Fall 2025 A&M Magazine: Full STEAM Ahead

PRESIDENT

MARVA JOHNSON FULL STEAM AHEAD

PRESIDENT

VICE

Alonda

Dennis

Tisha

Kimberly

Kanya

A MESSAGE FROM THE

PRESIDENT

Welcome to the STEAM issue of A&M Magazine! It is an honor and a privilege to serve as the 13th president of Florida A&M University. During my first 100 days, I have had the pleasure of meeting with numerous faculty, staff, students and community partners. It is clear that FAMU is a cherished center of academic excellence and research innovation. Our challenges are manageable, and our potential is limitless.

I am pleased to report that FAMU has once again earned the No. 1 ranking among public HBCUs on the 2026 U.S. News & World Report list, and we remain a Top 100 national university. Thanks to continued progress in our graduation and retention rates, FAMU plays a critical role in helping Florida maintain its position as the No. 1 state for higher education.

As we look toward the future of this esteemed institution, FAMU is well positioned to prepare students for the careers of tomorrow—careers that demand a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering, architecture and mathematics. In the article, “Shaping Futures: How FAMU’s Strategic Programs Prepare Students for High-Impact Careers,” we highlight 45 programs identified by the Florida Board of Governors as essential to meeting society’s most pressing workforce needs.

Next year, we will celebrate the 90th anniversary of the School of Nursing and its enduring commitment to equipping future nurses with the tools to deliver compassionate care. In “Nursing a Legacy of Care,” we explore the high-tech ways students are learning their craft in FAMU’s STRIKE Healthcare Center. We remain steadfast in our mission to prepare students for careers in nursing, medicine, pharmacy, public health and allied health fields. The healthcare workforce of tomorrow must reflect the diversity of the communities it serves, and FAMU will continue to play a vital role in producing professionals who reduce health disparities and deliver culturally competent care.

FAMU’s Eternal World Tour Homecoming Week was jam-packed with excitement as we welcomed back alumni and friends. The occasion reminded us that returning to the Highest of Seven Hills offers a meaningful opportunity to recharge, reflect and reunite with the next generation of global leaders. We were proud to honor several distinguished alumni: Former President Frederick S. Humphries, Ph.D., was recognized with the unveiling of a bronze statue in his honor, and Bernard and Shirley Pooler Kinsey, L.H.D., were celebrated through the renaming of the band hall, home to the renowned FAMU Marching 100.

As we continue to build on our legacy of excellence, I invite you to join us in shaping the future of Florida A&M University. Together, we will rise to meet every challenge and seize every opportunity.

With Rattler pride,

Marva B. Johnson

Marva B. Johnson, J.D. President, Florida A&M University

A New Era of GROWTH

FAMU UNVEILS VENOM LANDING AND EXPANDS CAMPUS ENHANCEMENTS

By Ashley Flete

Florida A&M University entered a bold new chapter in campus living with the opening of Venom Landing, a 700-bed residence hall that stands as the university’s most ambitious housing project to date. Opened in August, the facility features 350 double-occupancy rooms designed to elevate student life and strengthen recruitment and retention.

At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, President Marva B. Johnson, J.D., described Venom Landing as “a pivotal moment in the university’s history,” emphasizing its role in creating inclusive, modern spaces where students can thrive academically and socially.

Venom Landing is one highlight in a wave of renovations and beautification projects reshaping FAMU’s campus. These initiatives are guided by five goals: enhancing the student experience, preserving historic facilities, expanding research capacity, promoting sustainability and strengthening campus pride.

Current projects include the Hub Dining expansion, which will add space for students and staff on South Campus, and the Howard Hall renovation, which will modernize ROTC facilities with ADA accessibility, upgraded plumbing and improved HVAC systems. The Chemical and Biological Research Center buildout will expand research laboratories, while utility upgrades like the New South Chiller Plant and campus-wide HVAC improvements will increase efficiency and improve classroom environments.

Recently completed efforts include roof replacements at the Grand Ballroom and Foote-Hilyer Administration Center, ensuring the preservation of landmark spaces.

