New College of Florida to Host Community Leaders for Discussion on What Built Sarasota

November 4 event will explore a century of arts, culture, science and enterprise and the people and institutions shaping Sarasota’s future

Sarasota, Fla. – New College of Florida will bring together leaders from Sarasota’s arts, science and business communities Wednesday, November 4, for “What Built Sarasota? A Century of Arts & Culture, Science and Enterprise,” a panel discussion exploring the people, institutions and ideas that helped shape Sarasota and what will define its future.

Presented through the Markovitz Socratic Stage, the event will examine how Sarasota developed from a small Gulf Coast city into a community known for its cultural institutions, scientific research and entrepreneurial spirit. Panelists will reflect on the vision and investments that contributed to Sarasota’s growth, what makes the community distinct and how that legacy can be carried forward.

 “Sarasota’s story is one of people who saw opportunity and had the vision to build something lasting,” said New College of Florida President Richard Corcoran. “This year, as New College marks the 100th anniversary of College Hall, a bayfront home that became a place of learning, that story feels close at hand. From the arts and scientific research to business and entrepreneurship, the institutions that define this community are the work of generations. This conversation is an opportunity to reflect on that history and consider what it will take to build on that legacy for the next generation.”   

The discussion will feature leaders representing several of the organizations and industries that have played a significant role in Sarasota’s development, including:

• Mark P. Famiglio (moderator), president and chairman, Sarasota Film Festival
• Dr. Jenne K. Britell, co-chairman, Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation
• Dr. Michael P. Crosby, president and CEO, Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium
• Heather Kasten, president and CEO, Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce
• Dr. Michael C. Markovitz, entrepreneur and founder, Markovitz Socratic Stage

Together, the panelists will discuss the intersection of arts and culture, scientific discovery, philanthropy and business in Sarasota’s history, as well as the opportunities and challenges facing the community in the decades ahead.

The event will take place at Caples Courtyard on the New College of Florida campus, 5313 Bay Shore Road in Sarasota. A welcome reception will begin at 4:30 p.m., followed by the panel discussion from 5:00  to 6:00 p.m. An audience question-and-answer session will follow.

The event is free and open to the public. Those interested in attending can register at https://www.ncf.edu/event/what-built-sarasota/.

New College of Florida President Richard Corcoran is available for interviews ahead of the event to discuss the panel. Media interested in scheduling an interview should contact [email protected].

About New College of Florida

Founded in 1960, New College of Florida is the state’s designated public honors college. Recognized nationally for its academic excellence, rigorous inquiry, and commitment to free expression, New College offers more than 50 undergraduate majors, graduate programs in Applied Data Science, Marine Mammal Science, and a new Master’s program in Educational Leadership, and a growing NAIA athletics program on a 151-acre campus on Sarasota Bay.