Sports, Business, and Philanthropy: A Conversation with Jeff Vinik

Jeff Vinik is the owner of the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Tampa Bay Storm - as well as principal with Strategic Property Partners. An exceptional fund manager who has transitioned in new roles as an entrepreneur and civic leader, he is a sought-after speaker who inspires passion.

At this lecture, cosponsored by the USF Muma College of Business and the USF Honors College, the Duke and Harvard alumnus will discuss sports, business, and philanthropy - three of the cornerstones of his career.

During the early stage of his career, Vinik managed the Fidelity Magellan Fund in the 1990s, averaging 17 percent annual returns. After leaving Fidelity, he founded the Vinik Asset Management hedge fund and generated outstanding returns until he stepped away from investing in 2010.

When Vinik purchased the Tampa Bay Lightning, he envisioned an NHL experience like none other, one that focused on fans as much as the team – and recognized the importance of building support and partnerships from and throughout the Tampa Bay community.

Vinik’s Tampa story is about a lot more than hockey. He has turned Amalie Arena into a world-class facility that has become one of the top venues for sports, music, and conventions.

Today, Vinik is focused on a new vision: one that revitalizes Tampa’s Channelside District and spurs economic growth throughout the region. He wants to transform a desolate corner of downtown Tampa into a thriving urban neighborhood. His potential downtown expansion will include nearly three million square feet with three new office and hotel towers, USF’s medical school, 500 residential units and 5,000 additional parking spaces.

RSVPs are essential as seating is limited and a capacity crowd is expected.

IMPORTANT PARKING INFORMATION:

Parking for this event is in the USF Sun Dome parking lot. All guests without a USF parking permit must stop at the Campus Information Center at the main entrance (4202 E. Fowler Avenue) to purchase a daily visitor parking pass ($5) or purchase a guest parking pass at one of the pay stations in the USF Sun Dome parking lot (credit card payment only).