Judy Genshaft

My Story

Dr. Judy Genshaft served as the transformative President of the University of South Florida for 19 years, from 2000 to 2019, guiding the institution into national and global

prominence. Under her leadership, USF achieved elite recognition as a Preeminent State Research University, joined the distinguished Phi Beta Kappa Society, and surpassed a historic $1 billion fundraising campaign. In 2019, USF renamed its Honors College in her honor, forever marking her impact on the institution and its 210,000+ graduates.

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Beyond higher education, Dr. Genshaft played a pivotal role in civic and economic development throughout Tampa Bay and the nation. She’s the first woman to chair the NCAA Division I Board, and has held leadership roles with ACE, APLU, and the Tampa Bay Economic Development Corporation. She continues to serve on the boards of the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, The Straz Center, and more.

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She has received numerous awards for her leadership and philanthropy, including the NCAA Living Legends Award, the USF World Lifetime Legacy Award, and the Global Leadership Award from HRH Princess Sirindhorn of Thailand.

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A passionate supporter of the arts, education, and global learning, Judy and her husband Steve have funded hundreds of student study abroad programs, and actively support institutions across Tampa Bay, including the Moffitt Cancer Center, The Straz Center, and the Tampa Museum of Art.

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She is also a proud mother of two sons and grandmother to Eliana, her “precious little light.”

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What makes her happiest?

“My family. Always. And being in the ‘return’ stage of life, giving back to the community, mentoring others, and investing in the next generation of leaders.”

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Advice to Her Younger Self

“Believe in yourself. Trust your instincts. Surround yourself with capable mentors, and don’t be too hard on yourself.”