Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Thanks to a significant philanthropic gift from Eddy Benoit, Jr. (BSBC ’93), the Dean’s Suite at the University of Florida College of Design, Construction and Planning was officially renamed the Benoit Family Dean’s Suite in a ceremony held last week at the college.
“It is a phenomenal recognition to come back here 30-plus years later and see this type of homage paid to my family,” Benoit, Jr. said. “I would have never thought something like this would happen when I was here as a freshman, so it definitely underscores that I have been on the right path. I am just elated.”
The generous investment supports the long-overdue renovation of DCP’s dean’s suite, a space that has remained largely unchanged for more than 20 years. The transformation creates a more modern office setting that reflects the forward-thinking work of the college while helping to modernize its day-to-day operations. The newly redesigned suite serves as a cross-functional hub, incorporating upgraded technology and contemporary aesthetics that mirror the disciplines DCP engages in every day. Reimagined as a dynamic, collaborative environment, the space brings together all elements of the college in a setting designed to foster connection, innovation and leadership.
The ceremony, attended by Benoit’s family, fraternity brothers, friends, faculty and staff from the college, began with DCP Executive Director of Advancement Seth Watts welcoming everyone back to Gainesville.
“We are here because of the orange and blue that runs through the veins of Eddy Benoit, Jr., whose work over the past three decades has helped shaped communities across the nation” Watts said. “This naming ceremony recognizes more than individual success. It recognizes a family’s impact—one that extends from classrooms and communities to the next generation of designers, planners, and builders who will follow the path Eddy helped to illuminate. It is both a moment of gratitude and a celebration of a legacy that will continue to inspire for years to come.”
Dean Chimay Anumba followed with similar words of appreciation. He reminded the audience that the newly minted Benoit Family Dean’s Suite serves as the family room of the college where students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends sit and relax in a comforting atmosphere before meeting with members of the DCP family.
“He is an alumnus who has shaped the world we live in since he left Gainesville after graduation, and now he has come back to shape the college for future graduates,” Anumba said. “Thank you to Eddy and the Benoit Family for this gift that will benefit students, faculty and staff for years to come.”
