Jillian Hasner
Florida Atlantic University First Lady
Alongside her husband, Florida Atlantic University (FAU) President Adam Hasner, Jillian Hasner is ushering in an exciting new chapter for Florida Atlantic University. “At Florida Atlantic, we’re in the business of changing lives,” says Hasner, who became First Lady less than a year ago and enjoys talking with students about their academics and passions.
“One-third of our students are first-generation. Forty percent are from low-income households. Changing one student’s life through education changes the life of an entire family and shapes the future of a community.”
To strengthen Florida Atlantic’s connection to Boca Raton, the Hasners will host Soirée 65, a celebration of the university’s 65th anniversary. Set for March 28, 2026, at The Boca Raton, the President’s Gala will raise critical funds for programs that aid student success and retention.
“This isn’t just a party; it’s about the impact we’re making,” explains Hasner. “We’re inviting the community to celebrate how far Florida Atlantic has come and to be part of its future.”
Proceeds from Soirée 65 will support scholarships, housing and meal plan assistance, mentoring programs, internships, and other initiatives. “Florida Atlantic is Boca’s hometown university,” says Hasner. “You see that when community members attend our football games, theatrical productions, and gallery exhibits.”
Raised in Ohio in a philanthropic, faith-based family, Hasner learned early the power of giving back. For more than a decade, she led Take Stock in Children, a nonprofit that helps break the cycle of poverty for Florida youth. She remains an active participant in the organization.
Founded in 1961 as an upper-division university, Florida Atlantic now serves more than 32,000 undergraduate and graduate students across six campuses. The university offers programs in medicine, business, social work, nursing, arts, marine biology, and more.
Students are also drawn to the university’s Grammy-winning music programs and groundbreaking research in ocean science and national defense.
“Florida Atlantic has always held a special place in my heart,” says Hasner, who is proud that recently Florida Atlantic earned the Carnegie Foundation’s R1: Very High Research distinction, a designation held by fewer than five percent of U.S. universities. “Being part of its future is a privilege.”
Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, 561-297-6144, fau.edu
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