$10 million gift from Bruce and Tracy Berkowitz to expand university nursing
Florida State University has received a historic $10 million gift from The Fairholme Foundation, led by investor and philanthropist Bruce Berkowitz, to expand the university’s College of Nursing and strengthen health care across Northwest Florida.
The gift—the largest ever for FSU’s College of Nursing—will fund the launch of the undergraduate nursing program at FSU’s Panama City campus, helping to address the region’s acute nursing shortage.
It will also create new scholarships for students from Bay, Walton, and Gulf counties, enabling them to pursue careers in nursing and remain in the communities where care is most needed.
Berkowitz, founder and chief investment officer of Fairholme Capital Management, serves as president and director of Fairholme Funds, Inc.
Alongside his wife, Tracey, he co-chairs The Fairholme Foundation, which has become a significant force in targeted philanthropy.
“This extraordinary gift is a true investment in the future of Panama City,” said Randy Hanna, dean of FSU Panama City.
“It opens doors for our students, empowering them to pursue nursing careers right here at home and equipping them with the skills and support to strengthen health care in our community.”
FSU officials said the university will also invest in renovating space, purchasing equipment, and hiring new faculty to support the program’s expansion in Panama City.
Jing Wang, dean of the FSU College of Nursing, emphasized the transformative impact of Berkowitz’s philanthropy:
“At the FSU College of Nursing, we are boldly rising to lead the future of health care. This historic gift empowers us to expand high-quality nursing education to Northwest Florida while preparing exceptional nurses and advancing care models that will shape communities for generations to come.”
The gift comes as FSU expands its health presence in the region.
Earlier this year, the university announced plans for a new FSU Health hospital in Panama City Beach, expected to open in 2028.
“This gift builds on that momentum by ensuring that talented students from our region can train, stay, and serve right here at home,” said Jorge Gonzalez, president and CEO of The St. Joe Company and a member of FSU’s Board of Trustees.
For Berkowitz, the commitment represents more than philanthropy—it is a bet on the region’s future health and resilience.