Looking ahead, FAMU is preparing to launch the Allied Health Sciences Student Community Health Center, a $1.7 million project transforming the former FAMU Credit Union building into a hub for training and healthcare services.

The Amphitheater Outdoor Restrooms Project will also enhance one of the university’s most beloved gathering spaces.

“These projects are about more than bricks and mortar,” said Kendall Jones, associate vice president for facilities, planning, construction and safety.

“They are investments in student success, innovation and community engagement.”

From residence halls to laboratories, each improvement reflects FAMU’s commitment to building a vibrant, sustainable and inclusive environment—ensuring every Rattler has the resources and spaces to succeed.

Shaping Futures

How FAMU’s Strategic Programs Prepare Students for High-Impact Careers

By Deidre P. Williams

On a bright afternoon in the new Trimble Technology Lab at the FAMU School of Architecture and Engineering Technology, Anaya Britt adjusts her headset and studies a 3D model of the U.S. State Capitol projected before her. Just last summer, she interned with HOK, a global design, architecture and engineering firm in Tampa, where she applied the same skills to help redesign higher education, science and technology, and hospital facilities using advanced modeling software. Now, as a graduate student majoring in architecture, Britt is eager to start a career in theatrical set design and interior design. She believes digital innovation will be the key to shaping the future of both industries.

“I never imagined architecture would take me into virtual reality labs and digital fabrication studios,” she says with a grin. “But the architecture program has shown me how what we learn at FAMU translates directly into building real environments and solving real challenges.”

Britt is part of a growing group of students benefiting from Florida’s Programs of Strategic Emphasis (PSE)—academic programs designed to align education with the state’s economic and workforce priorities.

“Florida is experiencing rapid growth in construction and design industries, and firms are looking for graduates who can step in with advanced technical skills from day one,” says Mohamed Ahmed, an

associate professor in the FAMU School of Architecture and Engineering Technology. “Our curriculum and facilities give FAMU students that edge—equipping them with the digital tools and innovative problemsolving approaches that are in highest demand across the state and beyond.”

Behind the List: How Florida Shapes Its Strategic Programs

Architecture is only one of 45 programs on FAMU’s current PSE list, which also includes disciplines such as accounting, cybersecurity, education, engineering, nursing, physics, and supply chain management.

The Florida Board of Governors, the governing body for the 12 public universities in the state university system of Florida, updates and approves the PSE list every three years to ensure each institution stays closely aligned with the state’s most pressing workforce needs.

Thus, the PSE list is not randomly compiled—it is the result of a statewide collaboration designed to match education with opportunity.

To build the list, FLBOG staff developed a methodology that incorporates input from a wide range of stakeholders, including the Governor’s REACH Office, the Florida Legislature, the Florida Department of Education, the Florida Department of Commerce, the Florida Chamber of Commerce, the

Florida Council of 100, CareerSource Florida and experts from the State University System.

The process takes a hard look at both sides of the equation: the supply of graduates across Florida’s education sectors and the projected labor market demand for those graduates. By also factoring in wage information across occupations, the state ensures that the PSE list highlights fields where students can find not just jobs, but sustainable, high-impact careers.

“We are equipping students with the knowledge, experiences and credentials that translate immediately into workforce readiness.”

— Allyson L. Watson, Ph.D FAMU Provost

Broadening the Impact of PSE Programs

According to a Florida Chamber of Commerce study, workforce needs are highest in four career fields expected to shape the state’s economy and quality of life for residents in the years ahead— healthcare, IT and mathematics, business and finance, and architecture/engineering. A keen focus on these fields is needed if Florida intends to reach its goal of becoming a top 10 global economy by 2030.

Thus, these career fields currently drive much of the focus behind FAMU’s growing list of PSE degree offerings for both on-campus and online students, with more than 50% of all degrees awarded in PSEdesignated disciplines. Recently, the Florida Board of Governors reviewed and aligned new PSEs to workforce and career demands in Florida that will impact FAMU data points. The university is committed to moving forward by advancing these programs and supporting student success.

