The University of South Florida has received a record-setting $40 million donation to establish the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing, the first named college in the United States dedicated to AI and cybersecurity.
The gift from Arnie and Lauren Bellini is the largest in USF’s history and aims to strengthen workforce development, national security and economic growth. The college, set to open in fall 2025, will train professionals to address the increasing threats posed by AI-driven cyberattacks and a growing cybersecurity workforce shortage.
“The future of warfare, economic power and national security is digital,” said Arnie Bellini. “Cyberattacks are the new missiles, and AI is the arms race of our time. Tampa and USF are stepping up to lead the charge in securing our nation’s future.”
USF President Rhea Law said the new college will help fill roles in cybersecurity by expanding access to AI and training. “This college will produce the talent and innovation needed to meet the escalating challenges of the digital era,” she said.
The college will integrate AI and cybersecurity into its programs, research initiatives and partnerships with government agencies, defense contractors and private companies.
Bellini, who founded the cybersecurity company ConnectWise, said the goal is to take a proactive approach. “Cybercriminals and rogue nation-states are already deploying AI-driven cyberattacks at an alarming scale. The Bellini College will train the cyber professionals of tomorrow to outthink, outmaneuver and out-innovate these threats,” he said.
The Bellinis have also pledged to match donations to the college, up to $5 million, as part of a broader fundraising effort.