The University of South Florida (USF) has received a $40 million gift to establish the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing.
USF said creation of the new entity will mark the first named college in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to the convergence of AI and cybersecurity.
“The future of warfare, economic power, and national security is digital. Cyberattacks are the new missiles, and AI is the arms race of our time. Right now, America is under siege in cyberspace every nanosecond of every day,” said Arnie Bellini, one of the people behind the funding gift.
“We are failing to produce the talent and technology needed to defend ourselves,” Bellini said. “That changes today. Tampa and USF are stepping up to lead the charge in securing our nation’s future.”
The university said the new Bellini College, which will be up and running by the fall semester, will address cybersecurity workforce shortages while equipping America’s digital defenses against the rapidly evolving threats of the AI era.
“This investment cements Tampa as a global powerhouse for AI and cybersecurity innovation,” said USF Board of Trustees Chair Will Weatherford. “USF is leading the way in training the next generation of cyber warriors and AI pioneers. The Bellini College will drive the talent pipeline that fuels our national security and economic growth.”
Once it opens, the college will offer:
- Undergraduate and graduate degree programs that fuse AI and cybersecurity into real-world applications.
- AI-driven research to develop next-generation cybersecurity solutions.
- Strategic partnerships with government agencies, defense contractors, and Fortune 500 companies.
- A focus on ethical AI implementation and responsible digital governance.
“We are at a pivotal moment in history where AI and cybersecurity must evolve together,” said USF President Rhea Law. “This college will produce the talent and innovation needed to meet the escalating challenges of the digital era. We are proud to stand alongside the Bellinis in shaping the future of AI and cybersecurity.”