This fall, the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering launched the Aerospace Engineering Ph.D. program, a PSE aimed at growing the state’s aerospace sector by advancing technologies in aircraft and spacecraft for transportation, communication, exploration, and defense.

FAMU Online Dean Kelley Bolden Bailey says six new online PSE offerings are on the horizon, including advanced degrees in healthcare informatics, ed tech, and systems engineering.

A Pipeline to Florida’s Workforce

FAMU Provost Allyson L. Watson, Ph.D., describes PSE as more than academic pathways—they are intentional pipelines designed to connect students to Florida’s workforce needs and innovation economy.

“Through the Programs of Strategic Emphasis, we are equipping students with the knowledge, experiences and credentials that translate

immediately into workforce readiness,” said Watson. “These programs are not just about degrees—they are about creating pipelines that fuel Florida’s innovation economy, meet industry demand and prepare our graduates to lead with excellence.”

The alignment between FAMU’s academic programs and Florida’s workforce needs has another powerful outcome: it enhances the University’s performance-based funding and national reputation. With each graduate who enters a high-demand industry, FAMU strengthens its standing as a premier producer of talent and research in areas that matter most.

For students, the list is equally valuable—helping them choose majors that not only match their interests but also offer strong career prospects and a positive return on investment for the time and money spent earning their degrees.

Director of Programs of Strategic Emphasis, Augustus Mitchell, shares this message while traveling to meet future Rattlers on this year’s university Student Recruitment Tour, Destination FAMU!

“I tell potential students that FAMU graduates are ready to excel professionally, but more importantly, our strategic programs provide them with lifelong career skills in healthcare, STEAM and public impact needed to make a difference and create opportunities that lift others along the way.”

Alumni: PSE Beyond Graduation

The story of PSE at FAMU is not only about students on campus today—it’s also about alumni who are advancing industries, mentoring the next generation, and ensuring Florida’s economy thrives.

FAMU invites alumni to stay engaged with PSE programs by:

• Serving as guest speakers or mentors to current students

• Hosting internships and career shadowing opportunities

• Supporting scholarships and endowed funds in high-demand disciplines

• Sharing their own career stories to inspire the next generation of Rattlers

To view a complete listing of PSE degrees offered at FAMU, visit flbog. edu.

FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Receives $7.5M NSF Grant for Sustainable Materials Research

Researchers at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering are developing advanced polymers for next-generation materials that can be manufactured into new structures and devices.

By Trisha Radulovich

Aresearch team from the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering has secured a $7.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation through Florida A&M University. The funding supports the Center of Research Excellence in Science and Technology (CREST) Phase II program, expanding on the successful Phase I CREST Center. The center focuses on developing novel materials, characterizing their properties and manufacturing them into useful structures and devices.

Professor Subramanian Ramakrishnan from the joint college’s Department of Chemical

and Biomedical Engineering leads this project. The research team includes Professors Daniel Hallinan, Rufina Alamo, Jamel Ali, Tarik Dickens, Jullian Pope, Komalavalli Thirunavukkurasu, Simon Foo, Raghav Gnanasambandam, Jillian Pope and Moses Anubi, among other faculty experts.

Supporting FAMU’s R1 Research University Goals

The CREST Phase II program integrates research with education, directly supporting FAMU’s goal of achieving R1 status as a research institution.

“I’m absolutely delighted to hear about Professor Ramakrishnan and his team winning this outstanding award,” said Suvranu De, the dean of the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering.

“It’s a tremendous achievement and a massive win for FAMU and its growing national reputation for research excellence. This reinforces the university’s momentum toward R1 status.”

Educational and Training Components

Students in the CREST program will conduct research, collaborate with national

Assistant Professor Jamel Ali and Professor Subramanian Ramakrishnan (Photo by Scott Holstein)

laboratories and complete specialized coursework. Ramakrishnan emphasizes, “Our students will receive an exceptional, collaborative education that will empower them to work alongside some of the world’s leading scientists.”

