The Science of Giving: Biologist Honors Late Wife with Gift to OLLI
After a distinguished career in research biology, John Hassell found renewed purpose through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at USF—a place his late wife Florence encouraged him to join after retirement. In her memory, Hassell established the Florence Pollock Hassell Endowment, starting with a $60,000 gift and an estate pledge that will grow the fund to $1 million. His generosity ensures OLLI’s future while honoring a lifelong partnership rooted in love, learning, and shared discovery.
$3M Gift Recognizes Neurosurgical Excellence at USF Health
President Emerita Judy Genshaft and Steve Greenbaum’s $3 million gift establishes endowed chair and supports neurosurgery faculty, research and resident education at USF.
From Love Story to Legacy
This story follows Andy and Eileen Hafer from their unexpected meeting as USF students to their enduring legacy of philanthropy and community-building. Lifelong supporters of the university, the Hafers have contributed both service and transformational gifts, including their recent $1.75 million investment to launch the Hafer THRIVE Entrepreneurship Program at the Nault Center. Their commitment aims to remove barriers for student innovators, provide seed funding, and strengthen Tampa’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem—continuing their belief in connection, opportunity, and lifting others up.
A Symphony of Love
Walter Heinlein began every day with the classical music of WSMR, a station that became a constant source of comfort throughout his life. After losing his wife, Sharon, in 2022, he chose to honor her memory by dedicating $2.1 million from his estate to create the Sharon Heinlein Endowment in support of Classical WSMR.
Everything Matters — Even a Smile
After losing her husband and battling cancer herself, Jill Chalsty found renewed purpose in sharing compassion and empowering young people. Honoring the care she and her husband received, she supported USF Health and later embarked on a 107‑day global voyage to deliver “packets of hope” — life‑skills tools designed to uplift students and communities. Her journey transformed personal grief into worldwide impact, continuing a legacy that has reached millions of children.