The program sponsors activities that enrich the intellectual and cultural life of students, faculty and staff on the UF campus, and that address the needs of educators and business groups across the state. Conferences Every year since 1951, the Center has sponsored a public conference that attracts participants from around the world. The topics vary according to the interests of UF faculty and changing priorities in the region. Participants in both programs are housed with local families. In collaboration with the Latin American and Caribbean Center at Florida International University, the Center also offers a summer program for the study of Haitian language and culture, held in Miami with field trips to Haiti.
Programs are also available for the school year.
The first Bacardi Scholar was Oscar Arias, former President of Costa Rica and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in Central America.