University of Tampa renames business building after donors

The University of Tampa’s Institute for Sales Excellence, part of the John H. Sykes College of Business, is now named the Southard Institute for Sales Excellence after a donation pledged by Mike and Amy Southard.

The donation and renaming come as the institute moves into its new location in the university’s newest building, the Grand Center. It is located on the first floor and includes offices, learning spaces, a conference room and classroom.

The Southards met at the University of Tampa and are currently based in Ohio. Their daughter Ashley graduated from UT in 2012. In addition to the donation for the building, the couple previously committed to funding multiple four-year scholarships.