The University of Central Florida's relationship with Leonardo Nierman began in 1987, with the acquisition of the stained glass window "Genesis" and the nine and one-half foot tall bronze sculpture "Flame of Hope." The "Flame of Hope" was one of the University's acquisitions under the Florida Art in State Buildings Program. After a national search, the thirty member Art Selection Board of the Library chose Mr. Nierman's sculpture as the best of entries. The window and the sculpture were dedicated on September 9, 1987. In 1996 Nierman visited the University for the grand opening of the Contemporary Mexican Art Exhibition, which featured his artwork. Nierman visited again in June of 2000, when he donated his tapestries.

The UCF Library's collection of Nierman paintings has been made possible by the generous donations of several art patrons, including the artist himself. Other donors include Mr. Lloyd Letourneau, Mr. Joseph Micka, Mr. And Mrs. Stanley Young, Mr. And Mrs. Roy Steckmesser, Mr. And Mrs. Paul Yelin, and an anonymous donor.