When Dr. Herbert Wertheim and his wife, Nicole, first met, they had $200 between the two of them. Through perseverance, innovation and commitment, they were able to build and achieve their dreams. And now, with a dedication to making the world a better place, they are committed to powering the next generation of New Engineers who will transform the future.
Herbie is the founder and CEO of Brain Power Inc., the world’s largest manufacturer of ophthalmic instruments and chemicals. He attended UF in the early 1960s before becoming a scientist, clinician, entrepreneur, philanthropist and community leader whose discoveries and contributions in eye care and other scientific fields have touched millions.
Herbie and Nicole’s $50 million gift this past fall is the second-largest ever to the university, and launched a $300 million initiative to expand and reimagine engineering education and discovery in the 21st century. In all, the Wertheims have contributed more than $100 million to Florida public higher education. Their investment in UF puts the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering on the forefront of engineering education, research and technology development.
Congratulations to Herbie and Nicole for receiving the Transformational Leadership Award at the UF Academy of Golden Gators Awards – and thank you for investing in our future.