CSX Commits $10 Million Donation to the University of Florida Graduate Center Project in Jacksonville - Seite 2

“Jacksonville is a city on the move, and my administration is honored to continue to build on that momentum with one of the best public universities in the nation,” said Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan. “We are excited to continue the work of the previous administration that invited UF to expand its presence here in Jacksonville, and we know there are numerous ways this center will support and bolster our city’s strengths in fintech, health care innovation, and other key industries. It’s a new day in Jacksonville, and both UF and vital partners like CSX will be a critical part of our important work to make Jacksonville a technology and innovation hub.”

This historic $10 million donation showcases CSX's commitment to Jacksonville and is a key component in a public-private partnership that includes support from Gov. Ron DeSantis, the Florida State Legislature, and other Northeast Florida civic, community and industry leaders. The proposed center received $75 million in the state’s 2023-2024 budget signed into law June 15 by Gov. DeSantis. The state’s contribution has been amplified by a $50 million pledge from the City of Jacksonville and $62.5 million in gifts from key industry and philanthropic supporters from across the region. By providing significant financial support to this transformative graduate center, CSX exemplifies its role as a corporate leader and catalyst for progress.

The university is moving forward with raising funds for the center’s next phase, which will include project development, potential site selection and programmatic evaluation. Mori Hosseini, chair of the UF Board of Trustees, said the university community is excited about the support of CSX, Gov. DeSantis, the Florida Legislature, and community leaders across the First Coast and looks forward to a rewarding partnership that will address critical statewide workforce demand.

“UF is ready for the next phase of this work and to lead the way toward making this shared vision a reality,” Hosseini said. “On behalf of the entire UF community, we are grateful to CSX and all those who are helping us advance this impactful and innovative opportunity in Northeast Florida. Our vision for this center is to leverage UF’s strengths in professional development and graduate education to future-proof Florida’s workforce. We are thrilled to partner with the State of Florida, the City of Jacksonville, and pioneering companies like CSX to bring this to life.”