Special to The Laker/Lutz News

ST. LEO – As employers increasingly seek professionals who can navigate both business strategy and emerging technologies, Saint Leo University is redefining how those disciplines are taught.

The university announced the launch of the Donald R. Tapia College of Business and Technology, a new academic college created through the merger of the Tapia College of Business and the College of Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Data Science.

Beginning in fall 2026, the new college will offer an integrated portfolio of undergraduate and graduate programs spanning business administration, accounting, finance, marketing, computer science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, robotics, software engineering and data analytics.

New programs also include a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics, combining AI applications with data visualization, economics, and marketing analytics to prepare graduates for careers that rely on data-driven decision making. A new drone initiative will provide hands-on experience in unmanned aerial systems across industries ranging from public safety to logistics, addressing growing employer demand in those sectors.

“The challenges organizations face today do not fit neatly into traditional academic silos,” said Derek Mohammed, dean of the Tapia College of Business and Technology. “Business leaders must understand cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and data analytics, while technology professionals must understand finance, operations, risk management and organizational strategy. The Tapia College of Business and Technology was created to develop graduates who can operate confidently at that intersection.”

A September 2025 Pew Research Center survey found that 21% of U.S. workers use AI to complete at least some portion of their work, an increase of five percentage points from the previous year. Research also identifies AI literacy and applied technology skills as increasingly important indicators of workforce readiness and employability. These studies reinforce the need for universities to integrate AI across disciplines, and Saint Leo University is answering that call.

“The Tapia College of Business and Technology represents a bold step forward in higher education by integrating technology fluency, business leadership and innovation across disciplines,” said Jim Burkee, president of Saint Leo University. “The future belongs to professionals who know how to work alongside AI in an ethical way, not compete against it. And that’s what we’re teaching our students.”

Finance and accounting students will expand their use of AI applications in fraud detection, financial forecasting and risk assessment. Cybersecurity students will apply advanced AI technology to identify threats, detect anomalies in network traffic, automate incident response, and analyze malware behavior. Students studying investments will use AI to query company financial data, build projection models and benchmark competitive organizations.

“The key is helping students understand the various roles in which AI can serve, as an information source, collaborator, critique partner, analytical assistant or prediction tool,” said Michele Flint, senior associate dean of the Tapia College of Business and Technology. “While new AI tools will undoubtedly continue to emerge, the ability to apply them effectively will require agility and sound judgment. The new college will capture the synergy between the disciplines, creating learning experiences that align with the rapid evolution we’re seeing in the workplace.”

The Tapia College of Business and Technology also is expanding relationships with regional industries and community partners to align academic programs with workforce needs. Through embedded internships, co-designed curriculum, and capstone experiences, students will learn to translate theory into practice with ethics and integrity.

University officials believe this will help graduates succeed in today’s dynamic workplace.

“Organizations are running integrated business and technology operations, and the points where those functions intersect are often where they face their greatest opportunities and risks,” Mohammed said. “Our graduates will be prepared to lead in those environments.”

On the web: saintleo.edu/academics/colleges/business.

HUDSON – The Hudson Community Health & Resource Center’s second annual Back-to-School Health & Wellness Event welcomed a record-breaking 1,582 attendees on July 18 at Hudson High School.

The event brought together families, healthcare providers, community organizations and volunteers to help students prepare for the upcoming school year by providing essential health services, school supplies and family resources.

More than 850 backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed to students during the event. Due to overwhelming demand, supplies were exhausted before all attending families could receive a backpack. More backpacks will be made available to those families at a future distribution date, which will be announced soon.

The event also provided critical health services to local families, including more than 100 health screenings, consisting of 75 dental screenings, 34 vision screenings and five lung screenings. Healthcare providers also administered 10 Tdap vaccinations and completed about 48 school and sports physicals.

Additional services and activities included:

• 51 free haircuts for children and adults
• 214 bicycle helmets distributed to children who ride bicycles to and from school or participate in after-school activities
• 60-plus community organizations and vendors offering resources, educational information and support services
• Family-friendly activities, games, food, music and raffle prizes

“This event is about ensuring families have access to the resources they need to start the school year healthy, prepared and confident,” said Manny Mayor, program director at Hudson Community Health & Resource Center. “The incredible turnout demonstrates both the need for these services and the strength of our community partnerships.”

