News Releases

State University System launches website, kicks off pro-business campaign

Joined by state lawmakers and business leaders, members from across the State University System on Wednesday came together to celebrate its new campaign.

Think Florida: A Higher Degree for Business.

The concept, created with input from all 12 of Florida’s public universities, is designed to build synergies with Florida’s business community and promote further collaboration in the areas of talent, research and partnerships. Coinciding with the celebration, the State University System also launched its website, social media campaign and newsletter.

“I want our universities to push the envelope over the next two years in terms of research, online education, and aligning our degrees to match the needs of Florida’s high-skilled workforce,” said Board of Governors’ Chair Tom Kuntz. “That’s how we can best propel Florida’s economy, and it’s how we can best serve our students.”

“The Think Florida campaign aligns well with our goals at the University of West Florida,” said UWF President Judith Bense. “UWF is a fantastic resource for the Northwest Florida business community. It’s critical that we continue to prepare our students to be successful in today’s modern business world.”

Thursday’s Board of Governors’ meeting will also mark the start of a new feature during which a university or business partner will present on State University System initiatives that contribute to economic development. The Think Florida campaign is a part of an ongoing effort by the State University System to align degrees with job production, promote greater collaboration between universities and employers, and ensure that the universities are responsive to the state workforce.

Held at FSU’s Turnbull Center, speakers at Wednesday’s event included Board of Governors Chair Tom Kuntz and immediate past Chair Mori Hosseini, Florida Chamber of Commerce Executive Vice President for Governmental Affairs and Political Operations David Hart, Enterprise Florida President and CEO Bill Johnson, Florida Atlantic University President John Kelly, and Florida Student Association President Tonnette Graham.