene Leedy of Winter Haven with part of his submittal advising that the interior designer would be Ms. Rosemary Gillett of Winter Park. With full cooperation from all concerned, bids were received from general contractors and the award was made to Scheveling Construction Company of Mount Dora, Florida. Mike Patterson was contracted to be the owner’s representative.

During the planning and construction of the Lifsey House, the University of South Florida had three Presidents. It was planned, beginning in 1984, during the tenure of Dr. John Lott Brown; it was constructed during Dr. Francis T. Borkowski’s presidency, and it was completed and occupied by USF’s fifth President, Ms. Betty Castor in 1994.