When the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee was established as a regional campus in 1975 to meet the needs of our local community, classes were held in shared space at nearby New College of Florida. More than 30 years passed before USFSM had its own campus home featuring a new multipurpose building, which has become the hub of a thriving, growing community offering more than 40 academic programs.

Since then, USFSM has transformed from a university offering upper-level and graduate programs to a four-year institution, culminating in the arrival of the first freshman class in 2013.

Today, USFSM serves a variety of populations, including recent high school graduates, transfer and post-traditional students, veterans, first-generation college students and professionals seeking opportunities to advance their careers. All benefit from a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio that provides a personalized approach to learning in which professors know their students by name.

As the USF System consolidates to create a stronger, unified university, USFSM sees additional growth and opportunity on the horizon, including plans to add an Integrated Science and Technology Complex and on-campus housing while continuing to expand student-centered programs that meet the needs of our growing community. 

As USF Sarasota-Manatee continues to grow, so, too, do its relationships within the community. USFSM has developed robust partnerships that include Mote Marine Laboratory, The Resort at Longboat Key Club, FCCI Insurance Group, Schools of the Cross College Alliance, Stetson University's College of Law and Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, providing expanded educational and experiential opportunities for students. 

1975: USF at Sarasota is established as a regional campus of USF, operating in conjunction with New College of Florida.

2006: After being established as a regional campus independent from New College in 2001, USF Sarasota-Manatee opens its current campus, the Crosley Campus Center, and holds its first day of classes at the new location.

2013: Having previously only served upper-level and graduate students, USFSM opens its doors to its inaugural freshman class of 85 students, forever changing the landscape of the institution.

2018: Dr. Karen Holbrook is named USF Sarasota-Manatee's new regional chancellor, strengthening USFSM’s commitment to student success, innovation and community collaboration.

 2018: Gov. Rick Scott signs the Florida Excellence in Higher Education Act, which will consolidate the three USF campuses under one accreditation by 2020, creating a stronger, unified “One USF.”

8350 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34243        
(941) 359-4200      
usfsm.edu