Leadership

Welcome from the Regional Chancellor

Hello, friends! 

Christian Hardigree

I’m so glad you’re reading this. You’ve discovered one of the best-kept secrets in higher education: USF’s St. Petersburg campus. It’s a very special place that just keeps getting better. Let me tell you why. 

First, there’s our location. We’re right on the water! That means our students can see dolphins, manatees and pelicans on their way to class. You’ll find students swinging in hammocks overlooking the bay and checking out paddleboards and kayaks from the boathouse for a midday spin. Our harborside location also provides unique opportunities for research in fields such as integrative biology and sustainability. 

The USF St. Petersburg campus is also in the heart of a thriving downtown and within walking distance of museums, sports venues, parks and restaurants. Many of our students take advantage of our proximity to downtown for internships and job shadowing opportunities. They gain valuable skills and build a network of contacts at a variety of local businesses, from the Dali Museum to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital to Raymond James Financial. 

USF St. Petersburg faculty members are just amazing. They are constantly breaking new ground within their fields. Did you know our Anthropology professors discovered a skeleton in Ethiopia whose remains were used to map the first ancient human genome? Others in our Criminology department are using cutting edge technology to create an online network of resources for victims of human trafficking. Our faculty are more than just knowledgeable – they truly care about students, too. 

Our small size means students get individualized attention. You’re never just a number at the USF St. Petersburg campus. People look out for one another, and you can expect prompt service from offices such as financial aid and the registrar. At the same time, our connection to our campuses in Tampa and Sarasota-Manatee means students have access to top faculty across a wide spectrum as well as a variety of activities. 

I invite you to learn more about USF’s St. Petersburg campus. Check the home page of our website for the latest news and events. Follow us on social media. You’re also welcome to drop me a line. I always love hearing from our campus community, especially prospective students and their families. You can reach me at stp-chancellor@usf.edu

GO BULLS! 

Chancellor's signature

Christian Hardigree
Regional Chancellor
USF St. Petersburg


Read Chancellor Hardigree's bio.