The University of Florida has officially started renovations on one of its most recognizable buildings, the historic former Infirmary on Fletcher Drive, which will soon house the institution’s growing Hamilton School. UF leaders say the construction marks a significant milestone for a program designed to bring classical liberal arts education into modern-day academia.
The transformation is being made possible through a $5.5 million gift from Kenneth Griffin, founder and CEO of Citadel and founder of Griffin Catalyst. Griffin’s philanthropy has significantly shaped UF’s educational initiatives over the past four years, beginning with a $5 million donation in 2021 to expand the university’s K–12 science education efforts.
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Originally founded by the UF Board of Trustees in 2022, the Hamilton School for Classic and Civil Education immerses students in classical texts that have influenced civilization’s legal, political, historical, and philosophical foundations. The school’s leaders aim to strengthen civic literacy, analytical thinking, and ethical leadership through reading and debate.
UF officials emphasized the school’s guiding philosophy, stating, “This is where tradition meets transformation.” They say the renovation will accelerate their plan to offer an education inspired by some of the most prestigious institutions in the world. According to UF leadership, the Hamilton School will embody a teaching culture similar to Oxford and Cambridge, utilizing intimate class sizes and rigorous discussion-based learning.
The former Infirmary building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, known for its Gothic-inspired architecture. Renovations will honor its character while adapting the space for a 21st-century academic environment.
Plans include:
UF officials reiterated, “This is where tradition meets transformation,” highlighting the project’s goal to blend historical identity with modern academic needs.
Beyond the infrastructure upgrade, Griffin’s latest gift will help establish:
These programs will give students greater access to international study experiences, research partnerships, and internships in law and public policy. The expansion underscores the school’s mission to connect classical education with contemporary civic engagement.
The school’s leadership will be overseen by Judge Charles Canady, the longest-serving current member of the Florida Supreme Court. On Monday, Canady announced he will leave the bench to become director and tenured professor at the Hamilton School.
His departure will create a vacancy on the court in 2026, granting Governor Ron DeSantis the authority to appoint a new justice.
The ceremonial groundbreaking is scheduled for 11 A.M., marking the start of a renovation that UF leaders believe will reshape classical learning in Florida and beyond.
Originally reported by Hawah Ezell in WCJB.
