The University of Florida Podcast

UF Campus Update: Career Week Highlights, Football Recap, Revamped Traditions & This Week’s Weather Forecast

Hey Gators, it's Jenny with your Campus Update for September 29 through October 6. Let's get you set for the week—fast.
First up—Career Week kicks off today and runs through Friday at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. This is your chance to connect with over 300 employers offering internships and full-time positions. Don't miss out!
Next—the Computer & Information Science & Engineering and Artificial Intelligence Career Fair is happening today from 1 to 6 p.m. at the O’Connell Center. If you're into tech, this is the place to be.
And—the Non-Technical Day of Career Showcase is tomorrow, September 30, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. It's perfect for those interested in fields like business, government, and social services.
Over the weekend, the Gators football team faced a tough loss against the Texas Longhorns. Despite a strong effort, we couldn't secure the win. Looking ahead, the Gators are set to take on Mississippi State on October 18 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Kickoff time is to be announced.
The Writing on the Wall event, a long-standing UF tradition, has been revamped this year. Instead of writing negative words, participants are now encouraged to write positive affirmations on the bricks. The wall will remain up as artwork for everyone to see. It's a great way to spread positivity on campus.
This week in Gainesville, expect a mix of sun and clouds with occasional thundershowers, especially in the afternoons. Highs will be in the mid-80s, and lows in the upper 60s. It's a good idea to carry an umbrella, especially on Thursday and Friday when afternoon storms are more likely.
Your move: Register for Career Week events now to secure your spot and make the most of the opportunities available. Don't wait—spaces fill up fast!
That's your quick Campus Update. I'm Jenny—catch you next Monday morning. Tap follow on your podcast app so you never miss a beat.

UF News: Interim President Named, Tuition Hike, Record Research, Sustainability Changes, Student Protests, Gator-WISE, Football Update

Good afternoon, Gators! It's Monday, September 22, 2025, and here's what's happening at the University of Florida.
Dr. Donald W. Landry has been confirmed as UF's interim president by the Florida Board of Governors. Previously the chair emeritus of Columbia University's Department of Medicine, Dr. Landry is committed to advancing academic excellence and fostering a culture of free expression tempered by civility. His term runs through August 31, 2026, with the possibility of extension or permanent appointment.
The UF Board of Trustees has approved a 10% increase in out-of-state tuition, effective this fall. This adjustment aims to address rising operational costs and ensure equitable contributions from all students. Despite the increase, UF's tuition remains among the lowest compared to top public universities nationwide.
UF has achieved a record $1.33 billion in research expenditures for the 2024-25 fiscal year, marking its highest research spending to date. This milestone underscores the university's commitment to innovation and solidifies its position among top-tier research institutions.
The university has closed its Office of Sustainability, citing a focus on efficiency and budget considerations. While the office's responsibilities have been absorbed into UF Facilities Services, some faculty and students have expressed concerns about the future of conservation efforts on campus.
UF medical students recently protested the state's plan to repeal vaccine mandates in schools. Organized by the UF chapter of the Students for a National Health Program, the demonstration aimed to highlight concerns that the repeal could lead to a resurgence of certain diseases and place additional burdens on the healthcare system.
Gator-WISE is offering three Saturday programs this fall for high school students:
- September 20: "Inside Addiction – The Biology of Opioids"
- October 25: "Forensics – DNA Detectives; The Science of Identity"
- November 15: "Mini Vet School – Parasitology"
Each program is limited to 30 participants, and registration is now open.
In football news, the Gators faced a tough game against the Miami Hurricanes, resulting in a 26-7 loss. Despite the setback, the team is focused on regrouping and preparing for the upcoming conference games.
That's all for today's update. Stay informed and engaged, Gators!

UF Names Interim President, Expands in Jacksonville, Achieves Research Breakthrough, and Honors Activist in Eventful Week

