Grassroots Victory: Ringling Museum Stays with FSU After NCF Bid Fails

Sarasota, Florida, USA - The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art will remain under the stewardship of Florida State University (FSU), following a determined grassroots campaign that successfully halted the proposed transfer to New College of Florida (NCF). This decision came as the proposal was excluded from the 2025 state legislative budget, a development confirmed by the advocacy group Citizens to Protect the Ringling on Tuesday. The campaign, which commenced in February, saw former museum board chairs, trustees, and local advocates rallying support from the community, ultimately mobilizing thousands of residents through letters, public forums, and direct outreach to lawmakers. As Herald Tribune reports, State Senator Jim Boyd played a pivotal role in ensuring the proposal’s dismissal, making it clear that local voices were heard.

Concerns surrounding NCF’s capability to manage the museum complex were at the forefront of the debate. Critics pointed out the fiscal uncertainties and enrollment challenges NCF faced since the 2023 overhaul of its board under Governor Ron DeSantis. This scrutiny was echoed by local arts leaders and museum supporters, who voiced apprehensions about the college’s ability to maintain critical services such as IT, security, and ticket sales, essential for the historic institution that attracts over 400,000 visitors annually.

A Community United

Nancy Parrish, a former board member of the museum, described the Ringling Museum as a „significant cultural asset,“ emphasizing its 66-acre campus that encompasses gardens, an art museum, and historic sites. As noted by FOX 13 News, Parrish criticized the proposal as a “backroom deal” that disrespected the Gulf Coast community and called for accountability from state legislators regarding the decision-making process behind the proposed transfer. Her sentiments were shared by the nearly 2,500 members of Citizens to Protect the Ringling, who advocated for the museum’s independence from NCF’s management.

The grassroots campaign seemed to resonate on various levels, capturing the support of locals who sent letters and contacted legislators to clarify the risks posed by the proposed takeover. The opposition was loud and clear: the Ringling Museum has thrived under FSU’s management since 2000, earning accolades for its financial stability and positive impact on tourism. With a history of collaboration and support, many in the community feel that FSU is more suited to continue overseeing this vital institution.

Eyes on the Future

With the legislative proposal now off the table, the Ringling Museum will maintain its operations without the looming uncertainty of a management transition. The long-standing relationship between FSU and the museum is expected to bolster its future growth, especially as New College, led by President Richard Corcoran, briefly considered what an acquisition might entail. Corcoran expressed excitement about the museum’s oversight opportunity when the proposal was first floated, viewing it as an „amazing“ partnership. However, FSU’s long-established stewardship ultimately prevailed, ensuring stability for the iconic Sarasota landmark.

The conversation around the museum and its governance could still evolve, but for now, arts supporters can breathe a sigh of relief. The close proximity of the museum and New College, located less than a mile apart on Bay Shore Road, might foster informal collaborations, yet the museum will remain firmly anchored in its institutional history with FSU. As highlighted by WUSF, any future proposals will likely face similar scrutiny, as local advocates continue to engage the community regarding the preservation and management of such a cherished cultural institution.