USF School of Music Receives $2.5 Million Donation

News Summary

The University of South Florida (USF) has received a transformative $2.5 million donation from Pete and Cynthia Zinober, marking the largest gift in the history of the College of Design, Art and Performance. This donation will lead to the unveiling of the Pete and Cynthia Zinober Concert Hall, a 450-seat venue designed to showcase the talents of students and faculty. This generous act comes in the context of USF’s impressive fundraising achievements, reflecting strong community support and a commitment to enhancing the arts at the university.

Exciting News for USF: A Generous Donation to Boost Arts Programs!

If you’re a fan of the arts and are connected to the University of South Florida (USF), then you’ll be thrilled to hear the latest buzz coming out of Tampa! USF has received an incredible $2.5 million donation from the dynamic duo, Pete and Cynthia Zinober. This is a monumental step for arts at USF, as it’s now the largest gift in the history of the university’s College of Design, Art and Performance. Talk about making waves!

A New Name to Remember

Thanks to the generous donation from the Zinobers, USF’s School of Music is set to unveil the Pete and Cynthia Zinober Concert Hall. This beautiful concert venue has a seating capacity of 450, offering the perfect backdrop for performances that highlight the immense talent of students, faculty, and esteemed guest artists. Renaming the concert hall is not just about a name; it’s a tribute to the lasting impact that music and the arts have within the community.

All About the Donors

If you haven’t heard, Pete Zinober has a rich history as a former attorney and has held prominent leadership roles within The Florida Orchestra and various state arts organizations. His efforts have significantly contributed to growing the arts in Florida. On the other hand, Cynthia Zinober has a notable career as the former director of the Henry B. Plant Museum. She played a pivotal role in enhancing its funding and accreditation, helping make it a cultural gem in the region. Their combined experience and passion for the arts resonate strongly with this generous gift. This donation is expected to create waves of opportunities for budding artists and performers at USF.

Part of a Bigger Picture

This generous act comes on the heels of USF’s impressive fundraising accomplishments. In the recent fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, the university raised a record-breaking $168 million through the support of over 54,000 donors. That’s not just good news; it’s thrilling news! For three consecutive years, USF has been able to exceed $150 million in donations. This year alone, nearly 11,000 new donors joined the cause, making an impact that speaks volumes about the community’s support for the university.

Why Now? Why Arts?

As USF steps into this new chapter, it’s important to note that this upswing in donations aligns with the university’s recent membership in the Association of American Universities (AAU), the pinnacle of academic distinction. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about giving students access to enhance their educational experience.

Major Contributions Fueling Growth

Along with the Zinobers’ considerable contribution, USF has received other significant donations, including a whopping $25 million from Tampa General Hospital and a $6 million commitment from USF Federal Credit Union for a new on-campus stadium. The magic doesn’t stop there! Recently, the annual Giving Week turned out to be a record event, pulling in $7 million thanks to the generous participation from a record number of donors.

Looking Ahead

All in all, the future of the arts at USF looks brighter than ever! The Zinobers’ legacy will undoubtedly inspire future students and artists, paving the way for more creativity and innovation in the arts programs. As USF continues to grow and flourish, we can’t wait to see everything this generous gift will support. So, let the music play on in the newly minted Peter and Cynthia Zinober Concert Hall!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

University of South Florida Faces Federal Investigation for Racial Discrimination
City of Tampa Hosts Inspiring Lecture by Keith Lee
Fall in Love This Valentine’s Day: Adopt a Pet in Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay Businesses Unite for Hurricane Recovery Efforts
Concerns Mount Over Potential USF Sarasota-Manatee Transfer

Additional Resources

• Tampa Bay Business & Wealth: USF Record Gift for Arts College
• USF Official Website: University of South Florida to Support Hurricane Relief Efforts
• Business Observer: USF New College Donation
• Google Search: University of South Florida
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Arts