New College of Florida Acquires USF Sarasota-Manatee Campus

New College of Florida officially acquired the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee campus on July 17, 2026. This transaction involves the transfer of property ownership from USF to New College. However, the students and employees currently associated with the Sarasota-Manatee campus will remain part of the University of South Florida system, not transitioning to New College.

The agreement includes a significant financial component, with New College assuming responsibility for the campus's debt. A critical aspect of the deal is a reversion clause. This clause stipulates that ownership of the campus property will return to USF if New College is unable to manage the associated debt obligations. This provision introduces a contingency that could alter the long-term ownership structure.

The acquisition marks a strategic move for New College, potentially expanding its physical footprint and resources. The University of South Florida, meanwhile, continues its operations with the students and staff at the Sarasota-Manatee location, albeit under a new property ownership arrangement. The details of the debt management and the specific terms of the reversion clause are central to the ongoing relationship between the two institutions regarding this campus.