This endowment pays tribute to the late College of Journalism and Communications Dean Emeritus Rae O. Weimer and his first wife, Ruth.

The first dean of UF’s College of Journalism and Communications, Rae Weimer was also founder of the campus television station, WUFT. Encouraging and demanding, Weimer was committed to his students and his newsroom experience helped him prepare students for careers in journalism and communication. He promoted hands-on as well as academic preparation for faculty and students.

In addition to his contributions to the university, Weimer was active in the Gainesville community. He founded the Retired Faculty Club and in 1985, he received the Gainesville Sun’s Community Service Award.

The college’s building is named in his honor.