History of the Calfee Tax Institute (formerly known as the Florida Tax Institute)
Dennis Calfee
In the fall of 2012, a group of University of Florida graduate tax program alumni—along with several esteemed Professors of the program—met to discuss the creation of a tax institute organized by tax practitioners for tax practitioners. That group included Professors Dennis Calfee, Marty McMahon, Mike Friel and Sam Ullman and practitioners Jack Bovay, Lauren Detzel, Richie Comiter, David Pratt, Don Tescher, Jeff Scroggin, and Lou Nostro.
Out of a desire to showcase a program that greatly contributed to the lives and careers of its founders, the Florida Tax Institute was born. And in early 2014, the inaugural Florida Tax Institute emerged in Tampa, Florida. Since that time, the three-day Institute has showcased best-in-class speakers on a variety of cutting-edge tax topics. Some of the finest tax minds have spoken and attended this Institute, which has become a fixture in tax continuing education.
The Institute is led by many esteemed practitioners who have devoted significant time, treasure, and talent. Those Board Members reflect a broad cross-section of practitioners—both in tax practice type and geographic location. Current Chair, Michael Burns, serves a Board of 19, all of whom meet monthly for planning to maintain the excellence of this great Institute.
In February of 2024, the University of Florida’s graduate tax program celebrated 50 years. Continuing in its collaboration, the Florida Tax Institute showcased the graduate tax program it supports through a 50th Anniversary Celebration Dinner. The rich history of the Florida Tax Institute motivates the Institute’s leadership to forge ahead with its mission of offering a best-in-class tax institute organized by tax practitioners for tax practitioners.
In April 2026, the Florida Tax Institute was renamed the Calfee Tax Institute in honor of long-time professor Dennis Calfee, whose dedication to tax education has inspired generations of students and professionals. Through this new name, the Board of Directors proudly recognizes Professor Calfee’s lasting contributions and is committed to carrying forward his passion for excellence in tax education.
The Calfee Tax Institute is sponsored by the Florida Tax Education Foundation, Inc.
