Felicia Combs Donates $50 Million to University of Central Florida: “Giving Back to the Place That Shaped Me”
Orlando, FL — April 20, 2025
In a groundbreaking act of generosity and gratitude, renowned meteorologist Felicia Combs has donated $50 million to the University of Central Florida (UCF), her alma mater. The donation is one of the largest in UCF history and will fund advancements in weather science education, student scholarships, and the creation of a new climate research center.
Combs, who has become a household name through her work on The Weather Channel and other national outlets, made the announcement during a special event on UCF’s campus, where she was also honored with a commemorative mural celebrating her contributions to meteorology and public communication.
> “UCF gave me the foundation to chase my dreams,” Combs said. “This university believed in me and equipped me with the tools I needed to succeed. Now, it’s my turn to pay it forward.”
UCF President Alexander Cartwright praised Combs’ generosity, calling it a “transformational moment” for the university.
> “Felicia’s story is one of resilience, brilliance, and public service,” Cartwright said. “Her donation ensures that UCF will continue to lead in the fields of environmental science, meteorology, and communication.”
The funds will establish the Felicia Combs Center for Climate Communication, renovate campus weather labs, and launch a scholarship initiative for women and minorities pursuing STEM careers, particularly in atmospheric science.
Combs’ mural, commissioned by the Central Florida Arts Alliance, is set to be unveiled in downtown Orlando later this year and will highlight her impact as both a scientist and a communicator.
> “This is about more than weather—it’s about people, about access, and about creating the future we want to see,” Combs said. “And for me, that future begins right here at UCF.”
