Making the Grade

When Wilson Bradshaw arrived last November to take the helm of Florida Gulf Coast University, he promised to work with the business community to define Southwest Florida’s needs and develop a bright economic future. His first year has been marked by an economy that continues to tumble with the housing market and by budget cuts to the university. But he’s earning high marks as president of Florida’s 10th state university and effusive praise from local business leaders, as well as some suggestions for improvement for him and the university.

Bradshaw sees FGCU’s role as a catalyst for discussion and action to steer economic development in Southwest Florida, a role that will expand in the future. "In the first 10 years, you try to establish yourself as a university," he says. In its second decade, the university can focus more on meeting the needs of the area’s workforce and helping to carve Southwest Florida’s niche in the global economy, he says.

"Dr. Bradshaw has embraced that initiative with strong support and vigor, and I couldn’t be more pleased," says Richard Botthof, head of the Regional Business Alliance of Southwest Florida, which includes about 50 local current and former CEOs of Fortune 500 companies. "FGCU has always been very supportive and engaged in promoting economic development, job creation, all the necessary things to create a vibrant economy," Botthof says.

We asked leaders in the business community to evaluate Bradshaw’s performance so far, and they identified six areas where he has distinguished himself.

Outreach: Bradshaw has combed the community to meet with business and civic groups throughout Southwest Florida. That personal contact has helped him meet key people, while helping to advance his agenda. Beyond the typical grin and grab, he’s asking, "What can we do for you to meet your needs?"