The University of South Florida was founded in 1956 as the first public university established specifically to address the needs of Florida's rapidly emerging urban regions. State Rep. Sam Gibbons championed USF's creation, and John S. Allen, USF's first president, helped Gov. Leroy Collins break ground in September 1957.  

 

On September 26, 1960, nearly 2,000 students began classes in five buildings. USF was on its way. The university chose two words to guide its path: "Truth" and "Wisdom."

The Youth Impact Program at USF: The YIP program at USF began operations this year. USF began operations with the support of the YIP program, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the the local Tampa Bay community.