Grant renewed for USF Sarasota-Manatee South County program  

SARASOTA, FL, (November 3, 2005) – Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice has awarded $138,500 to USF Sarasota-Manatee to continue its south county program on the campus of Manatee Community College in Venice, which is located just north of the growing cities of North Port and Englewood. 

The Foundation gave an initial grant of nearly $500,000 to establish the south county program in 2003. Since its first semester in January 2004, south county enrollment has increased over 350%.

Susan Freeman, USF Sarasota-Manatee South County Director, attributes this growth to a number of factors, including the region’s explosive population growth, the demand for an educated workforce, and the prestige of a top-tier national university in a convenient hometown setting.

“This grant will allow us to continue to provide a convenient venue for students with an associate's or bachelor's degree to pursue a higher degree or satisfy professional continuing education requirements while working and supporting our local economy,” said Freeman.

In an effort to address the needs of area residents and businesses, Freeman formed an advisory council comprised of local leaders to help guide the program’s growth and development.  

Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice is a public charity committed to improving the quality of life in the communities it serves. Founded in late 1995 through the sale of the Venice Hospital, it is the largest community foundation in Florida with assets of $200 million and has awarded more than $55 million in grants in the areas of arts and culture, health and human services, education, civic affairs, and the environment.

USF Sarasota-Manatee is an upper-level campus for those with an associate's or bachelor's degree interested in pursuing a baccalaureate or master's degree, professional certification, or continuing education credit.

For more information on USF Sarasota-Manatee South County classes, admissions and financial aid, contact the USF Sarasota-Manatee South County Student Affairs office at (941)408-1577 or visit http://www.sarasota.usf.edu/south/.