Congressman Vern Buchanan has emphasized the importance of maintaining independence between USF Sarasota-Manatee and New College of Florida in an op-ed published in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. In his piece, Buchanan highlighted how each institution serves Sarasota and Manatee counties with distinct missions that contribute to local workforce development and educational opportunities.
Buchanan stated, “We do not need to choose between these institutions. We can and will champion both to ensure they grow successfully, remain strong on their own and serve the needs of our community.”
USF Sarasota-Manatee is described as providing accessible, career-focused education to thousands of local students, including first-generation college students, veterans, and working adults. The campus offers programs in fields such as nursing, business, healthcare, and hospitality that directly support local industries.
In contrast, New College operates as Florida’s public liberal arts honors college. It attracts high-achieving students from across the country and internationally, offering a rigorous academic environment that supports Sarasota’s reputation for learning and culture.
Buchanan argued for continued support for both campuses: “This is not an either-or conversation. We do not have to diminish one institution to support the other. Both campuses contribute in meaningful and distinct ways. Supporting one does not come at the expense of the other. In fact, investing in both strengthens our entire community.”
He detailed recent federal investments secured during the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process. These include $3 million for USF Sarasota-Manatee to establish a Center for Entrepreneurship aimed at supporting students, startups, and small businesses locally; and $800,000 for New College for a greenway trail project intended to improve campus accessibility and enhance student life.
“These investments reflect a simple principle: when our local institutions thrive, Sarasota and Manatee counties succeed,” Buchanan wrote.
Buchanan currently represents Florida’s 16th district in Congress after replacing Katherine Harris in 2007. He previously served in the Florida House of Representatives. Born in Detroit in 1951, he now resides in Sarasota.
He concluded his op-ed by reaffirming his commitment: “We do not need to choose between these institutions. We can and will champion both to ensure they grow successfully, remain strong on their own and serve the needs of our community.”
