USF establishes new college with record-breaking $40M donation


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  • | 2:35 p.m. March 11, 2025
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USF cybersecurity student Brianna Deaubler, USF Provost Prasant Mohapatra, USF Foundation CEO Jay Stroman, Arnie and Lauren Bellini, USF President Rhea Law and USF Board of Trustees Chair Will Weatherford celebrate the announcement of the Bellini's donation to establish a new college.
USF cybersecurity student Brianna Deaubler, USF Provost Prasant Mohapatra, USF Foundation CEO Jay Stroman, Arnie and Lauren Bellini, USF President Rhea Law and USF Board of Trustees Chair Will Weatherford celebrate the announcement of the Bellini's donation to establish a new college.
Photo by Andres Faza
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After announcing plans to establish a college dedicated to artificial intelligence and cybersecurity last year, the University of South Florida has solidified the college’s name after receiving one of the largest donations in its 70 year history, according to a statement from the university. 

 The Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing is named for a $40 million gift from Arnold “Arnie” and Lauren Bellini of Bellini Capital in Tampa. 

“The future of warfare, economic power, and national security is digital. Cyberattacks are the new missiles, and AI is the arms race of our time,” says Arnie Bellini. “Right now, America is under siege in cyberspace every nanosecond of every day. We are failing to produce the talent and technology needed to defend ourselves. That changes today. Tampa and USF are stepping up to lead the charge in securing our nation’s future.”

 

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