UF Hamilton School breaks ground on historic new home
The University of Florida Hamilton School for Classical and Civic Education celebrated a major milestone Wednesday with the groundbreaking of its future home, marking the start of renovations that will transform one of campus’s most historic buildings into a center for civic education and interdisciplinary scholarship.
The event took place at the former Infirmary building, a Collegiate Gothic–style landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The renovation will preserve the building’s historic exterior while creating modern spaces inside, including seminar rooms, a winter garden, study lounges and faculty offices, designed to foster dialogue and community engagement.
“During my administration, we have completely restored the landscape of higher education here in Florida, reclaiming our academic institutions from the rot of leftist ideology, and ensuring that Florida students are receiving a quality education based on truth,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said. “That’s why we are very pleased to see the classically rooted Hamilton School for Classical and Civic Education continue to grow here in our state and educate future generations of American leaders.”
The groundbreaking ceremony brought together UF leaders, faculty, students and state officials to celebrate the transformation of one of UF’s most recognizable campus buildings. Following remarks, participants turned ceremonial shovels of dirt to mark the beginning of construction.
“The Hamilton School stands as a powerful example of how our state and our university are working together to lead nationally,” said Mori Hosseini, chair of the UF Board of Trustees. “We are thankful for the support and generosity of Gov. Ron DeSantis, the legislature and others who have been critical to the Hamilton School’s great success.”
UF Interim President Donald Landry also spoke during the ceremony, saying, “This is an extraordinary moment at the University of Florida. This building will be transformed into a home for what we hope and believe is the remedy for what ails the academic enterprise of this nation – it’s going to be of great service to our nation and state.”
The Hamilton School recently named Florida Supreme Court Justice Charles Canady as its next director and has hired more than 50 new faculty from Princeton, Harvard, Stanford, Vanderbilt and others, marking a significant milestone in the school’s rapid growth and evolution from an academic center into a full-fledged school.
Also Wednesday, Hosseini announced UF’s Hamilton School has received a $5.5 million investment from philanthropist Kenneth C. Griffin, founder and CEO of Citadel. The gift will fund new scholarships and graduate fellowships that expand opportunities for students, and represents the largest in the Hamilton School’s history. Construction is expected to begin immediately, with completion anticipated in fall 2027.
Founded in 2023, the UF Hamilton School advances research and teaching focused on the foundations of democratic citizenship and the great works of Western and American thought. Through its academic programs, public events and partnerships, the school aims to prepare students for lives of thoughtful engagement in civic and professional life.
