On a September morning in 2004, Darren Gambrell gripped a ceremonial shovel and helped break ground on a new chapter for the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee. Two decades later—as USF celebrates 70 years—the former Student Government vice president sat down with current Student Government Governor Andre Aquino to reflect on how far the campus has come and what comes next.
Student leadership at USF dates to 1960, when early steering committees laid the groundwork for Student Government. That spirit has remained central to USF’s growth, especially on the Sarasota-Manatee campus, where student leaders have helped shape the campus experience through advocacy, programming and pride.
Neither set out to lead. Aquino arrived planning only to attend class until a friend encouraged him to join the Campus Activities Board, momentum that carried him into Student Government and a winning ticket for governor and lieutenant governor. Gambrell relates: “Sometimes it’s just about being in the right place at the right time.”
Two leaders, two pivotal moments. In 2006, Gambrell served as the brand-new USF Sarasota-Manatee campus opened, transforming a commuter experience into a campus with dedicated spaces, including the iconic FCCI Rotunda. In 2024, under Aquino’s leadership, the campus opened the Student Center and Atala Residence Hall, its first residence space reshaping student life once again.
Before 2006, USF Sarasota-Manatee students shared space with New College of Florida, and many felt a limited sense of campus identity. Working with campus leadership and community partners, Student Government helped advocate for a dedicated campus, a milestone that gave students room to learn, connect and lead.
The Tampa Times, University of South Florida Edition,
October 10, 1960
Here we work together and that's what has always made Sarasota-Manatee such a very unique place and experience not only for our student body, but also our student government.
Darren Gambrell
Darren and Andre talk as they walk around the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus
After opening the new campus, Student Government quickly moved from space to student life—building new ways to involve students on campus, in the community, and abroad. “Often, I wasn’t assigned to do something; I just saw a void and stepped in,” Gambrell said.
Today, Aquino and his team are shaping a residential campus culture. Student Government moved from temporary offices into The Loft, the student activities hub in the Student Center, and is working to activate every space. “We’re seeing a more engaged, more excited student population, and more new faces,” Aquino said.
"I just can’t wait to see what the future has in store." Andre Aquino
Both leaders say the campus’ small size is a strength. Students build close connections with faculty and staff and find meaningful leadership opportunities. “I received opportunities here I wouldn’t have elsewhere,” Gambrell said, adding an open invitation for Aquino to stop by his office anytime.
What’s next: A new STEM academic facility slated to open in fall 2027 will bring additional labs and hands-on learning to Sarasota-Manatee. “As a biomedical sciences and biology major, it’s exciting that we’ll finally have labs on our campus,” Aquino said.
Advice for future Bulls: “Put yourself in position to take advantage of opportunities,” Gambrell said. “Step up when others step back.” Aquino added: “Your college experience is what you make it. Once you get involved, you can make a big impact.” Looking at Aquino, Gambrell said: “My legacy was the campus. Your legacy is this building. Be proud of that.”
In the end Gambrell turned to Aquino and said, “as the past, I would like to personally thank you for everything you and your administration do to make this special place even more special for our students. It takes individuals being very intentional and stepping up and saying I want to make a difference.”
Aquino responded, “we needed a great foundation from the past.”
And, with a laugh, Gambrell said, “well, you received it!”
Across generations, Student Government leaders have helped shape a campus where students feel connected and empowered. As USF marks 70 years, Sarasota-Manatee’s student leaders continue to advance a culture of belonging, service, and possibility.
Darren Gambrell with Sean Grosso at USF Day at the Capitol
Andre Aquino in the Homecoming Parade