Good morning, Gators! It's Monday, September 15, 2025, and welcome to another episode of [Podcast Name], your go-to source for the latest happenings at the University of Florida. Let's dive into today's top stories.
Dr. Donald W. Landry has been confirmed as the interim president of the University of Florida by the Florida Board of Governors. Dr. Landry, formerly the chair emeritus of Columbia University's Department of Medicine, assumed the role earlier this month. His contract includes a $2 million base salary with up to $500,000 in performance bonuses. His term runs through August 31, 2026, with a possibility for extension or permanent appointment.
The University of Florida is making significant strides in expanding its presence in Jacksonville. The Jacksonville City Council unanimously approved the transfer of over 20 acres of land in LaVilla to UF, along with an additional $50 million in funding to support campus construction. This marks a historic public investment in higher education and research in Northeast Florida.
UF researchers have developed a first-of-its-kind superconducting magnet that could transform metal production. This breakthrough positions the U.S. as a global leader in alloy production and showcases UF's commitment to cutting-edge research.
In sports news, the Florida Gators football team is preparing for their upcoming game against Louisiana State University. The veteran-led Florida defense is gearing up to face Heisman candidate Garrett Nussmeier. Fans are eagerly anticipating this matchup, which promises to be a highlight of the season.
Over the weekend, more than 250 people gathered on UF’s Plaza of the Americas to mourn the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The vigil was marked by tears, prayers, and a sense of community as attendees honored his memory.
Looking back at the weather on September 15, 2025, Gainesville experienced a pleasant day with a high of 87°F (30.6°C), a low of 58°F (14.4°C), and an average temperature of 72.5°F (22.5°C).
That's all for today's episode of [Podcast Name]. Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, Go Gators!

UF Appoints Interim President, Raises Out-of-State Tuition, Breaks Research Record, Expands Nursing Class, and Faces Football Upset

Good afternoon, Gators! It's Monday, September 8, 2025, and here's your latest campus news.
The University of Florida has appointed Dr. Donald W. Landry as interim president. Dr. Landry, a distinguished physician and former chair of Columbia University's Department of Medicine, began his tenure on September 1. His appointment is pending approval by the state Board of Governors, which will meet on September 10-11. This follows the Board's rejection of the previous nominee, Santa Ono, in June.
The UF Board of Trustees has approved a 10% increase in out-of-state tuition, effective this fall. This decision aims to offset rising instructional costs, which have increased by 25% over the past decade. Despite the hike, UF's out-of-state tuition remains more than $10,000 lower than that of other top public universities.
UF's research expenditures have reached a record $1.33 billion, placing the university 25th overall and 15th among public universities nationwide. This milestone reflects UF's commitment to advancing research across various disciplines.
In other news, the UF College of Nursing has welcomed its largest-ever class of Bachelor of Science in Nursing students. On August 21, 226 undergraduate students, including 85 newly created seats, began their nursing journey. This 60% increase in enrollment addresses the national nursing shortage and represents a significant investment in the future of healthcare.
The Gator-WISE program is offering three Saturday workshops this fall for high school students:
- : "Inside Addiction – The Biology of Opioids"
- : "Forensics – DNA Detectives; The Science of Identity"
- : "Mini Vet School – Parasitology"
Each program is limited to 30 participants, and registration began on August 26.
In a surprising turn of events, the Florida Gators football team was upset by the University of South Florida Bulls, marking USF's first-ever win over Florida. As a result, USF is now ranked No. 18 in the nation. The Gators are preparing to face the Miami Hurricanes on September 20 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. ([axios.com](https://www.axios.com/local/tampa-bay/2025/09/07/usf-ranked-no-18-in-the-nation-after-gators-upset?utm_source=openai), [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florida%E2%80%93Miami_football_rivalry?utm_source=openai))
That's all for today's update. Stay safe, and as always, Go Gators!

UF News: New Interim President, $1M Environmental Grant, Basketball Triumph, Jacksonville Campus, Rankings Shift, and Library Centennial

Good afternoon, Gators! Here's your campus news update for Monday, September 1, 2025.
Today marks the first day for Dr. Donald W. Landry as the interim president of the University of Florida. Dr. Landry, a distinguished physician and former chair of the Department of Medicine at Columbia University, steps into this role following the state Board of Governors' rejection of the previous nominee, Santa Ono. His appointment is pending approval at the Board's upcoming meeting on September 10-11.
In a significant boost to environmental research, UF's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences has secured a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation. This funding will support a three-year project in collaboration with Miami-Dade County, focusing on groundwater flooding and saltwater intrusion in South Florida. With sea levels projected to rise by 10 to 17 inches by 2040, this research aims to explore both traditional infrastructure solutions and nature-based approaches to manage flooding effects.
Congratulations to the Florida Gators men's basketball team and head coach Todd Golden! Coach Golden has secured a lucrative contract extension, now set to earn $40.5 million through the 2030-31 season. This follows the team's thrilling 65-63 victory over Houston on April 7, clinching their third national championship. Since taking over in 2022, Coach Golden has compiled a 76-33 record, including an impressive 36-4 mark during the 2024-25 season.
The University of Florida is expanding its footprint with a new campus in downtown Jacksonville. The Jacksonville City Council has unanimously approved the transfer of over 20 acres of land in LaVilla to UF, along with an additional $50 million in funding to support campus construction. This initiative aims to position Jacksonville as a national hub for talent and innovation, fostering economic growth in Northeast Florida.
In the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, UF has slipped one spot to No. 7 among public universities and to No. 30 nationally among both public and private institutions. While the university continues to be a leading institution, this marks the second consecutive decline in rankings. Factors influencing this change include peer assessment scores and recent administrative transitions.
This year, the George A. Smathers Libraries celebrate their 100th anniversary. As the largest academic resource system in Florida, the libraries have been instrumental in providing access to a vast array of materials and services to students, faculty, and researchers. Here's to a century of knowledge and many more to come!
That's all for today's update. Stay informed, stay engaged, and as always, Go Gators!