Financing secured for nearly 2,000 Dade City homes

DADE CITY – Concord Summit Capital arranged $85.6 million in financing for two master-planned residential communities in Dade City.

The company arranged a $57.6 million land and development loan for Rolling Hills, a 1,014-lot community, and a $28 million land loan for Crosswinds, a 915-lot community.

Quill Development is the developer of both projects. Together, they are expected to bring nearly 2,000 single-family and carriage homes to the area.

Loan proceeds will allow horizontal development to begin immediately at Rolling Hills and in 2027 at Crosswinds.

Concord Summit Capital Finance Director Jeff DiBartolo sourced both financings on behalf of Quill Development.

“Dade City is ripe for this level of investment, especially with the housing shortage facing the broader Tampa Bay region,” said DiBartolo. “We were glad to get our client the financing needed to move dirt quickly and start meeting that demand. During the deal, we had to navigate several legal and financial challenges, and yet we still closed on time, which allowed the borrower to avoid significant extension payments on its prior debt.”

 

Whataburger celebrates 76 years with deals

LUTZ – Whataburger will celebrate its 76th anniversary with special promotions throughout August, including National Whataburger Day on Aug. 8.

Customers can access the offers through the Whataburger app and rewards program.

• Aug. 5: 76-cent Taquito with Cheese, 6 to 11 a.m.
• Aug. 8: Buy one, get one Whataburger, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Aug. 12: 76-cent 16-ounce Whatafresher, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Aug. 19: 76-cent Big Ranch Wrap, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Aug. 26: 76-cent Signature Chicken Sandwich, 5 to 10 p.m.

Whataburger has locations in Brandon (1426 W. Brandon Blvd.), Largo (10150 Ulmerton Road) and Lutz (25340 Sierra Center Blvd.).

 

Sims Crane names chief operating officer

TAMPA – Sims Crane & Equipment has appointed Mike Kuffermann as chief operating officer.

Kuffermann has more than 17 years of experience with the company. He began as an apprentice and advanced through service operations, dispatch, outside sales and executive leadership. He most recently served as chief sales officer.

Kuffermann will oversee strategy development, branch operations, fleet and facilities.

“Mike has grown with this company from the ground up, and there is no one better prepared to lead our operations into the next chapter,” CEO Deborah Weber said.

Kuffermann is a second-generation Sims Crane employee. His father, Kurt Kuffermann, spent more than 30 years with the company and served as vice president and general manager of operations.

 

Adams joins Southern Palm Communications

TAMPA – Southern Palm Communications has named H. Roy Adams as senior public relations strategist.

Adams recently retired from Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg after a career spanning more than 40 years in public relations, crisis communications, media relations and strategic messaging.

He previously held leadership positions with the American Red Cross Tampa Bay Chapter and Pinellas Education Foundation. His experience includes communications during major hurricanes, the Skyway Bridge collapse and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Adams serves on the St. Petersburg Museum of History’s Marketing Committee, belongs to the Rotary Club of St. Petersburg and serves on the advisory board for the St. Petersburg Salvation Army.

On the web: Southern-Palm.com

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – The North Tampa Bay Chamber will host Pitch with a Purpose and two ribbon cuttings. 

• The chamber connects its nonprofit members with the business community during Pitch with a Purpose from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Aug. 4 at Pasco Hernando State College’s Porter Campus (third floor conference center), 2727 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Members pay $25. Others pay $35. Register in advance. 
• Members celebrate the grand opening of LiveWell Animal Hospital of Wesley Chapel with a ribbon cutting from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 5 at 26855 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Wesley Chapel. 
• Members celebrate Thriving Joy’s new space with a ribbon cutting from 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 6 at 18926 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Suite 102, Lutz.

Visit northtampabaychamber.com for details about the chamber and events.

