Point Park University looking to establish location in Florida

PITTSBURGH — Point Park University and the City of Bradenton, Fla., announced today that they are exploring a potential partnership to establish a future university location in Bradenton.

Early planning for the potential branch focuses on Point Park’s Conservatory of Performing Arts, with long-term vision allowing for expansion into additional academic programs. The effort aims to connect students with career-focused learning in arts, tourism, sports and business sectors across both communities.

As part of the exploratory process, Manatee County and Bradenton officials are examining how existing buildings in the downtown core could be utilized and retrofitted to accommodate a university presence. Local leaders are looking to align academic opportunities with downtown development and urban revitalization goals.

The proposed initiative builds on long-standing ties between the two municipalities, which are recognized as unofficial sister cities. Bradenton has also served as the spring training home for the Pittsburgh Pirates since 1969.

Point Park University President Chris W. Brussalis addressed the ongoing evaluation of the potential expansion.

“We are in the early stages of evaluating what a partnership in Bradenton could look like and how it may support the University’s long-term strategic vision,” Brussalis said. “While the Conservatory of Performing Arts is a natural starting point for these conversations, the opportunity is much broader and could create new pathways for students across the University to learn, intern and build careers in a vibrant and evolving market.”

Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown noted the potential educational and regional benefits of bringing a university site to the area.

“Bradenton and Manatee County value partnerships that strengthen our cultural and economic landscape,” Brown said. “This discussion with Point Park University reflects an exciting opportunity to showcase the Bradenton area as a place where students can learn, create and connect with industries that are important to our region.”

Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor pointed to the existing relationship between both cities and the university’s role in downtown development.

“Pittsburgh and Bradenton already have a great relationship, so this is an exciting potential partnership,” O’Connor said. “Point Park University plays a huge role in our Downtown community and its revitalization and this could be an opportunity for them to bring that same kind of energy to support Bradenton’s urban core. We hope that this could lead to even more partnership to bring students, families and businesses to both Pittsburgh and Bradenton throughout the year.”

Discussions between Point Park University and Bradenton area leaders remain exploratory. Additional planning will continue with local and regional partners to evaluate the feasibility of the potential Florida location.

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