Slideshow: Dedication of UF's Charles Steinmetz Hall

GAINESVILLE, Fla. --- University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences officially renamed the campus’ entomology and nematology building for alumnus and pest management businessman Charles Steinmetz in a May 25 ceremony.

After a short ceremony and unveiling of a sign with the building’s new name, entomology and nematology faculty will conducted tours of the building.

Earlier this year, Charles Steinmetz and his wife, Lynn, donated $5 million to create five new permanent endowments. The endowments include three professorships, an entrepreneurship fellowship fund, and a research fund. The gift also includes support for an existing student scholarship fund.

The professorships to be established with the gift will address growing issues in pest management, and help scientists apply emerging technologies to solve complex problems.

Steinmetz said he strongly supports UF scientists’ efforts to develop new environmentally friendly pest management methods.

The Winter Park, Fla., couple has a long history of generosity. They previously established an endowed scholarship fund for entomology graduate students and are also involved in supporting the visual and performing arts in the Orlando area.

Charles Steinmetz serves on the board of directors of both the Orlando Science Center and the University of Florida Foundation Inc.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural and life sciences from UF in 1961. He began his career with Orkin as a district branch manager, and in 1977, bought Middleton Pest Control, which he later sold to Sunair Service Corp.

In 1982, he founded All America Termite and Pest Control Inc. and in 1997, sold it to Sears Roebuck and Co. He received a UF Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1999.