The program aims to produce over 30 Ph.D. graduates from diverse backgrounds while engaging 50 undergraduates and reaching additional students through collaborative research. The initiative seeks to strengthen FAMU’s research capabilities and educational infrastructure, attract new faculty and expand funding opportunities.

Research Focus Areas

The CREST Phase II program will advance the development of sustainable materials and manufacturing techniques.

“We are excited to explore bioderived sustainable thermoplastics, flexible hybrid recyclable electronics and responsive sensors and actuators,” Ramakrishnan enthusiastically shared. “This initiative is pivotal for enhancing our research capabilities while preparing the next generation of engineers to tackle pressing national challenges.”

Research will focus on the self-assembly of complex building blocks, including polymers and proteins, to create hierarchical structures for various applications. The team will incorporate advanced discovery methods and machine learning techniques to improve custom materials design.

“These structures can help us easily adjust their properties, making it possible to create flexible printing methods for making devices,” Ramakrishnan explained. Researchers are

developing polymer-based devices that can change their properties, including eco-friendly, recyclable polymers and smart materials that respond to different conditions.

Interdisciplinary Research Team

The team includes experts from chemical, biomedical, electrical, industrial and manufacturing engineering, physics and biological sciences, working to create solutions that advance current capabilities.

Professor Rufina Alamo, who specializes in crystalline polymers, collaborates with Professors Ramakrishnan and Hallinan to develop bioderived recyclable polymers that could transform packaging practices. Hallinan will focus on polymer synthesis and energy storage. Professor Tarik Dickens applies AI and machine learning techniques to optimize the additive manufacturing of polymer electronic devices. Associate Professor Jamel Ali explores bioprinting of biohybrid soft materials and micro-robotics.

Industry and National Laboratory Partnerships

The CREST team collaborates with industry leaders and national laboratories, including ExxonMobil, DOW, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and others. The team works closely with nScrypt, a 3D printer manufacturer focused on defense and NASA applications, using their technology to manufacture devices and structures.

Faculty collaborate with scientists at Sandia, Brookhaven and Oak Ridge National Laboratories to develop advanced characterization and manufacturing

techniques. At the University of Delaware, they partner with Professor Thomas Epps, a recognized expert in polymers and composites who specializes in functional materials such as battery and fuel cell membranes and organic photovoltaics.

“The collaboration with Professor Epps is a key component of our research center’s efforts,” Ramakrishnan said. “These partnerships play a crucial role in the research we are able to do.”

Expected Outcomes and Applications

The CREST Phase II initiative aims to advance understanding of eco-friendly thermoplastics. Research findings will improve understanding of how materials’ structure, processing and function work together, making them applicable in various industrial processes. This framework will address research questions relevant to the Department of Defense, Department of Energy and National Institutes of Health while fostering industrial and academic collaborations to establish a sustainable research program at FAMU.

The program will train a new generation of engineering graduates with expertise to meet future workforce needs. Ramakrishnan added, “This award reflects the National Science Foundation’s commitment to funding highquality research that showcases both intellectual merit and broader impacts—and benefits society.”

FAMU UNVEILS BRONZE STATUE OF FORMER PRESIDENT

Frederick S. Humphries

By Ashley Flete and Tatyanna McCray

Beneath a clear October sky, the heart of Florida A&M University pulsed with admiration and anticipation.

The sound of the Marching “100” filled the air as generations of Rattlers, faculty, staff, students and families stood shoulder to shoulder in front of Lee Hall, honoring the towering legacy of President Emeritus Frederick S. Humphries.

The crowd offered heartfelt thanks to Humphries’ children — Frederick Humphries Jr., Robin (Humphries) Watson, and Laurence Humphries — saying, “Thank you for sharing both of your parents with us,” as the three sat front and center, preparing to witness the trailblazing tribute to their father.

The newly erected 600-pound full-body statue of the late president Humphries was unveiled and stands in front of the Eternal Flame. The work features detailed inscriptions of four words — “roots,” “principle,” “practice” and “promise” — that reflect his life and contributions to FAMU.

