Categories: College University Athletics

USF St. Petersburg Celebrates Graduates and New Developments

Students celebrating aboard a yacht during the SAILebration dinner cruise.

News Summary

The USF St. Petersburg campus is set to host the SAILebration dinner cruise for Fall graduates on December 9. Celebrating academic achievements with family and friends aboard a yacht, graduates will also enjoy insights from notable speakers. Additionally, a new pool facility is being planned to enhance student amenities, while Homecoming Week promises a series of spirited events to engage students and foster community spirit.

Exciting Times Ahead in St. Petersburg with SAILebration and New Developments!

St. Petersburg, get ready to celebrate! The USF St. Petersburg campus is gearing up for an exhilarating SAILebration dinner cruise, welcoming Fall graduates and their loved ones aboard the luxurious Yacht Starship on December 9. This semi-annual event has become a beloved tradition, offering graduates a chance to relax and revel in their achievements as they sail through the sunset.

The festivities kick off with check-in starting at 5 p.m., so mark your calendars! Boarding takes place at 5:30 p.m., allowing all attendees to find their spots and get settled before the yacht sets sail. After a delightful evening filled with laughter and celebration, the Yacht Starship is expected to return to the St. Petersburg Marina around 8:30 p.m. What a fantastic way to celebrate!

During the cruise, attendees will have the opportunity to hear from esteemed speakers, including USF President Rhea Law, St. Petersburg campus regional chancellor Christian Hardigree, and some remarkable recent alumni. It’s a real chance for graduates to gain insights and inspiration as they embark on their next adventures. Graduates are encouraged to bring family and friends—because what’s an achievement without your nearest and dearest by your side?

When getting ready for the SAILebration, attendees are encouraged to dress in business casual or formal attire, so put on your best outfit and get ready to have a great time! Don’t forget to bring a valid ID for entry—no exceptions here! For those driving, recommended parking locations include the parking garage and nearby USF parking areas P5, P7, P8, and P12, so there’s no stress about where to leave your vehicle.

But that’s not all! Following the SAILebration, commencement ceremonies for graduates from all three USF campuses will be held at the Yuengling Center at the USF Tampa campus on December 13 and 14. It’s a busy but thrilling season for graduates, bringing their hard work and dedication to a well-deserved culmination!

New Pool Facility to Make Waves!

Measuring a generous 4,600 square feet, the new pool will come equipped with an enclosed pumphouse, an indoor classroom, and office space, making it more accessible and beneficial for students. This initiative is a response to ongoing issues with the current pool, including pesky leaks and a broken heater, ensuring that future students will enjoy a glorious swimming experience.

A budget of $2.1 million has been allocated for this new facility, and architectural plans are expected to be wrapped up by the end of this month. Groundbreaking is planned for the end of summer, with an anticipated opening in the vibrant spring of 2023. Students, get ready to make a splash!

Homecoming Week: A Celebration of Spirit!

“Forever Green and Gold” theme. This weeklong celebration features a myriad of activities sure to bring students together and boost school spirit.

From a vibrant Homecoming Dance and an electrifying football game to a concert featuring the famous 2 Chainz, there’s something for everyone! Unique events like the Cardboard Boat Race are sure to spark creativity and fun. Every day brings new opportunities to engage with fellow students with tabling events, trivia sessions, bingo games, pet therapy, and even laser tag!

Plus, students can unwind at a pool party and enjoy the thrill of mini-golf throughout the week. With additional Homecoming events planned at the Tampa and Sarasota-Manatee campuses, it’s shaping up to be a lively celebration of unity and pride!

To all the students and residents of St. Petersburg, enjoy these fantastic events and embrace the spirit of celebration—the best is yet to come!