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Greater Pasco Chamber will host a Greater Pasco Veterans Roundtable, business exchange, ribbon cutting and Young Professionals programming. 

• The Young Professionals Group networks during Coffee Connections from 9:30 to 11 a.m. July 31 at Starkey Market, 3460 Starkey Blvd., Trinity. 
• Members celebrate Second Story Thrift with a ribbon cutting from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 31 at 6612 U.S. 19, New Port Richey. The ribbon gets cut at 11:30 a.m.
• Members trade business materials during the Hudson Business Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 6 at Vitality Living Baypoint Village, 7927 State Road 52, Hudson. Members get in free. Others pay $10. Lunch costs $14. Register in advance. 
• Members attend the Greater Pasco Veterans Roundtable from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Aug. 12 at 4 & Co Coworking Spaces, 16703 Early Riser Ave., Land O’ Lakes. Members get in free. Others pay $10. Register in advance.

Visit greaterpasco.com for details about the chamber and events. 

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – The East Pasco Chamber will host After Hours Networking, Coffee & Networking, a ribbon cutting and women’s programming. 

• Members mingle during After Hours Networking from 4 to 5 p.m. July 30 at Dade City Tap House & Spirits, 37916 Pasco Ave., Dade City. 
• Members interact with each other during Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. July 31 at the Zephyrhills office (38550 5th Ave.). 
• Members interact with each other during Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. Aug. 4 at the Dade City office (14112 8th St.) and 8 to 9 a.m. Aug. 7 at the Zephyrhills office (38550 5th Ave.). 
• Members mingle during After Hours Networking from 4 to 5 p.m. Aug. 6 at Dade City Tap House & Spirits, 37916 Pasco Ave., Dade City. 
• Members celebrate the 15th anniversary of Hyperbaric Centers of Florida with a ribbon cutting from 10 a.m. to noon Aug. 7 at 5610 6th St., Zephyrhills. The ribbon gets cut at 11 a.m.
• Members interact with each other during Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. Aug. 11 at the Dade City office (14112 8th St.) and 8 to 9 a.m. Aug. 14 at the Zephyrhills office (38550 5th Ave.). 
• Dr. Janel Pastore, chief of breast imaging at Florida Medical Clinic | Orlando Health, speaks at the Women of East Pasco Business Alliance luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 11 at Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club, 12900 Lake Jovita Blvd., Dade City. Members pay $15. Others pay $20. Register by Aug. 3. 

Visit eastpascochamber.org for details about the chamber and events. 

Ajax Paving Industries supports Crisis Center

TAMPA – Ajax Paving Industries of Florida has become a corporate partner of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay with a $15,000 contribution.

The funding will support services that include suicide prevention, trauma therapy, substance recovery and programs for children and families facing behavioral health challenges.

“We are deeply grateful to Ajax for their support and for their commitment to addressing the stigma surrounding mental health – both in society and within the construction industry,” said Clara Reynolds, president and CEO of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. 

“Their partnership helps us deliver essential, 24/7 services to our community.”

Ajax Paving has made mental health a priority within the construction industry through employee training, including programs facilitated by the center. The company also created Ajax Warriors, a group of employees trained to support colleagues experiencing personal struggles.

Ajax President Vince Hafeli is a national advocate and speaker on behavioral health, workplace safety and suicide awareness.

“We are proud to partner with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay in support of their mission to provide care and resources to those in need,” said Scott Pittman, executive vice president of marketing and government affairs. “At Ajax Paving, we are committed to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, especially within the construction industry, and ensuring our support contributes to healthier, stronger communities.”

 

PulteGroup buys 136 acres in Wesley Chapel

WESLEY CHAPEL – PulteGroup has acquired 136 acres for The Enclave at King Lake, a new residential community in Wesley Chapel.

Pulte Homes plans to build 299 homesites, including 192 townhomes and 107 single-family homes. Development is expected to begin in August, with home sales starting in late 2027.

Townhomes will range from 1,451 to 1,879 square feet, while single-family homes will range from 1,707 to 3,162 square feet.

Planned amenities include a resort-style pool, cabana, walking trails, neighborhood parks and open space.