Frederick S. Humphries, Ph.D., was born in Apalachicola, Florida. He graduated from FAMU in 1957 with a bachelor’s degree in

chemistry and earned a doctorate in physical chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh in 1964. By the 1970s, Humphries had already made his mark on historically Black colleges and universities, helping to set new academic standards as director of the HBCU 13-College Curriculum Program.

Humphries served as FAMU’s eighth president from 1985 to 2001, perfecting the “Rattler Charge” and championing philanthropy, student advocacy and the creation of the Eternal Flame monument — a symbol of FAMU’s 1997–98 recognition as Time magazine’s “College of the Year.”

“People will describe the Humphries era as legendary. He is

“This statue, standing tall in the heart of our campus serves as both a tribute and a charge.”

–FAMU President Marva B. Johnson, J.D.

one of the longest-serving and most impactful presidents,” said Brandi V. Tatum-Fedrick, Ph.D., acting vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the FAMU Foundation Inc.

During the unveiling, FAMU President Marva B. Johnson, J.D., announced the relaunch of the Life Gets Better Scholarship Program — a signature of Humphries’ legacy. “This statue, standing tall in the heart of our campus serves as both a tribute and a charge,” Johnson said. “It reminds us that the work continues — that each of us carries his vision to lead, to serve and

to make sure every student who walks this campus truly gets better, and that everybody knows you can get anywhere from here.”

During his administration, Humphries raised more than $157 million in scholarships, helping more than 800 students. Enrollment grew to over 12,000 by the early 2000s, and grants increased to nearly $62 million. He also coined the now-popular, nationally recognized motto, “Excellence With Caring.”

“Those who pause before your statue won’t just be reminded of you — they’ll be reminded of their own light, their own capacity to shine brightly in any darkness, which was always your magic,” wrote Watson, in a heartfelt letter to her father that she shared during the unveiling.

“Dr. Humphries believed we need representation, reminders of greatness and ways to solidify moments in time. That’s what this statue is about,” said Laurence A. Humphries, honoring his father from the podium.

Though no longer physically present, Humphries’ courageous and pioneering spirit lives on. His achievements and the lasting enhancements he inspired are etched into FAMU’s history. Now, a physical monument allows students, faculty and visitors to witness the story of a man with a plan and a revolutionary vision.

The children of President Humphries: Frederick Jr., Robin and Laurence, pose in front of the newly erected bronze statue on campus.

THE KINSEY LEGACY MARCHES ON

FAMU Honors Alumni Who Gave History Its Voice

By Rachel James-Terry

Florida A&M University officially named its band rehearsal hall in honor of two of its most distinguished alumni—Bernard W. Kinsey, L.H.D., and Shirley Pooler Kinsey, L.H.D.—during a ceremony on October 16, 2025.

The newly dedicated Drs. Bernard W. and Shirley Pooler Kinsey Band Hall, Home of the Marching “100,” stands as a tribute to the couple’s lifelong commitment to education, philanthropy and the preservation of African American history and culture.

volumes about your dedication and passion for music and the Marching ‘100.’” He and his wife, Pam Walker, pledged $100,000 from the Walker Trust to further the Kinseys’ vision for the band hall.

“It’s truly an honor to know that our names will be on this building…I can see our ancestors smiling right now and reminding us that yes, we are the answer to their prayers.”

–Shirley Pooler Kinsey, L.H.D.

The Kinsey family entered the hall to the sounds of the Marching “100” playing the “FAMU Spirit.” Dean Valencia Matthews, Ph.D., who served as mistress of ceremonies, opened with remarks capturing the spirit of the occasion. “Today we gather to honor two of the most illustrious members of our FAMUly, Shirley and Bernard Kinsey…stewards of our culture, champions of education and ambassadors of excellence,” she said.

For more than five decades, the Kinseys have uplifted communities through education, art and philanthropy. Their Kinsey African American Art & History Collection—one of the most comprehensive in the world— has reached more than 16 million people across three continents.

