Bank of America Brunch on the Bay helps USFSM graduates foster a cycle of growth in the region

Whether helping University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee graduates find jobs or serving as an instructor in the classroom, alumnus Pete Petersen is quick to support his alma mater.

The 2015 USFSM graduate is the CEO of auto dealership services provider Dealers United. He says that giving back leads to long-term dividends. His support helps position students to meet workforce demand for well-trained employees, ensuring a bright future for graduates and their families. It also fosters a cycle of growth in which current and future students support businesses, schools and the local community.

Petersen understands the importance of keeping home-grown talent here, which is one of the reasons he’s co-chairing this year’s Bank of America Brunch on the Bay, USF Sarasota-Manatee’s signature scholarship fundraiser.

Held each November – this year’s event is Nov. 3 on USFSM’s scenic campus – Bank of America Brunch on the Bay kicks off the social season in the region with a celebration that includes fine cuisine from some of the top restaurants and caterers in the region. 

Petersen is asking businesses to stand with him this November to support college scholarships.

“As a business owner, the hardest thing I struggle with is access to talent, and to find someone talented who already lives in this area and wants to stay and invest in this community, that is so important to my business,” he said. “USFSM is a tight-knit community and because of the culture grads tend to become even more invested in the community. For me, or for any business owner, it’s critically important to support that.”

For more about Bank of America Brunch on the Bay, visit usfsm.edu/brunch.

Brunch on the Bay