News Summary
The University of Central Florida (UCF) has reached the benchmarks required for Preeminent State Research University status, as announced by President Alexander Cartwright. This significant milestone, achieved during a Board of Trustees meeting, positions UCF within Florida’s top university tier through the Florida Preeminence Program. In addition to a rising four-year graduation rate, this status will enhance funding for faculty development and recruitment efforts, addressing the institution’s high student-to-faculty ratio and initiatives designed to further improve student success.
Orlando, Florida – The University of Central Florida (UCF) has successfully achieved the required benchmarks for Preeminent State Research University status, as announced by UCF President Alexander Cartwright during a recent Board of Trustees meeting held on Monday at the Fairwinds Alumni Center on UCF’s main campus. This significant accomplishment elevates UCF to Florida’s highest university designation through the Florida Preeminence Program, which provides additional funding to institutions that meet strict academic and research excellence standards.
UCF reached its twelfth and final threshold with a four-year graduation rate of 63.8%, marking nearly a 14% increase in graduation rates over the past four years. Since being designated as an emerging preeminent institution in 2016, UCF has awaited formal approval from the Florida Board of Governors, which is anticipated to occur in June 2026.
With the achievement of these metrics, the first allocation of preeminence funds will support a raise program for faculty and staff, underscoring the university’s commitment to investing in its people. Although details on the implementation of the raise program have yet to be disclosed, faculty recruitment will become a priority to address challenges posed by UCF having the highest student-to-faculty ratio in Florida, which stands at 28.3 students per faculty member.
UCF’s initiatives aimed at boosting student success include personalized academic coaching and the “Think 30” campaign that encourages students to complete at least 30 credit hours each academic year. UCF is focused on surpassing the state’s goal of a 70% four-year graduation rate, aspiring to be recognized as a national leader in this target.
The metrics results will be submitted to the Board of Trustees for approval in April 2026. If approved, UCF will join other prestigious institutions that have attained this designation, including the University of Florida, Florida State University, Florida International University, and the University of South Florida.
Before this announcement, UCF was already showing positive trends with a graduation rate of 59% and a $255 million endowment, competing against a $500 million requirement. The achievements are credited to a collaborative effort from faculty, staff, and students throughout the UCF community, emphasizing the importance of communal support in reaching these educational milestones.
Overall, this new status as a preeminent institution not only boosts UCF’s prestige but also enhances opportunities for increased funding, essential efforts to improve faculty recruitment, and an ongoing commitment to enriching the academic landscape for its students and faculty. The outpouring of support during the Board of Trustees meeting was marked by a standing ovation, reflecting the community’s acknowledgment of this milestone in UCF’s history.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
UCF Achieves Preeminent Status Among Florida Universities
UCF Achieves Preeminent State Research University Status
UCF Achieves Preeminent Status as Florida University
UCF Faces Challenges with Rising Enrollment and Faculty Shortage
Additional Resources
- My News 13: UCF Preeminent Status
- Florida Politics: UCF Achieves Preeminent Status
- Orlando Sentinel: UCF Earns Preeminent Status
- Nicholson Student Media: UCF Achieves Metrics for Preeminence
- Spectrum News 1: UCF Preeminent Status
- Wikipedia: University of Central Florida
- Google Search: University of Central Florida
- Google Scholar: University of Central Florida
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University of Central Florida
- Google News: UCF Preeminent Status
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
