Benjamin A. Tolbert Hall

Honoree

Benjamin A. Tolbert began his career at the University of Florida as an education professor. Tolbert had a genuine care for students and later became the Dean of Freshman (now Dean of Students) in 1928. As the Great Depression took its toll, many students experienced financial hardships. Dean Tolbert was steadfast on keeping students in school and in 1934 he responded by advocating a loan program that enabled students to continue their education.

Tolbert passed away in 1937 but not without leaving a lasting contribution. The original student loan program started out with $300 from the sale of $2 automobile license plate tags. By 1958, more than $30,000 had been raised, and the fund was renamed in Dean Tolbert’s honor.

Facility History

This building was designed by architect Guy Fulton in honor of Benjamin A. Tolbert, Tolbert Hall opened its doors in 1950 at a cost of $562,295.

Tolbert Hall is a Faculty-in-Residence Community, which promotes interaction between students and an on-site faculty member. The faculty-in-residence lives in an apartment in Tolbert and shares the residence hall experience with students. The faculty-in-residence provides academic advising and helps plan and implement special programs.

Tolbert Hall is part of the Tolbert Area, which is near the University of Florida's collegiate baseball stadium, soccer field, track, indoor activities building (O'Connell Center) and Ben Hill Griffin Football Stadium.

Click here to visit Tolbert Hall virtually through UF's campus map