Speaking with one cohesive voice, the State University System is announcing an initiative to promote the impact of Florida’s 12 public universities on social mobility, scientific research, and economic growth. Titled Our Success Is Your Success, the initiative will focus on thanking elected leaders for their support and demonstrating the return on investment that universities provide for all Floridians.
The campaign, which will use social media and other communications, is being carried out in coordination with the Florida Student Association, and will culminate with the first-ever State University System day at the capital, which will be held in Tallahassee on February 6.
“Elected leaders have invested generously in the universities over the past five years, and it’s our responsibility to thank them and to show them how those investments are paying off,” said Board of Governors’ Chair Ned Lautenbach. “Our message is simple: When our State University System prospers, so does the rest of the state.”
“Student leaders are excited to demonstrate that our generation is having a huge impact on this state right now, and we’ll continue to do so,” said Jalisa White, Florida Student Association President. “We’re all stronger when we work together.”
Florida’s public universities have an $80 billion impact that ripples through all geographical and professional sectors of the state economy. Universities are increasing that impact by raising graduation rates, minimizing the cost of a four-year degree, and steering students toward degrees in high-demand areas. The System is also building momentum in university research, which has a $6.50 return on investment for the state, and leads to discoveries and inventions — including life-saving medications — that have the potential to touch the lives of all Floridians.
The campaign will also thank business partners who hire recent graduates and work with university researchers to translate discoveries and inventions into marketable products.
“The State University System is working hard to strengthen ties with Florida businesses and also works with companies out-of-state to let them know why they should come to Florida,” said Syd Kitson, the Board’s vice chair. “Additionally, our universities offer high-caliber incubator programs that provide students with the skills and resources to start their own companies.”
“By nearly every measure, the State University System has seen tremendous gains in the past five years. We are more effective than ever before at providing opportunities for our students to prosper, our businesses to succeed, and our research to change lives,” said Marshall Criser, State University System chancellor. “By harnessing the power of the State University System to speak with one voice, we are going to demonstrate our value and keep our momentum going.”
Facts about the State University System of Florida and the Board of Governors
The State University System of Florida is a constitutional body led by the 17-member Board of Governors. The system has 12 universities and is the second-largest public university system in the nation. Responsibilities include defining the distinctive mission of each institution and managing the system’s coordination and operation. The Board appoints a Chancellor who serves as the system’s chief executive. For more, visit flbog.edu and think-florida.org