UF Sets Research Funding Record, Eyes Tuition Hike, Celebrates Library Centennial, and Launches New Programs for 2025-2026

Good afternoon, Gators! Welcome back to campus for the 2025-2026 academic year. Let's dive into the latest news and updates from the University of Florida.
First up, a significant achievement in research funding. UF has reported a record-breaking $1.33 billion in research expenditures for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. This milestone underscores our university's commitment to innovation and solidifies our position among the nation's top research institutions. The increase is attributed to successful external funding across federal, state, and private sectors, as well as the dedication of our faculty and staff.
In other news, the UF Board of Trustees is considering a 10% increase in out-of-state tuition fees, marking the first such hike since 2009. If approved, this change would take effect in Fall 2025. The proposed increase aims to address rising operational costs and ensure all students contribute equitably to the university's educational services.
On the academic front, the George A. Smathers Libraries are celebrating their 100th anniversary this year. As the largest academic resource system in the state, the libraries continue to provide invaluable support to our students and faculty.
Looking ahead, the Gator-WISE program is offering three exciting Saturday workshops this fall for high school students. Topics include the biology of opioids, DNA forensics, and parasitology. Each program is limited to 30 participants, with registration opening on August 26th.
In health and wellness news, the UF Health Florida Recovery Center is hosting its 6th annual Run 4 Recovery 5K. This event aims to celebrate recovery and break the stigma surrounding substance use disorders. Whether you're running or cheering from the sidelines, it's a great way to support our community.
That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around campus. Go Gators!

UF News: Campus Delays, Funding Cuts, Tuition Hikes, Research Breakthroughs, AI in Agriculture, Library Centennial, and Gator Sports Highlights

Good afternoon, Gators! It's Monday, August 18, 2025, and here's what's happening at the University of Florida.
First up, a quick look at today's weather in Gainesville. Currently, it's sunny and 81 degrees. Expect intermittent clouds throughout the day, with temperatures reaching a high of 91 degrees by mid-afternoon. There's a chance of thunderstorms around 1 p.m. and again at 3 p.m., so keep an umbrella handy.
In campus news, the University of Florida has announced a delay in the opening of its new Jacksonville graduate campus. Originally slated to begin classes this year, the start date has been pushed to fall 2026. The campus, located in the former Interline Brands building, aims to expand UF's presence in the region. City Council member Ron Salem expressed frustration over the delay, noting the efforts made to meet the initial timeline.
On the financial front, UF is at a fiscal crossroads. Recent federal funding cuts have led to a 15% cap on indirect costs for federal grants, potentially costing the university an estimated $45 million annually. This reduction could impact research operations and student scholarships. The administration is now faced with making critical decisions on budget allocations to navigate this financial challenge.
In other financial news, the university has proposed a 10% tuition increase for out-of-state students, marking the first hike in over a decade. If approved, this would raise tuition by over $2,000 per year for non-Florida residents. The proposal has elicited mixed reactions from students and parents, with concerns about the lack of notice and the financial burden it may impose.
Turning to research developments, UF researchers have made significant strides in breast cancer detection. They've improved a handheld device that can detect breast cancer through saliva samples. This non-invasive method could revolutionize early detection and treatment strategies.
In the realm of agriculture, UF is leading the way in integrating artificial intelligence into farming practices. At the recent Florida Technology & Innovation Solution Summit, experts discussed how AI can transform the state's agriculture sector, addressing challenges like labor shortages and pest control. The goal is to position Florida as a leader in agricultural technology.
On the health front, UF Health's Florida Recovery Center is hosting its 6th annual Run 4 Recovery 5K. This event aims to celebrate recovery and break the stigma surrounding substance use disorders. Participants can run or cheer on the sidelines to raise awareness as a community.
In library news, the George A. Smathers Libraries are celebrating their 100th anniversary this year. As the largest academic resource system in the state, the libraries have been instrumental in providing access to a vast array of materials and services to the UF community.
Finally, in sports, the Gators are gearing up for the upcoming football season. Fans are eagerly anticipating the rivalry game against the Miami Hurricanes, scheduled to take place in Miami this year. This matchup is part of a home-and-home series agreed upon by both teams.
That's all for today's update. Stay safe, stay informed, and as always, Go Gators!

