Florida State University marked the opening of the Herbert Wertheim Center for Business Excellence on January 6, 2026, signaling a new phase for its business education programs. The ceremony included a ribbon-cutting and the formal signing of a gift agreement in recognition of Dr. Herbert Wertheim’s $65 million donation to the university.
FSU President Richard McCullough stated, “This project honors our past, it strengthens our present, and it sets a pace for our absolutely amazing future – a future that Florida State University is ready for.”
Dr. Wertheim, an optometrist, inventor, businessman, and philanthropist who leads Brain Power Incorporated, attended the event. He reflected on his contribution by saying, “I am standing here in front of all of you to say, ‘Thank you to America.’ (Thank you) for allowing me to have this opportunity to give back. It’s not the finances; it’s not the money. It’s my heart that I give you. And education has made the difference in my life.”
The university previously announced that Dr. Wertheim’s support would endow and rename both the college—the Herbert Wertheim College of Business—and its new building as the Herbert Wertheim Center for Business Excellence.
President McCullough highlighted the significance of starting classes in the new facility: “We are thrilled to launch this new semester by letting our students and faculty experience the absolute grandeur of the Wertheim Center — named for someone who is the quintessential example of the American Dream.”
Michael D. Hartline, dean of the college, expressed gratitude: “This is our legacy. This is our home,” he said. “And together, we have laid the foundation for generations of students to dream, achieve and lead, and we’re going to proudly do so as the world-renowned Herbert Wertheim College of Business.” He also thanked Dr. Wertheim and those involved in realizing the center.
Peter Collins, chairman of FSU’s Board of Trustees, acknowledged state legislative support: “I want you to know that our guiding principle is to be a good steward to state taxpayer dollars,” Collins said. “I’d say we’re doing it.” He commended Dean Hartline’s efforts both in constructing the facility and fostering relationships with donors.
The 218,000 square-foot building is now FSU’s largest academic structure and includes modern classrooms and collaborative spaces designed for engagement among students, faculty members, and industry partners.
Wertheim’s donation will fund several initiatives at FSU’s business college such as faculty development programs; scholarships at undergraduate and graduate levels; student professional development opportunities; resources supporting preeminence and emerging trends; as well as launching a new initiative focused on healthcare business education.
Addressing attendees about this initiative’s purpose within healthcare fields—a sector closely linked with FSU Health—Wertheim said: “It’s only business that can increase the quality and affordability of healthcare in America… There’s tens of millions of people who are involved in this business.”
Construction began on what became known as Legacy Hall in October 2022 after years spent seeking funding solutions due to outgrowing previous facilities built decades earlier.
More information about FSU’s Herbert Wertheim College of Business can be found at https://business.fsu.edu/.