Among the guests was Matthew Knowles, record executive and father of Beyoncé, who first met Bernard Kinsey at Xerox more than 50 years ago. “You have influenced and inspired many of us. Your efforts have fostered a sense of connection and support within our community,” he said. “The influence of one vital person can send forth waves of inspiration and change that resonate far beyond their lifetime.”

Earlier this year, FAMU awarded honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees to Shirley Kinsey and their son, Khalil, following in the footsteps of Bernard Kinsey, who received the same distinction in 1987 from President Frederick S. Humphries, Ph.D.

Longtime friend Nicholas E. Walker Jr., who played alto saxophone while Kinsey played French horn, added, “Congratulations on this incredible honor. Having a band hall named after you and Shirley speaks

FAMU President Marva B. Johnson, J.D., reflected on the couple’s generosity: “This is the place where our band students have learned not only notes but life lessons…You represent the success we imagine for every one of our students… the generosity that we hope all of our alumni feel to pay it forward.”

Their son, Khalil Kinsey, COO of the Kinsey Foundation, shared, “They gave their names meaning…because of the power of the example of what they’ve done. That’s what we all need in life—something to look at to help inform our steps.”

Shirley Kinsey added, “It’s truly an honor to know that our names will be on this building…I can see our ancestors smiling right now and reminding us that yes, we are the answer to their prayers.”

In his closing remarks, Bernard Kinsey urged students to embrace gratitude and perseverance. “You have to be in a position that you can do what you have to do under all circumstances,” he said. “The idea of having options in your life…is how am I going to continue, where am I going in the future—and that’s what informs you.”

He reminded the audience of his guiding prayer: “God grant me a gift to give it to someone else that needs it more than me.”

Together, the Kinseys have raised more than $40 million for humanitarian causes and helped hundreds of Los Angeles students attend FAMU.

“Leave the door open and the ladder down,” Bernard Kinsey concluded. “If we are up here striving for each other, we can make this thing work…They cannot wipe us off the face of the earth…We did it through slavery. We did it through Jim Crow. We did it through segregation. We did it through voter suppression—and we’ll do it through this.”

PRESIDENT JOHNSON Sets Focus on a Bold Future of Excellence

By Alonda Thomas, Ph.D.

When Marva B. Johnson, J.D. stepped into the role of president of Florida A&M University on August 1, 2025, she knew her first responsibility was simple yet profound: to listen. During her first 100 days, she engaged with more than 4,000 students, faculty, staff, community partners, business leaders and university peers through roundtable discussions, listening sessions, meetings and a universitywide survey.

“In all of these engagements, I prioritized listening to every person I encountered to understand their concerns, priorities, challenges and dreams,” Johnson shared.

That commitment to dialogue set the tone for a presidency focused on transparency, collaboration, and bold action. Johnson wasted no time turning insights into productivity. Within her first few days, she met with more than 50 faculty and staff members across multiple disciplines.

“FAMU’s faculty and staff are the champions of ‘Excellence with Caring!’” Johnson said. “I appreciate their candor, transparency and insights during these conversations.”

One of her earliest decisions was a tangible gesture of appreciation: a one-time four percent financial incentive for eligible university faculty and staff and allocating $1.5 million for grant opportunities. To engage and retain top talent, she is developing modern compensation structures, enhancing training pipelines and streamlining leadership pathways. Longer-term solutions to sustainable compensation models will involve legislative partnerships and diversified funding sources.

“This is just the first step in a compensation strategy to address our faculty’s salary concerns and ensure we can attract and retain worldclass talent,” Johnson noted. “Our goal is to ensure our people grow as the university grows.”

Restoring Financial Confidence and Championing Student Success

As Johnson assumed leadership, FAMU faced significant financial scrutiny. Six audit findings awaited her arrival. Her top priority? Clearing up the financial outlook.

“There was minimal confidence in the University’s financial health, which subsequently had a negative impact on fundraising efforts,” she said. “We immediately began the process of making necessary changes to stabilize the enterprise.”

Today, most of the audit findings have been resolved, and corrective measures are well underway. She is actively recruiting a new Chief Financial Officer and currently working with external partners to clean up the financial records and implement sustainable business processes.

