T-Mobile and USF collaborate to provide scholarships to students and enhance on-campus connectivity with Advanced Network Solutions

By Ryan Hughes, University Communications and Marketing

The University of South Florida and T-Mobile today announced a new initiative aimed at providing scholarships for students, improving internet and cellular wireless network capabilities and enhancing public safety communications in high-traffic areas on the university's Tampa campus.

USF has a mission to foster student success and enhance the overall campus experience. Through this new program, T-Mobile will provide dedicated on-campus connectivity for USF with its portfolio of Advanced Network Solutions (ANS). T-Mobile will also support USF students with annual scholarships to benefit undergraduates pursuing degrees in cybersecurity and other disciplines, including those housed in USF's new Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing. The multi-year agreement also positions T-Mobile as USF's main cellular wireless network provider.

"T-Mobile understands and values the significance of higher education, and the importance of providing life-changing opportunities for our students. This partnership supports our students' success, while also enhancing internet and cell service on campus that will benefit our students, faculty, staff and visitors," said USF President Rhea Law.

T-Mobile's ANS will enhance 5G coverage in and around the eastern part of the Tampa campus, which includes the future site of USF's on-campus stadium, expected to open in fall 2027.

T-Mobile will also be deploying ANS for a dedicated public safety system across dozens of designated facilities on campus. T-Mobile will deliver enhanced 5G connections to buildings around the campus specifically designed to support public safety communication needs and ensure reliable coverage for emergency services with dedicated infrastructure tailored to support robust and uninterrupted communications for police, first responders and other emergency personnel.

"Our collaboration with the University of South Florida represents a powerful intersection of technology, education, and community impact," said David Bezzant, Vice President, T-Mobile for Government. "This collaboration is about turning innovation into real-world outcomes for USF. With enhanced 5G infrastructure, dedicated public safety systems, and support for emerging talent in cybersecurity and AI, we're helping build a smarter, safer, and more connected campus experience."