Director’s Newsletter | Fall 2026
Dear Friends,
As I write my first newsletter as Director of the Hamilton School, I want to begin with a simple message: thank you.
Over the past several months, I have had the opportunity to meet many members of the Hamilton School community, and I have been struck by the enthusiasm, generosity, and commitment that surround this institution. From faculty and students to alumni, donors, and friends across the country, I have seen firsthand how deeply people believe in the School’s mission and its future.
For those I have not yet had the privilege of meeting, allow me to briefly introduce myself. Throughout my career, I have been guided by a commitment to public service and by a belief that strong institutions play a vital role in preparing thoughtful, principled leaders. Those experiences have shown me that leadership matters, character matters, and education matters. They have also reinforced my conviction that the ideas and values we pass on to the next generation help shape the future of our communities, our nation, and our civic life.
That is why the opportunity to lead the Hamilton School was so compelling to me. The School’s mission resonates deeply with my own professional journey and personal convictions. At a moment when our nation is reflecting on its founding ideals and looking ahead to its next 250 years, the work being done here could not be more important. Preparing leaders who can think seriously, act responsibly, and serve the public good is both a timeless challenge and an urgent one.
What made my decision especially easy, however, was seeing how much has already been accomplished. The Hamilton School is not simply a promising vision. It is a thriving institution built through the hard work of dedicated faculty, talented students, committed staff, visionary supporters, and strong University partners. I arrive with a deep respect for the foundation that has been laid and a genuine excitement about what lies ahead.
In the months and years to come, I look forward to getting to know more of you personally. The Hamilton School’s success has always been rooted in the people who believe in its mission, and I am eager to listen, learn, and build relationships across this growing community. Together, we have an extraordinary opportunity to shape the future of a school that is preparing the next generation of leaders for lives of service, citizenship, and impact.
As we begin a new academic year, I am pleased to share a few highlights that reflect the remarkable momentum of the Hamilton School.
Welcoming Outstanding New Faculty
This fall, we welcome 18 new faculty members whose scholarly achievements and teaching excellence further strengthen the Hamilton School’s national reputation. Joining us from distinguished institutions including Oxford, Cambridge, Chicago, Columbia, Berkeley, and other leading universities, these scholars bring expertise across history, political science, economics, philosophy, public policy, and international affairs.
Their arrival represents a major investment in academic excellence and our commitment to providing students with a truly exceptional education. Read more about our newest faculty members and their accomplishments.
Expanding Academic Opportunities
Beginning this fall, the Hamilton School is launching four significant new academic programs:
Undergraduate Programs
- B.A. in War, Statecraft, and Strategy (and Minor)
- B.A. in American Government, History, Literature, and Law (and Minor)
Graduate Programs
- M.A. and Ph.D. in War, Statecraft, and Strategy
- M.A. and Ph.D. in the History of Ideas
Together, these programs expand opportunities for students to engage deeply with the study of leadership, governance, strategy, and the enduring ideas that shape civilization. Learn more about our undergraduate programs here and our graduate programs here.
Building Hamilton’s Future Home
Exciting progress also continues on the renovation of the historic UF Infirmary, which will become the Hamilton School’s permanent home. The Collegiate Gothic landmark is being thoughtfully restored to create an academic environment that reflects the School’s mission while preserving an important part of the University’s history.
Inspired by the traditions of Oxford and Cambridge, the renovated facility will feature seminar rooms, reading and gathering spaces, event venues, and other areas designed to foster learning, discussion, and intellectual community. More than a building, this project represents a long-term investment in the Hamilton School’s future and in the generations of students who will learn and lead from its halls.
View renderings and learn more about our future home.
Looking Ahead
The Hamilton School enters Fall 2026 with extraordinary momentum. We are expanding our faculty, launching innovative new academic programs, and building a permanent home that reflects the ambition and promise of our mission.
None of this would be possible without the support of our alumni, friends, and donors. Your partnership has helped transform an ambitious vision into one of the nation’s most exciting centers for civic education and leadership development.
On behalf of our students, faculty, and staff, thank you for your continued confidence in the Hamilton School. I look forward to building the next chapter of this remarkable institution together.
With gratitude,
Charles Canady
Director
Hamilton School for Classical and Civic Education
University of Florida
