New College of Florida

Gov. Ron DeSantis celebrated Florida’s symbolic designation as the top state for religious freedom in the nation, announced during an event at New College by the conservative legal group First Liberty Institute.

After Gov. Ron DeSantis proposed transferring The Ringling Museum from Florida State University to New College of Florida, at least three people say they’ve pulled or are reconsidering planned estate gifts totaling more than $750,000.

The scholarship was established for a person of color by the Lentini family, who want the endowment returned. A New College attorney says that's not how gifts work.

A proposal to transfer control of the Ringling from Florida State University to New College of Florida was not included in this year’s legislative budget.

Support for USF Sarasota-Manatee came from students, faculty, former leaders of the campus and members of the business community.

Since Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed a new slate of trustees in early 2023, the small liberal arts college has undergone a dramatic transformation — eliminating its Gender Studies program, reshaping student life, and launching a costly new athletics department.

USF president Rhea Law tells trustees the university has prepared for a scenario where state leaders may determine that transferring the Sarasota-Manatee campus would be in "the best interests" of Florida.

A public records request revealed USF leadership was willing to make the proposed transfer, which did not end up in bill form this legislative session.

The charges are separate from two felony exposure charges Piccolo already faces in Manatee County.

Last month, we learned the school uses about 10 times more in tax dollars per degree than other state universities. A comparison of graduates' median wages gives a little insight into the value of those sheepskins.

Eric Silagy, the former CEO of Florida Power & Light, says the oversight body is tasked with making sure taxpayer dollars are well spent, but he hasn't been briefed on either initiative.

Professors, alumni and local leaders are among those scheduled to speak at another event on Thursday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Anna Maria Oyster Bar Landside in Bradenton.