President's House open as rental for special UF events

November 28, 2006

Looking for that distinctive, one-of-a-kind place to host a special event? Look no farther than West University Avenue. For the first time in its history, the University of Florida President’s House is available for rental.

Since President and Mrs. Machen moved off-campus in August, the house has been open for university-sponsored occasions for anywhere from five to 500 people. The property may be used to host conferences, retreats, themed parties, meetings, fundraisers or alumni gatherings.

“President and Mrs. Machen wanted the property to remain a vital part of the University of Florida,” said Robin Frey, director of presidential events. “They decided it should serve as an exciting and unique event venue for the entire campus community.”

Rental fees range from $500 to $1,400, depending on the number of guests. The money will be used to enhance the event space and to fund projects above and beyond the normal scope of UF maintenance.

“All maintenance and improvements have been, and will continue to be, consistent with UF’s sustainability initiative. Our ultimate goal is to attain certification as a green building and serve as a model for the entire campus,” Frey said.

So far, the University of Florida Foundation, the Alumni Association, the College of Business Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and the College of Education all have rented the President’s House.

President Machen is the first UF president not to live in the house since it was built in 1953. The 7,610-square-foot house will continue to have a traditional residential appearance and still will be used for official events hosted by President and Mrs. Machen.

“Future UF presidents will still have the option of residing in the house,” Frey said.

Anyone wishing to use the President’s House should complete a reservation request and must agree to use an approved caterer. To submit a reservation request or to take a look at the President’s House photo gallery, visit the President’s House Web site at www.president.ufl.edu/house.