A community of supporters bolsters South Florida hospitality industry

This story was originally published on FIU News. For alumna Heather De La Torre and her husband Jesus, owners of Jr’s Gourmet Burgers in Miami Springs, business is a family affair. The “mom-and-pop” restaurant celebrates its 10-year anniversary this year, and the couple thinks of their small, close-knit staff as kin. But, like many restaurants […]

FIUstrong: Providing emergency relief for students during the pandemic

The university is raising funds for students suffering financially during the health crisis. –For FIU Magazine When FIU student Gabriella Llaña lost her job during the pandemic, she feared she might lose her apartment, too. Living alone, she wasn’t sure how she would afford rent. With support from the FIUstrong disaster relief initiative, the university […]

STAR Center recruited by Florida National Guard to train medical personnel for COVID-19 field hospital

–For FIU News Hurricane preparedness. Earthquake response. Airlift evacuations. The FIU Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences and STAR Center can now add COVID-19 field training to its repertoire of emergency and disaster management support. Earlier this month, the Florida National Guard tapped educators from the College and Center to prepare medical personnel to man the 450-bed […]

FIU expands 3D-printed PPE initiative to local fire-rescue departments with gift from alumnus, President’s Council member

FIU’s College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts has expanded its initiative to produce 3D-printed personal protective equipment (PPE) for those on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Supported by a gift from FIU President’s Council member Angela Martinez and FIU alumnus Raul Chavez ’80, the college 3D-printed 1,000 protective face shields for local fire-rescue departments. […]

Richard Brilliant MS ’93: Helping Students Chart a Course for Success

–By Clara-Meretan Kiah for FIU News As part of the Next Horizon “crew,” Richard Brilliant MS ’93 plays an integral role in the university’s comprehensive fundraising campaign. He and his employer, Carnival Corporation, have for years helped pilot the ship at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, where they have contributed expertise and […]

Wertheims Make $10 Million Gift to Enhance Performing Arts at FIU

–By Sissy Garland for FIU News Dr. Herbert and Nicole Wertheim have announced a $10 million naming gift to the FIU School of Music, part of the College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts (CARTA). The gift, which will establish several new programs that will elevate the school’s global distinction and identity, is the largest […]

Transformational Gift Helps Renowned School Grow

University breaks ground on second phase of Green School building –By Amy Ellis for FIU News Pointing to three flags waving in the breeze just a short distance behind him, FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg reflected back on the first groundbreaking event at the university in 1971. United Nations Secretary General U. Thant was the guest […]

Bells' $5 Million Gift to Build Interfaith Chapel

FIU’s rich diversity and global mix of students is reflected in a broad spectrum of spiritual traditions practiced throughout its community. Now, thanks to an extraordinary gift to the Next Horizon campaign, the university will have a dedicated place for spiritual exploration among people of all faiths. A $5 million gift from philanthropists Trish and […]

Howard Lipman, CEO, FIU Foundation, Inc.: Why We Need Philanthropy

Q. Why is the Next Horizon campaign so important to the future of FIU? A. Next Horizon is the vehicle to power FIU’s next phase of progress as one of America’s top 100 public universities. Philanthropy is an important part of all great universities. Since we opened our doors in 1972, we have made extraordinary […]