Burnett House: A Historical Residence at the University of Central Florida
Established in 1963 as Florida Technological University, the University of Central Florida (UCF) has experienced significant growth. As part of preserving its history, UCF has created tours of campus buildings, including images and descriptions of their purposes. The Burnett House stands as a testament to the university's growth and the generosity of its benefactors.
The Early Years of UCF
In 1963, the Florida Legislature approved the establishment of a state university for east central Florida's nine counties. Governor Farris Bryant appointed Charles Millican as the university's first president in 1965. Millican shaped the destiny of the university, choosing the name Florida Technological University due to its proximity to Cape Kennedy and the technological emphasis the school would have. The university's motto, "Reach for the Stars," came to him on an airplane. During his tenure, Millican established the state of Florida's first bachelor's degree program in computer science, founded an engineering college, and modernized registration. By the end of 1978, UCF had grown to 11,000 students.
A Shift in Focus
H. Trevor Colbourn became UCF’s second president in 1978. He changed the name of the university to reflect a broader mission. Colbourn established the College of Arts and Sciences and approved the expansion of departments and programs. He created the Office of Undergraduate Studies, established the Honors Program, strengthened graduate teaching, and created doctoral programs. Colbourn also established the Central Florida Research Park. UCF’s campuses began to grow under his guidance. He oversaw the expansion of the main campus library and new academic buildings. In September 1979, under Colbourn's direction, UCF played and won its first Division III football game.
The Burnett Era Begins
Steven Altman was inaugurated as UCF’s third president in 1989. Al and Nancy Burnett endowed a $1 million accounting chair. They continued to make gifts, including endowing The Burnett Honors College and giving the naming gift for the president’s home, the Burnett House.
John C. Hitt's Vision and the Creation of Burnett House
John C. Hitt became the university’s fourth president in 1992. During his tenure, enrollment nearly tripled, and UCF greatly expanded access to higher education. Hitt's drive to establish UCF as America’s leading partnership university made UCF synonymous with the progress and prosperity of Central Florida. In 1996, Hitt founded the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. During his presidency, UCF launched more than $1 billion in new construction.
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Burnett House was constructed in 1997 during Dr. John C. Hitt’s presidency, completed in 20 months. The 8,500 square foot home is located on the west side of campus near Alafaya Trail. It was built with funds from the University of Central Florida Foundation and donations from Al and Nancy Burnett, hence its name.
Design and Purpose
Architects Bernie Johnson and Robert A. Harris from Orlando worked on the one-story, 23-room home. Don Jernigan was the contractor, and Berta Hall was the interior designer. Burnett House was designed as a private residence and a place where UCF presidents could hold events and dinner parties for up to 200 guests. It has three kitchens, including one for catering events. A cordless microphone system, connected to speakers throughout the house, allowed Dr. Hitt and subsequent presidents to give speeches during special events.
A Home for UCF Presidents
Since Dr. Hitt’s retirement in June 2018, Burnett House has been home to Dr. Dale Whittaker and his wife, Mary, as well as Dr. Alexander Cartwright and his wife, Melinda. Interim President Thad Seymour and his wife Katie opted not to move into the house.
The Burnett Honors College
In 1998, the UCF Honors Program was granted college status. Al and Nancy Burnett donated $1.5 million towards the completion of a building to house the new honors college, named in their honor. A state grant matched the donation, bringing total funding to $3 million. The college administers UCF's two honors programs, University Honors and Honors Undergraduate Thesis (HUT).
Impact and Legacy
Over the years, Al and Nancy Burnett raised $12.5 million for the university. One of their last projects was in 2001, when the Burnetts sold their dealership and donated the proceeds to the university to create its sixth college.
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UCF continues to make an impact through student success and research efforts. UCF will continue to play an integral role in Central Florida healthcare. With virtual persistent worlds becoming a closer reality, the insight of experts at UCF will be in high demand. With a revitalized national interest in space, UCF draws on its roots as Space U.
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