News

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is delighted to announce the naming of its esteemed Center for Jewish Studies in recognition of a generous gift from a dedicated supporter, Samuel R. “Bud” Shorstein. The Center will now be known as the Bud Shorstein Center for Jewish Studies in honor of Shorstein’s long-standing commitment to advancing the Center’s mission of scholarship, curricular development, and broader community engagement regarding the global Jewish experience. The naming represents a significant milestone in the university’s mission to advance the goals of the Center, now in its fiftieth year.

“After five decades of outstanding academic contributions by the Center for Jewish Studies at the University of Florida, we are proud to add Bud Shorstein’s name to the Center. His transformational contributions have underscored the importance of Jewish studies and will enable us to build on our rich academic heritage in the field,” said David E. Richardson, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

The Bud Shorstein Center for Jewish Studies will catalyze increased research, interdisciplinary collaborations, and a deeper appreciation of Jewish culture and its contributions to society, according to Richardson.

“We could not be more honored to have the Center named for Bud Shorstein,” said Norman J.W. Goda, the Norman and Irma Braman Professor of Holocaust Studies and Director of the Jewish Studies Center. “Many of us have known Bud for years, and we know that he is a constant and most sincere supporter of UF, the Center, and the Jewish community.”

Shorstein’s gift will enable the Center to expand its programs, attract renowned scholars, and create new opportunities for students, faculty, and the wider community. “We will be able to undertake initiatives about which we could only dream before,” said Goda.

Since its establishment in 1973, the Jewish Studies Center’s impact has been fueled by the generosity of lead supporters from the campus community, such as Shorstein. In addition to his recent generous gift, Shorstein has previously supported the Center for Jewish Studies by establishing a professorship and sponsoring writing awards. His continuous contributions demonstrate his commitment to advancing the Center and the university as a whole.

Samuel R. “Bud” Shorstein, a UF alumnus and former partner at Shorstein and Shorstein, P.A., a Jacksonville-based accounting firm, has had a remarkable career trajectory. In 1981, he transitioned from public accounting to become the Secretary of the Department of Professional Regulation, appointed by former Governor Bob Graham. After a brief return to public accounting, he was asked by Governor Graham to return to Tallahassee in 1985, where he served as the Governor’s Chief of Staff. Subsequently, in 1987, he accompanied newly appointed Senator Graham to Washington, assuming the role of Senator’s Chief of Staff.

The University of Florida remains unwavering in its dedication to nurturing an inclusive academic environment that celebrates diversity and encourages the exploration of different cultures and perspectives. Through diverse courses, lectures, cultural events, and community outreach initiatives, the Bud Shorstein Center for Jewish Studies will continue to elevate UF’s international standing as a premier institution for Jewish studies.

“Bud sees us as an integral part of the cultural development and well-being of a large and vibrant Jewish community in Florida,” said Goda. “Knowing that a good friend sees us in this way reminds us every day of our mission and how very lucky we are to be the ones to fulfill it.”

Learn more about the Bud Shorstein Center for Jewish Studies, its programs, and upcoming events here.