The Wertheim Legacy2022-03-22T09:45:33-04:00

The Wertheim Legacy

Dr. Herbert and Nicole Wertheim’s thought leadership and philanthropy have been an integral part of Florida International University’s growth and rise to preeminence. By repeatedly demonstrating their belief in and support of “Miami’s Hometown University” and FIU’s ability to transform people and communities, The Wertheim family has provided both the vision and the resources for the University to make unprecedented impacts.

From the first investments in 1996 with gifts of more than $1 million to the University’s music, theatre, and dance programs, establishing The Herbert and Nicole Wertheim Performing Arts Center, to the Sydell Ida Wertheim Concert Organ, and the new Wertheim Graduate Program in Organ Performance, The Wertheims’ continued support has catalyzed impactful changes and brought prestige to FIU and its College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts.

Continuing to synergize their investments and commitment to the performing arts, Dr. Herbert and Nicole Wertheim have made another transformational gift that will forever change FIU and its communities. The school is on the cusp of even greater achievements thanks to the continued support from Dr. Herbert and Nicole Wertheim’s historic $10 million gift — the largest donation ever to be gifted to a school of music at a public university in Florida. By the end of nine years, the gift will be matched by FIU, which will result in $20 million going directly to expand the school’s programs, scholarships, graduate assistantship opportunities for students and support for faculty. The gift will also allow for renovating its physical building, the Herbert and Nicole Wertheim Performing Arts Center, and the addition of Herbie’s Café and a community gathering space for students.