The University of Central Florida’s geographically challenged rival to the west, the University of South Florida in Tampa, is enduring controversy over a change to its name.
USF reportedly insists the name change — which adds “Tampa Bay” to the university’s name — is not a name change, but a “tweak” or “rebranding.” But USF students think that’s bull. They’ve set up a Facebook group named “Do NOT Change University of South Florida’s name” to express their outrage.
USF students told Tampa’s WTSP news they don’t see a reason for the name change. The station reports, however, the reason for the name change is likely because USF is located in Tampa — and not near Miami — which is the area typically considered to be “South Florida.” Adding “Tampa Bay” to USF branding could clear up confusion, administrators told the station.
Even though the change appears to be a done deal, the school won’t be changing every sign on its main campus. The reason? It’s too expensive to do that.
UCF is expected to resume its football rivalry with USF soon, as both schools are projected to be competing together in the Big East conference soon. Check back to KnightNews.com for more information on the fight over USF’s name.
