Lakeland

USF PolyTech in Lakeland, the newest USF campus, aims to become the center of the high-tech universe along Interstate 4 connecting Tampa to Orlando. The fledgling university’s plans call for cross-disciplinary studies that emphasize math, science and technology as the best formula for growing intellectual capital. Down the road, tiny Florida Southern College is home to 10 architecturally significant buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. New or expanding companies include WellDyneRx, Firmenich, Pepperidge Farm, Saddle Creek and GTECH Printing. Nearly 100,000 residents enjoy an eclectic mix of neighborhoods and housing that runs the gamut from mobile homes to millionaire mansions. 

Dr. Ajeet Kaushik, assistant professor of chemistry at Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland.

Florida Poly COVID-19 research now in WHO database

Ongoing research at Florida Poly explores advanced electrochemical sensing systems and nanomedicine for personalized health wellness.

Construction on Bayso at The Quay, a project by The Ritz-Carlton Residences architect, Kolter Urban, will begin in Spring 2021.
On our radar: Most anticipated projects coming to the Tampa Bay Area in 2021

As we exhale a sigh of relief to have 2020 behind us, 83 Degrees and our readers are looking forward to what's new and what's next for the Tampa Bay Area in 2021 and beyond that will transform our shared environment and experiences. Read about a few that you won't want to miss.

Dig deep for #GivingTuesday2020 in Tampa Bay

Small donations from thousands of people could add up to a major impact on Tampa Bay Area nonprofits and charitable organizations struggling to make ends meet this year during the pandemic.

Florida Polytechnic University’s Purple Fire Robotics club.
Startup State: Florida Funders teams up with Florida Polytechnic University

Florida Funders in Tampa teams up with Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland to groom the next generation of students studying technology in its entrepreneurship program.

Temporary art installation in downtown Tampa.
Need an arts-and-culture fix post-quarantine? Here’s what you can expect to find nearby

Using CDC guidelines as a framework for reopening, Tampa Bay Area art museums, groups, and venues are starting to invite visitors back while planning for safer experiences as COVID-19 persists.

Researchers are especially eager to recruit African Americans and Latinos who are under-represented in many studies.
Can brain training fend off dementia? USF researchers want you to try it

Dr. Jerri Edwards is hoping to put 500 volunteers through brain training in 2020, especially African Americans and Latinos who are up to two times more likely to develop dementia and who are often under-represented in clinical trials.

Florida gardeners finds herbs really easy to grow.
Florida gardeners work the land to grow food, escape impact of COVID-19

Much like what happened with the Victory Gardens of World War II, Floridians stuck at home under the threat of coronavirus are planting and reviving gardens for food and pleasure.

Census 2020
Make it count: How Census 2020 benefits the Tampa Bay Area

What do you need to know to be counted in Census 2020? Why should you be counted? How can you help ensure a complete count in the Tampa Bay Area? Why does it matter? Read part 1 in a series.

Give the gift of shared experiences this holiday season

Create lifelong memories of the season by spending time with loved ones at one of the Tampa Bay Area's local boat parades, Christmas strolls, holiday markets, museum exhibits, and outdoor activities. So many things to do, so little time. 

Florida Polytechnic University recently broke ground on its second academic building- the Applied Research Center.
Florida Poly breaks ground on innovative research building

Florida Polytechnic University breaks ground on its second academic building, a state-of-the-art Research Center for applied sciences and engineering. It will be a center where students and faculty can work toward commercializing their research.

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