University of Florida facts for kids
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Former names
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University of the State of Florida |
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| Motto | Civium in moribus rei publicae salus (Latin) |
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Motto in English
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The welfare of the state depends upon the morals of its citizens |
| Type | Flagship state university Land-grant university Sea-grant university Space-grant university |
| Established | 1853 |
| Endowment | US$1.1 billion |
| Chairman | Mac McGriff |
| President | Bernie Machen |
| Provost | Joseph Glover |
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Academic staff
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4,534 |
| Students | 50,116 (2010 Fall) |
| Undergraduates | 32,064 (2010 Fall) |
| Postgraduates | 18,052 (2010 Fall) |
| Location | , , |
| Campus | 2,000 acres (8.1 km2) Total: 2,000 acres (8.1 km2) |
| Colors | Orange (PMS 172) and Blue (PMS 287) |
| Nickname | Florida Gators |
| Affiliations | State University System of Florida, AAU |
| Mascot | Albert and Alberta |
| Website | ufl.edu |
The University of Florida (UF) is a large public university located in Gainesville, Florida, in the United States. Its main campus covers 2,000 acres and has over 900 buildings. The university also has other locations across Florida.
UF is known for its important research, especially in medicine at Shands Hospital and in agriculture. The university's mascot is an alligator, and students and fans of its sports teams are often called "Gators."
Contents
About the University of Florida
The University of Florida is one of the biggest universities in the state. It is a "flagship" university, which means it's one of the most important and well-known public universities in Florida. It's also a Land-grant university, Sea-grant university, and Space-grant university. This means it gets special support from the government to do research and teach about farming, oceans, and space.
History of UF
The University of Florida started way back in 1853. It was first known as the University of the State of Florida. Over the years, it grew and changed, becoming the large and respected university it is today. Many buildings on campus have a long history.
What Students Study
UF offers many different subjects for students to study. There are programs in:
- Medicine
- Agriculture
- Engineering
- Business
- Arts and Sciences
- And many more!
Students can choose from a wide range of topics to learn about and prepare for their future careers.
Research and Discoveries
Research is a big part of what happens at UF. Scientists and students work together to make new discoveries. For example, they do important work in:
- Finding new ways to treat illnesses at Shands Hospital.
- Improving farming methods and food production.
- Studying the environment and protecting natural resources.
This research helps people in Florida and around the world.
Life on Campus
The University of Florida campus is a busy and exciting place. It has many buildings, including classrooms, libraries, and dorms where students live.
Campus Buildings
Some notable buildings on campus include:
- Century Tower: A tall tower built to remember students who served in World War I and II.
- Rinker Hall: This building was the first on campus to get a special "LEED" award for being environmentally friendly.
- Library West: One of the main libraries where students can study and find books.
- J. Wayne Reitz Union: A large building with places to eat, shops, and spaces for student activities.
Sports and Athletics
Sports are a huge part of life at UF. The university's teams are called the Florida Gators. They compete in NCAA Division I sports, which is the highest level of college athletics. The Gators are part of the SEC, one of the toughest sports conferences.
- Mascots: The official mascots are Albert and Alberta, who are alligators.
- Stadiums: The Gators play football at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, also known as "The Swamp." Basketball games are held at the O'Connell Center.
Many students and fans love to cheer on the Gators!
Arts and Culture
Beyond academics and sports, UF also has a lively arts and culture scene.
- Harn Museum of Art: This museum displays many different types of art.
- Phillips Center: Here, you can watch plays, concerts, and other live performances.
- University Auditorium: Another place where events and performances take place.
These places offer students and the community a chance to enjoy art, music, and theater.
Famous People from UF
Many successful people have studied at the University of Florida. Here are a few examples:
- Bob Graham: A former governor and senator for Florida.
- Emmitt Smith: A famous professional football player.
- Faye Dunaway: A well-known actress.
- Marshall Nirenberg: A scientist who won a Nobel Prize for his work in medicine.
- Marco Rubio: A United States Senator.
- Erin Andrews: A popular sports reporter.
- Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings: A famous author.
These individuals show the wide range of fields where UF graduates have made a big impact.
Images for kids
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Century Tower, a landmark on campus.
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Statue of Albert Murphree, an early president of the university.
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A look at the historic campus.
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Rinker Hall, an environmentally friendly building.
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The entrance to the University of Florida College of Medicine.
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Library West, a popular study spot.
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The J. Wayne Reitz Union, a hub for student life.
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Sledd Hall, a residence hall.
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Bryan Hall.
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Sorority houses on campus.
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Students participating in Dance Marathon.
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The Beaty Towers, a student housing complex.
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A recreational area near Broward Hall.
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The Harn Museum of Art.
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The Phillips Center.
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The University Auditorium.
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Aerial view of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, "The Swamp."
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Inside the O'Connell Center, set up for basketball.
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Carol Browner.
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Kevin Ford.
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Pramod Khargonekar.
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Joseph Glover.
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Manuel Vasquez.
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Johannes Vieweg.
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Carl Van Ness.
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William Murrill.
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Jonathan F. Earle.
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[Blake Ragsdale Van Leer]].
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See also
In Spanish: Universidad de la Florida para niños
