The University of South Florida (USF) will establish the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Computing, the first named college in the U.S. dedicated to the convergence of AI and cybersecurity. Made possible by a historic $40 million gift from Arnie and Lauren Bellini, the college reflects the growing need for specialized expertise in managing AI-driven security threats.
Opening in Fall 2025, the Bellini College aims to position USF as a leader in AI and cybersecurity education. It will integrate research, industry collaboration, and workforce development to address national security and technological challenges.
Why It Matters: The U.S. currently faces a shortfall of over 700,000 cybersecurity professionals, leaving vital systems vulnerable to sophisticated attacks. By creating a dedicated college that merges AI and cybersecurity, USF is positioning itself at the forefront of technological defense and innovation.
- First of Its Kind: The Bellini College will be the first U.S. college to focus specifically on the intersection of AI and cybersecurity. It aims to equip students with the technical and strategic skills needed to handle AI-driven threats and complex security challenges. This pioneering approach reflects a growing recognition that AI and cybersecurity are becoming increasingly interdependent.
- Historic Gift and Legacy: Arnie and Lauren Bellini’s $40 million donation is the largest in USF’s history. Arnie Bellini is a Tampa-based entrepreneur and the co-founder of ConnectWise, a highly successful IT management software company. The Bellinis have long supported education, technology, and innovation in the Tampa Bay area. Their donation reflects a strategic investment in the future of digital security and technological leadership, reinforcing their commitment to building a stronger, more secure tech ecosystem.
- Strategic Focus: The curriculum will emphasize a multidisciplinary approach, combining AI development, data science, and cybersecurity training. Students will work on real-world problems, using AI to strengthen digital defenses and anticipate emerging threats. The goal is to produce graduates capable of developing innovative solutions in both public and private sectors.
- Industry Integration: The college will partner with government agencies and private industry leaders to give students direct exposure to real-world challenges. Through internships, joint research projects, and guest lectures from industry experts, students will gain practical experience and insights into current cybersecurity threats and AI advancements.
- National Impact: The Bellini College aims to help fill the growing shortage of cybersecurity professionals in the U.S., where over 700,000 cybersecurity jobs remain unfilled. By training a new generation of AI-savvy cybersecurity experts, USF hopes to strengthen both the local economy and national security infrastructure.
