The University of Miami has reached a historic milestone – 100 years of excellence, innovation, and Canes pride. Founded in 1925 at the height of the South Florida land boom, the University has grown from its roots in Coral Gables into a global leader in research, education, and community impact. With more than 200,000 alumni around the world and a legacy of life-changing opportunities, this centennial marks a moment to reflect, honor, and celebrate.
Image Source: University of Miami
As we look back on a century of achievements, it’s fitting that just steps from THesis Hotel Miami, the University of Miami is an integral part of our neighborhood—and our story. Whether you’re a student, alumni, faculty, or simply a fan of the U, this is a celebration you don’t want to miss.
To set the stage for what makes UM so remarkable, let’s explore the facts and figures that define this institution.
Facts & Numbers about the University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL
The University of Miami was chartered in 1925 by a group of citizens during the South Florida land boom. By the fall of 1926, its inaugural class of 646 students had enrolled on the Coral Gables campus despite a major hurricane and economic challenges.
Notable alumni include Gloria Estefan, a seven–time Grammy Award–winning singer-songwriter; Enrique Iglesias, a Grammy-winning artist; and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, a former Hurricanes football standout and global entertainment icon.
Faculty and alumni include four Nobel Prize recipients, underscoring UM’s profound impact on global scholarship. Each was recognized for groundbreaking work in their field, from quantum theory and hormone signaling to nitric-oxide biology and lyrical poetry:
- Paul Dirac (Physics, 1933) – “for the discovery of new productive forms of atomic theory,” shared with Erwin Schrödinger
- Earl W. Sutherland Jr. (Physiology or Medicine, 1971) – “for his discoveries concerning the mechanisms of the action of hormones,” specifically his work on cyclic AMP as a second messenger
- Robert F. Furchgott (Physiology or Medicine, 1998) – “for their discoveries concerning nitric oxide as a signalling molecule in the cardiovascular system,” shared with Louis J. Ignarro and Ferid Murad
- Juan Ramón Jiménez (Literature, 1956) – “for his lyrical poetry, which in Spanish language constitutes an example of high spirit and artistical purity”
Building on that proud beginning, let’s quantify UM’s growth today.
UM in numbers:
- 19,593 total students (12,570 undergraduates; 6,710 graduates)
- 363 programs (148 BA, 148 MA, 67 PhD)
- 453-acre Coral Gables campus – comprises over 5.7 million square feet of academic, residential, and research space
- $1.37 billion endowment (2023)
- $456 million+ annual research spend (2023)
- 229,710+ alumni across 174 countries
- Association of American Universities “R1” status (one of only 65 U.S. members)
- 7% international students (from 100+ countries)
These figures underline UM’s academic might—now let’s celebrate its athletic achievements.
A Century of Canes Pride
The Miami Canes have won 21 national team championships—including five NCAA football titles—making UM one of the nation’s most decorated athletic programs.
The Hurricanes football program began in 1926 and made UM the football university of Miami. As a freshman squad that posted an undefeated 8–0 record despite a hurricane that postponed its debut, giving rise to the unforgettable “Hurricanes” nickname, establishing UM as the premier football university of Miami.
Varsity play kicked off in 1927 under former NFL player and coach Howard “Cub” Buck, whose team opened with a 39–3 victory over Rollins College. Decades later, UM emerged as a national powerhouse, claiming five AP national championships in 1983, 1987, 1989, 1991, and 2001, and sending over 350 players to the NFL through the draft.
Hall of Famers Michael Irvin, Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Jim Kelly, and Edgerrin James cemented The U’s reputation for elite talent. Iconic game-day spectacles—smoke-filled entrances in the 1980s and the Turnover Chain in 2017—embody Hurricanes swagger.
No Canes story would be complete without Sebastian the Ibis. Legend says the Everglades’ ibis was the last to seek shelter in the 1926 storm and the first to return, so UM’s yearbook adopted it as an unofficial mascot that same year. By 1958, student John Stormont donned a homemade “Sebastian the Ibis” costume—complete with glued-on feathers and a painted beak—paving the way for the spirited mascot who rallies fans today.
A Week to Remember: UM’s Centennial Kickoff
The centennial festivities began with a birthday celebration on Tuesday, April 8, commemorating the University’s official charter date. What followed was a week of exciting events for the UM community and the public—bringing together generations of Canes to honor a century of accomplishments.
Fueled by a century of Canes spirit, the centennial festivities launched with the kickoff event featured a vibrant lineup of rides, games, live music, fireworks, and free food stations, offering a fun-filled evening for all ages. The energy was palpable, the Canes spirit undeniable, and the celebration a perfect nod to 100 years of history.
Centennial Celebration: Open to the Public
The University’s Centennial Celebration is open to the public and welcomes everyone to join in. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or just discovering the magic of UM, this event offers a chance to experience the culture, pride, and energy that define the Hurricane legacy.
From family-friendly attractions to spectacular fireworks lighting up the South Florida sky, the centennial celebration showcases everything the University of Miami stands for – community, connection, and a forward-thinking vision for the future.
Organized by the UM Community, For the UM Community
Spearheading this unforgettable celebration is the Centennial Honorary Committee, a diverse team of students, alumni, faculty, staff, and trustees who have worked together to make the event truly meaningful. Their efforts reflect the heart of the U: a passionate community committed to excellence and inclusivity.
Your Home Base in Coral Gables During The Centennial
Planning to attend the Centennial Celebration? THesis Hotel Miami, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, is your perfect home base. Located just across the street from the University of Miami, we offer convenient access to all the centennial festivities, along with a welcoming space to relax, recharge, and reflect on the celebrations.
Beyond the Classroom & the Stadium, Coral Gables is yours to explore
Whether you’re craving local flavor or a scenic stroll, you’re just steps from:
- Local eateries and cafés beloved by students and foodies
- Shaded banyan-tree paths that wind onto campus
- Hurry ’Cane shuttle connections to Coral Gables’ galleries, shops, and UM events
Back at THesis, the fun never stops. Savor Mamey’s island-minded Caribbean-Asian fusion fare, then head up to Ivy Rooftop for live jazz and skyline views, or cross the lobby to The Collab for Mediterranean-Asian small plates, art installations, and weekend DJs. With Collab Hour happy hours, race-weekend tailgates, and Carnaval block parties on the Paseo, there’s always something happening under our roof.
As a valued member of the Hurricane community, University of Miami alumni, faculty, and teachers enjoy exclusive THesis Hotel discounts, including up to 15% off room rates and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi.
Join us in honoring 100 years of the University of Miami, and be part of a historic moment filled with pride, purpose, and Hurricanes spirit. Book your stay and here’s to the next 100 years!