The goal is clear: “We are positioning ourselves for financial stability, planning with confidence for future growth, and making FAMU big donorready,” said Johnson.

“We are positioning ourselves for financial stability, planning with confidence for future growth, and making FAMU big donor-ready.”

Johnson’s administration is focused on student success. Her vision includes modernizing academic advising, expanding paid internships, and supporting students holistically, including academically, financially and emotionally. She is prioritizing key retention tools like scholarships and counseling to ensure that students are supported long term. Additionally, her adminisration has taken a renewed commitment to FAMU’s 2 + 2 articulation agreements to help graduates from state colleges transfer to FAMU seamlessly to further their education.

“Our students are the number one priority—not just for me, but for every administrator, faculty and staff member on this campus,” said Johnson. “A college degree must be a ticket to real opportunity. Today’s graduates need more than a diploma—they need digital fluency, adaptability, and strong professional networks when they cross that stage. We are aggressively aligning our academic programs with workforce demands to set our students up for success.”

To ensure FAMU continues its mission of social mobility, President Johnson has launched an enrollment growth task force and partnered with the HBCU Change initiative to raise funding to reboot the Life Gets Better Scholarship.

“We honor Dr. Federick S. Humphries—a scholar, a servant leader and one of the most transformative presidents in FAMU’s history. I am proud to announce that we have relaunched the Life Gets Better Scholarship Program, a signature part of Dr. Humphries’ legacy,” said Johnson. “Every dollar raised will help us invest directly in the next generation of scholars—those who will continue to make the world better through their brilliance, their service and their FAMU pride. It’s our way of ensuring that Dr. Humphries’ vision doesn’t just live in the past, it thrives in the future.”

Looking ahead, Johnson plans to double down on recruiting top high school and state college scholars, creating pathways for student access and unifying the university by integrating all campuses through a series of events.

Driving Research and Innovation

Johnson’s ambitions for FAMU extend beyond student success to research excellence and innovation.

“In the next few years, FAMU will become a Carnegie R-1 research institution and we will get there by focusing on increasing the number of Ph.D. graduates, enhancing our facilities, and expanding our capacity to do more research,” said Johnson.

Health sciences are another top priority, with partnerships forming

“The playbook has shifted dramatically, and we are adapting FAMU to the changing landscape through strategic execution, collaboration, and bold leadership.”

between FAMU, local hospitals and medical centers. In August, President Johnson launched FAMU’s first Health Science Enterprise and Research Innovation Division, as well as new centers for Pharmaceutical Engineering, Quantum Sciences, and Financial Excellence and Real Estate Management, which will support top workforce demands. Additionally, FAMU now holds a seat on the governing board overseeing the partnership between Florida State University and Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare—a strategic move to protect programs and support the community.

“We remain steadfast in our mission to prepare students for careers in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, public health and allied health fields. The healthcare workforce of tomorrow must reflect the diversity of the communities it serves, and FAMU will continue to play a vital role in producing professionals who can reduce health disparities and deliver culturally competent care,” says Johnson.

Future plans include strengthening interdisciplinary research across engineering, agriculture, and environmental sciences and investing in the College of Law to create signature programs and form local partnerships. Johnson also plans to launch the President’s Fitness Challenge, a campus-wide wellness initiative for students, faculty and staff.

A Vision for the Future

As Johnson charts her path forward, she is committed to leveraging the institutional knowledge of her predecessors combined with a vision to help the university reach higher heights in research and innovation that will propel FAMU scholars toward satisfying careers. With pillars of student achievement, faculty excellence, research innovation, and financial stability firmly in place, Johnson is optimistic.

“We are living in a historic moment in higher education,” said Johnson. “The playbook has shifted dramatically, and we are adapting FAMU to the changing landscape through strategic execution, collaboration and bold leadership.”

Love, Athletics and FAMU

THE AUSTINS EMBRACE THE POWER OF PLANNED GIVING

By Kevin Tyler

For alumna Tomia Austin, DrPH, attending FAMU was nonnegotiable. Having been surrounded by Rattler legacies throughout her childhood and coming from one herself, FAMU was always going to be a part of her story.

