This document presents a speech by the President of Florida International University concerning the creation of the institution. Florida International is an upper-level college located outside of Miami. The institution has been innovative in its physical structure as well as in its educational philosophy. Located at the site of the abandoned Tamiami Airport, the institution has utilized the control tower and old hangars as administrative and faculty office buildings. Two new multipurpose buildings have also been constructed at the site that will be used as classroom buildings. The institution is designed to be a completely commuter school, but it is hoped that apartments will be constructed nearby for those students who reside outside of commuting distance. The philosophy of the institution is urban oriented with an inbuilt community service program as its main core. FIU is also internationally oriented, and faculty and students alike are to reflect the international flavor that is evident in the Miami area. The institution opened its doors for the first time to students in the fall of 1972, just 2 months after the present speech was presented. (HS)