UF News Roundup: Nursing Grad Celebrations, Jacksonville Campus Delay, Tech Innovation, Raises, and Breakthrough Breast Cancer Research

Hello, Gators! Welcome back to another episode of your favorite campus news podcast. I'm here to bring you the latest updates from the University of Florida as we kick off the week of August 11, 2025.
First up, a heartfelt congratulations to the Summer 2025 graduates of the UF College of Nursing. This past Friday, August 8, the College held its traditional Pinning Ceremony at the historic University Auditorium. In a touching continuation of a new tradition, each nursing graduate was pinned by a person of their choosing—a family member, friend, mentor, or loved one—making the moment deeply personal. Dean Shakira Henderson expressed immense pride in the graduates, stating, "I am incredibly proud to see this group of passionate Gator Nurses graduate, spread their wings, and take flight into a profession that is as rewarding as it is impactful." To the families of our graduating Gator Nurses, thank you for the unwavering support, love, and encouragement you have poured into these remarkable individuals throughout their journey.
In other news, the University of Florida has announced a delay in the opening of its new Jacksonville campus. Originally slated to launch classes this year in the former Interline Brands Inc. building, the university is now targeting a fall 2026 start. Kurt Dudas, UF's vice president of strategic initiatives, shared that the timeline was revised to reflect a more realistic opening date. This decision has sparked frustration among some city officials, who had expedited processes to meet the initial 2025 deadline.
On the technological front, UF is set to play a pivotal role in the upcoming 2025 Florida Technology & Innovation Solution Summit, scheduled for August 12 in Tampa. The summit will explore how artificial intelligence is transforming Florida's agriculture sector. A featured panel titled "Growing Smarter AgTech: What it Takes to Make Florida the Silicon Valley of Agriculture" will include UF's own Scott Angle, senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources, and Nathan Boyd, professor and associate director of the planned Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture. This discussion aims to position Florida as a leader in agricultural technology and AI.
In financial news, the UF Board of Trustees has unanimously approved a $25 million merit raise pool for staff and non-union faculty. Board Chair Mori Hosseini emphasized the university's commitment to its employees, highlighting this as the largest raise pool in at least the past 20 years. Additionally, faculty who exceed expectations in their post-tenure review evaluations will receive $10,000 bonuses.
Looking ahead, the UF Health Florida Recovery Center invites everyone to participate in the 6th annual Run 4 Recovery 5K. This event aims to celebrate recovery and break the stigma against substance use disorders. Whether you're running or cheering from the sidelines, your support helps raise awareness and fosters community solidarity.
In research developments, more than 70 researchers from over 15 UF departments and partner institutions gathered on August 7 at the Austin Cary Forest Campus for the UF Brain Injury Research Workshop. Co-sponsored by the UF BRAIN Center, the UF BREATHE Center, and the McKnight Brain Institute, this one-day event featured cross-disciplinary discussions aimed at advancing brain injury research.
Lastly, a significant advancement in medical research: UF researchers have improved a handheld device designed to detect breast cancer through saliva samples. This non-invasive method could revolutionize early detection and make screening more accessible.
That's all for this week's campus news. Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, Go Gators!

