JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — VyStar Credit Union has committed $5 million over five years to support the University of Florida’s new graduate campus in downtown Jacksonville, the credit union announced.
The $14.2-billion VyStar said the contribution is aimed at supporting the campus and broader redevelopment efforts downtown, particularly in the LaVilla neighborhood.
The credit union said it was among the early private institutions to back the project with a multimillion-dollar commitment, helping demonstrate private-sector support alongside public investment. More than $300 million in state, city and private funding has since been directed toward the UF Jacksonville campus, according to VyStar.
“As one of the fastest-growing credit unions in the Southeast, we believe our future is tied to the talent we attract and develop,” VyStar President and CEO Brian Wolfburg said in a statement. “Our partnership with the University of Florida is an investment in Jacksonville’s long-term success, expanding innovation and fueling economic growth that benefits our members and our communities.”
Exploring Downtown Campus
The University of Florida and Jacksonville officials first announced in February 2023 that they were exploring development of a downtown campus.
The campus is expected to serve as an anchor for an innovation district in LaVilla focused on education, research and collaboration with industry, VyStar said.
The first students are expected to begin classes this fall in programs from UF’s College of Design, Construction and Planning and Warrington College of Business. Additional programs and new construction are planned in the years ahead.
“We’re grateful for VyStar’s generous support and partnership, and I’m thrilled as we prepare to welcome our first students to UF’s Jacksonville campus,” UF President Stuart R. Bell said in a statement. “The momentum for this important project is building, as is the excitement in the Jacksonville and UF communities.”
Broader Investment in Downtown
VyStar said the commitment builds on its broader investment in downtown Jacksonville since relocating its headquarters there in 2019.
The credit union cited job creation, partnerships with small businesses, support for arts and cultural organizations, and participation in public-private projects including the Emerald Trail and MOSH Genesis.
VyStar said its UF commitment will provide funding for initiatives intended to improve infrastructure, attract businesses and support Jacksonville’s growth in areas including fintech, health care innovation and education.
VyStar Credit Union has more than one-million members and 78 branches across Florida and Georgia. The credit union employs more than 2,300 people.
