The Baughman Center

Honoree

Dr. George and Hazel Baughman envisioned a serene haven for peaceful contemplation, performing arts events and celebration. Their $1 million gift to the University of Florida allowed their dream to become a reality in the form of the Baughman Center, which opened to the public in 2000.

George Baughman was born in Tampa in 1915. He earned a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Law from the University of Florida, and upon graduation, took a position with the National Metropolitan Bank in Washington D.C. Baughman returned to UF as professor of Business Law and Insurance in 1941 and served a tour in World War II. He then headed to New York University, serving first as Business Manager, then Vice President and Treasurer at New York University from 1955 to 1961.

Dr. Baughman's most ambitious project was the founding of New College in Sarasota, playing key a key role in constructing the school from the ground up including raising funds for land and buildings, securing endowments for scholarships, and recruiting faculty and students. Renowned architect I.M. Pei was hired to construct several of the campus buildings, and New College opened in 1964. Dr. Baughman passed away in 2004 at the age of 89.

Facility History

This 96-seat, 2,000-square-foot structure was designed to blend naturally into the surroundings of Lake Alice on the UF campus. It was built in the Gothic tradition using natural Florida cypress, and features graceful arches and beautiful windows. An adjacent administrative building houses a staff office, conference room, men's and women's restroom facilities and the mechanical room for both buildings.

The Baughman Center is open to the public for silent meditation during the week and is closed on all national and University of Florida holidays.