The community will be located near the 114-acre Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital campus under construction.

On the web: pulte.com

 

Suncoast brings back ‘Year of No Payments’

TAMPA – Suncoast Credit Union has brought back its Year of No Payments Giveaway for a second year.

Three members will win one year of rent, mortgage or car payments.

New members who join Suncoast online or at a branch through Dec. 31 will receive one entry. Existing members can enter by downloading and logging into the new Suncoast Mobile App.

The promotion includes three entry periods: July 1 to Aug. 31, Sept. 1 to Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 to Dec. 31. Entries carry over into subsequent drawing periods.

Suncoast awarded two members a year of payments in 2025. Wesley Chapel resident Jose Garcia chose a year of mortgage payments as his prize.

Visit Suncoast.com/NoPayments for details.

 

GTE Financial makes Forbes’ list

TAMPA – GTE Financial has been recognized by Forbes as one of Florida’s Best-In-State Credit Unions for 2026, earning the No. 10 spot in the publication’s annual rankings. 

GTE Financial was one of just 11 Florida credit unions recognized this year.

The annual rankings, developed by Forbes in partnership with market research firm Statista, are based on feedback from thousands of consumers who evaluated financial institutions on trust, customer service, digital services, financial advice and fee transparency. 

“This recognition reflects the trust our members place in us every day,” said Manny Aguilar, senior vice president and chief experience officer of GTE Financial. “At GTE Financial, we’re committed to helping our members achieve financial success by delivering exceptional service, innovative solutions and a personalized banking experience.”

 

Andy’s Frozen Custard adds summer flavors

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Andy’s Frozen Custard has added Peach Cobbler and Key Lime Pie treats to its menu through Sept. 8.

The new Peach Cobbler features vanilla frozen custard blended with fresh peaches and topped with cobbler crumble. It is available as a sundae or concrete.

The returning Key Lime Pie Concrete features a slice of key lime pie blended with vanilla frozen custard. A Key Lime quart is also available.

Andy’s is also celebrating its 40th anniversary by offering a limited-edition collectible cup with the purchase of any medium Concrete or Jackhammer while supplies last.

Andy’s Frozen Custard has locations in Lutz (19081 Wingshooter Way) and Odessa (13402 Pine Gap Spur).

On the web: eatandys.com

 

DADE CITY – Chapters Health System, a nonprofit hospice organization, has leased a 10,000-square-foot retail space at 12709 U.S. 301 in Dade City to serve as a new Life’s Treasures Thrift Store location.

The thrift store is moving from Zephyrhills to provide a more modernized shopping experience.

The relocation is part of a strategic update of the health system’s thrift stores that benefit the charity grief and hospice services of HPH Hospice and LifePath Hospice, affiliates of Chapters Health System. The organization also recently leased a 10,000-square-foot thrift store location planned for The Villages.

Ginger Gelsheimer and Juan Vega, of Colliers, represented Chapters Health System, in both transactions. Brandon Eggleston, of RMC Property Group, represented the landlord, RMC Morningside LLC, in the Dade City transaction.

“We were pleased to deliver a successful transaction for one of several new resale boutique locations for Chapters Health System this year,” said Gelsheimer, vice president of Colliers. “It was a smooth transaction working with RMC’s local team, and Chapters is confident that the new location will generate a lot of customer activity.”

The new Dade City location will offer increased visibility at the intersection of U.S. 301 and Morningside Drive in one of Pasco County’s fastest-growing corridors. The property was already configured to meet the tenant’s needs.

Life’s Treasures Thrift Store is part of Chapters Health Foundation and offers a wide selection of clothing, furniture, antiques, books, jewelry, collectibles, home décor and other gently used merchandise. There are five locations in the Tampa Bay area, including Brandon, Carrollwood, Tampa and New Port Richey.

The foundation supports community programs and helps patients and their families who cannot afford hospice, home health or palliative medicine services. It raises more than $5.2 million annually to supports patients and families.

Chapters Health System expects the Dade City location of Life’s Treasures Thrift Store to open by October.