Ronald L. Vaughn
From UT’s Public Information Office
University of Tampa President Ronald Vaughn was selected as the 2008 Business Executive of the Year, and UT was selected 2008 Business of the Year in the education category, by the Tampa Bay Business Journal at an awards ceremony on Dec. 4.
Vaughn was one of seven finalists, and UT was chosen as one of two finalists. The winners were screened and selected by an independent panel of judges from Tampa Bay’s business community.
Vaughn, who has been president of UT since 1995, has overseen a period of unprecedented growth and stability at the University. UT has seen record enrollment in the past decade, and educates approximately 5,800 graduate and undergraduate students at its downtown Tampa campus. Last year students, faculty and staff provided more than 80,000 hours of community service to local organizations, and UT’s annual economic impact is approximately $500 million. UT has seen more than $210 million in new construction since 1997.
A recent article in the Tampa Bay Business Journal states that UT, under Vaughn’s leadership, has taken a more comprehensive approach to the education and development of its students than other universities. This philosophy has led to new programs focusing on the development of leadership skills, life skills and spirituality.
The article also states that with many families feeling the sting of the financial crisis, UT has ramped up efforts to make financial aid available to students.
Most recently, Vaughn received the 2007 H.L. Culbreath Profile in Leadership Award from Leadership Tampa Alumni and last year was named Tampa Bay CEO of the Year for community action.
