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.
A Tribute to Family, Mentorship and Discovery
David Norton, MBA ’03, credits his USF experience and mentor Dick Bowers for shaping his career and inspiring his philanthropy. After retiring from L3Harris Technologies, Norton established endowed funds for business education and cancer research at USF, honoring his parents and supporting future innovation. His generosity ensures lasting impact on faculty excellence and medical discoveries.
Grateful Patient Honors Leader in Colorectal Cancer Treatment
After surviving rectal cancer thanks to Dr. Jorge Marcet’s innovative care, William “Bobby” Jacobsen made a generous gift to establish the Bobby Jacobsen Endowed Chair in Colorectal Surgery at USF Health. This support strengthens research, education, and clinical innovation, ensuring better outcomes for future patients and reinforcing USF’s leadership in colorectal cancer treatment.