UF News: $1M Flood Grant, Presidential Search Reboot, Todd Golden’s Extension, Malachowsky Hall Opens, New Resilient Strawberries

Good afternoon, Gators! It's Monday, August 4th, and here's what's happening at the University of Florida.
Currently in Gainesville, it's partly sunny with a temperature of 77 degrees Fahrenheit. As the day progresses, expect temperatures to rise into the low 90s, with a chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening. Remember to stay hydrated and keep an umbrella handy.
In a significant development, a team of UF researchers has been awarded a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation to study flooding issues in South Florida. Collaborating with Miami-Dade County, the three-year project will focus on groundwater flooding and saltwater intrusion. With sea levels projected to rise by 10 to 17 inches by 2040, this research aims to evaluate both traditional infrastructure solutions, like seawalls, and nature-based approaches to manage flooding effects.
The search for a new president at UF has taken a turn. Santa Ono, former president of the University of Michigan, was initially approved by UF's Board of Trustees to become the university’s 14th president. However, the Florida Board of Governors rejected his appointment in a 10-6 vote. The decision followed intense criticism from conservative figures regarding Ono’s past support for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, among other issues. The university will now restart the search to replace Kent Fuchs, who has been serving as interim president.
In sports news, Florida Gators head basketball coach Todd Golden has secured a significant contract extension. Golden is now set to earn $40.5 million through the 2030-31 season. At 39, he recently led Florida to its third national championship with a close 65-63 victory over Houston on April 7, becoming the youngest title-winning coach since Jim Valvano. Since taking over in 2022, Golden has compiled a 76-33 record, including an impressive 36-4 mark during the 2024-25 season.
On the academic front, the Malachowsky Hall for Data Science & Information Technology officially opened in November 2023. Named after UF alumnus and Nvidia co-founder Chris Malachowsky, the seven-story building serves as a multidisciplinary hub for STEM fields, particularly those related to data science, information technology, and AI. It houses spaces for several of the university's colleges and departments, including the College of Engineering, the College of Pharmacy, and the College of Medicine.
In agricultural advancements, UF has introduced two new strawberry varieties that are more resilient to flooding and diseases caused by extreme weather conditions. Developed by UF professor and strawberry breeder Vance Whitaker, these varieties aim to combat a severe strain of a previously benign fungus that causes root rot. This development is a significant step for farmers, ensuring consistent strawberry quality despite varying weather conditions.
That's all for today's update. Stay safe, stay informed, and as always, Go Gators!

UF Presidential Search Restarts, Gators Basketball Triumphs, Groundbreaking Research, and Campus Updates – July 28, 2025

Good morning, Gators! It's Monday, July 28, 2025, and here's what's happening at the University of Florida.
The search for UF's next president continues after the Florida Board of Governors rejected Santa Ono's appointment on June 3. Despite unanimous approval from the UF Board of Trustees, the state board voted 10-6 against Ono, citing concerns over his past support for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The university is now restarting the search to find a successor to interim president Kent Fuchs.
In sports news, Gators men's basketball head coach Todd Golden has secured a lucrative contract extension. After leading the team to its third national championship with a 65-63 victory over Houston on April 7, Golden's contract now runs through the 2030-31 season, with a total value of $40.5 million. Athletic Director Scott Stricklin praised Golden for revitalizing the program and his modern coaching style.
UF researchers have introduced two new strawberry varieties designed to be more resilient to flooding and diseases caused by extreme weather. Developed by Professor Vance Whitaker, these varieties aim to combat root rot and ensure consistent quality for Florida's strawberry industry.
In other research news, UF's AI-based digital twin technology is being used to prevent bridge collapses. This innovative approach enables real-time monitoring and efficient decision-making for the maintenance and management of bridges.
The Malachowsky Hall for Data Science & Information Technology officially opened in November 2023. Named after UF alumnus and Nvidia co-founder Chris Malachowsky, the seven-story building serves as a multidisciplinary hub for STEM fields, particularly data science, information technology, and AI. It houses spaces for the College of Engineering, College of Pharmacy, and College of Medicine, as well as the Informatics Institute.
A federal judge has ruled that former UF football recruit Jaden Rashada's lawsuit against head coach Billy Napier and booster Hugh Hathcock can proceed to discovery. The lawsuit alleges fraud and conspiracy related to a failed $13.85 million name, image, and likeness deal that influenced Rashada's commitment to UF in 2022. While some claims were dismissed, several fraud-related counts will move forward.
UF is among at least three public universities in Florida seeking to deputize campus police to enforce federal immigration laws under the 287(g) program. This policy shift would allow campus officers to interrogate individuals about their immigration status and make arrests without warrants. Critics argue that this change may create fear within the diverse student community and discourage the use of vital campus resources.
Currently in Gainesville, it's sunny with a temperature of 79°F. Temperatures are expected to rise throughout the day, reaching a high of 100°F by 4 PM. There's a chance of thunderstorms in the evening, so be prepared for possible rain later today.
That's all for today's update. Stay cool, stay informed, and as always, Go Gators!