LEADERSHIP IN RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE
PREEMINENT STATE RESEARCH UNIVERSITY
The Wall of Wind, one of only eight U.S. National Science Foundation hazards engineering Experimental Facilities.
Dear Colleagues (or name),
At Florida International University (FIU), we are proud to lead with purpose, innovation, and a deep commitment to Florida’s future. As our state, country, and world deal with natural disasters, like hurricanes, FIU’s top scientists and engineers are conducting hurricane-related research to better prepare and respond to major storms. As leaders committed to advancing knowledge and the public good, sharing what we have learned is central to our mission.
FIU is significantly investing in infrastructure research that creates safer buildings and stronger communities. Our Wall of Wind facility – part of our $500 million investment in environmental resilience –conducts full-scale testing capable of generating hurricane winds up to 157 MPH, helping to strengthen construction standards and further inform public safety.
As we enter the 2025 hurricane season, Last Train to Paradise: Henry Flagler and the Spectacular Rise and Fall of the Railroad that Crossed an Ocean offers a timely perspective and a powerful reminder of what’s at stake for our communities. In his acclaimed book, Distinguished University Professor Les Standiford weaves a gripping true account of the extraordinary construction and demise of the Key West Railroad, which was decimated by the Labor Day hurricane of 1935.
Our hope is that this book invites reflection and sparks dialogue on how our institutions can collaborate to strengthen resilience through research, innovation, and shared expertise.
Overall Impact in U.S., Times Higher Education Impact Ranking, 2024
Jeanette M. Nuñez President Florida International University
Elizabeth M. Béjar Provost, Executive Vice President, and Chief Operating Officer Florida International University
