About Us

Welcome to Atala Hall

Welcome to Atala Hall! 

Opening in August 2024, we are thrilled to invite students to live in the very first residence hall on the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus, Atala Hall! 

Where did the name "Atala Hall" come from?

The name Atala came from the Atala butterfly! The Atala butterflies are small with inky black wings, speckled with iridescent blue spots and a bright red body. They symbolize transformation, resilience, and the importance of harmony with the natural world. Once thought to be extinct, they are making a comeback thanks to the popularity of its host plant in Florida and they can be found on the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus! The butterfly's rarity is also a testament to the delicate balance of nature and the potential for revival and renewal in the face of adversity. 

Inspired by these rare butterflies who live in the USF Sarasota-Manatee courtyard, our unique students come here for a short while, to live, learn, and grow. They then fly away to their next adventure and fly back as alumni to enjoy the campus year after year.

The name was selected after a campus committee of students, faculty and staff considered numerous possible names; an online survey that drew more than 300 responses; and review and selection by Sarasota-Manatee campus Regional Chancellor Karen Holbrook and USF President Rhea Law.

To learn more about the Atala butterfly, visit the Florida Wildflower Foundation.

Hear more about the comback and resilience of the Atala butterfly below.