New College set to absorb USF Manatee-Sarasota campus

Florida’s 2026-27 state budget officially approved the transfer of the University of South Florida’s Manatee-Sarasota campus to New College of Florida. The deal, included in the 550-page budget released May 26, grants New College control over more than 30 acres, residence halls, and an under-construction lab. New College President Richard Corcoran stated the campus is ‘move-in ready’ and will provide critical dormitory space for the school’s expansion. The transition follows months of discussions between USF, New College, the Florida Board of Governors, and state officials, beginning in September 2024. USF Board of Trustees Chair Will Weatherford supported the move, emphasizing it aligns with state efficiency goals and New College’s growth while ensuring USF retains recurring resources. He assured USF would protect students, faculty, and staff and maintain a meaningful presence in Sarasota-Manatee. New College’s transformation began in early 2023 when Governor Ron DeSantis appointed conservative trustees, reshaping the institution’s curriculum and culture. Under President Corcoran, the school has faced scrutiny over soaring expenses, including his $1.2 million compensation, while eliminating programs like gender studies. The campus transfer aims to solidify New College’s identity as a conservative-leaning liberal arts institution. Both institutions will proceed with the transition, with New College set to steward the campus while USF focuses on other growth initiatives. The state’s 72-hour ‘cooling off’ period concluded May 29, allowing lawmakers to finalize the budget without further delays.