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Sarasota Observer, January 6, 2016
What began as a collegiate partnership aimed at redeveloping the North Trail a decade ago, has crystallized into an initiative that could be a boon to the entire local economy.
This morning, representatives from New College of Florida, Ringling College of Art & Design, State College of Florida and University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee — along with spokesmen from Eckerd College and Florida State University — announced the formalized launch of the Consortium of Colleges on the Creative Coast, which is also known as C4. Stakeholders hope the partnership will draw new businesses to the region, cultivate higher research, attract top students and keep graduates in the area, thereby slowing the “brain drain.”
In five years, “we should have a new model for higher education,” said New College President Donal O’Shea.