“It was the only school I applied to,” Tomia recalls. “And even though I knew I was going to attend FAMU, the culture shock I experienced was real.”

Having grown up in the church and attending a small high school (her graduating class totaled four people), many aspects of her FAMU experience were unfamiliar to her. “I remember meeting my roommate, Josette, on the first day of school and realizing almost immediately that she was different from anything I’d ever known.” Tomia’s voice lilts with nostalgia when remembering her time in Wheatley Hall, room 227, “Jo was, and still is, just real. I was never popular on campus, but she always made room for me, and I will never forget that.”

Her husband, Doug, whom she met at FAMU, would find his way to being a Rattler via athletics. FAMU showed an early interest in him as a high school football player, and he returned the favor. Doug reminisces about his time at FAMU just as fondly. But there’s one memory that stands above all the others: and that was learning how to survive in Professor [Thyria] Ansley’s course.

“You do not want to get Dr. Ansley looking at you over her glasses,” he recalls. After working hard to prove himself, Ansley became one of Doug’s favorite professors. “I appreciated that she was there to pour into us, but she also did not play.”

After graduation and an eight-year stint in New York, the pair married and moved to Atlanta, where they became deeply involved in alumni activities. It was during their first National Alumni Association Conference that the Austins learned about giving. “I don’t think I ever knew how a college made money,” Tomia says. “But as I listened to the presentation, I realized, ‘If we don’t help take care of FAMU, no one else is either’ — and that made it personal.”

For as long as Doug and Tomia can remember, they have always been a fan of athletics — especially FAMU Athletics. Doug’s allegiance solidified on the football field; Tomia’s while working in the FAMU Athletics Department while a graduate student. “I’ve never missed a single homecoming since freshman year,” she exclaims, adding how she once had to listen to the game during her cousin’s wedding, but still made it back to campus for part of the celebration. “Working in athletics gave me a genuine appreciation for all that goes into running a successful program, and is much of the reason Doug and I focus our giving there.”

As the Austins became more active in the Metro Atlanta Alumni Chapter, they learned about the various ways to give back to the university. “We’ve never been wealthy, but our personal motto is ‘Do What We Can,” says Tomia. Planned giving was introduced to the couple while listening to a mother and her son present on the topic during a homecoming convocation. “After that, it was a no-brainer. I firmly believe in paying FAMU like a bill. Small increments are manageable and just as rewarding when I look back at the year to see what I’ve been able to give to an institution that has given so much to us.”

For Doug, giving back to FAMU is as much about football as it is about the future. “Of course, I want to see the program grow,” he says. “We don’t just say we love FAMU, we live it. We advocate for it. Presidents, coaches and professors come and go, but our love for FAMU will never waiver.”

While it’s difficult to know what FAMU might look like in the future, the Austins know this: “We, the alumni, the lovers of FAMU, the Aunties and the Uncs, the old-heads and the Baby Rattlers, have no choice but to give to FAMU. ‘Pay FAMU like a bill’ because the future of the university rests squarely on all of our shoulders.”

Year of the RATTLER WOMAN

Shaping the Future of FAMU

By Rachel James-Terry

2025 Marks A Historic Era of Women

Florida A&M University has long been a proving ground for trailblazers, but 2024–2025 has emerged as the “Year of the Rattler Woman.” As President Marva B. Johnson, J.D. takes the helm, women are leading boldly across every corner of the university, redefining what it means to lead with excellence.

Kristin Harper: Governing With Integrity and Vision

When Kristin Harper became chair of the FAMU Board of Trustees, she brought courage, conviction and deep Rattler pride. The Columbus, Ohio, native and SBI graduate earned her bachelor’s and MBA simultaneously and was the third woman in FAMU history to serve as SGA president.

During six years on the Board—two as chair—Harper helped guide the Boldly Striking Strategic Plan, leading to FAMU’s Top 100 national ranking and pursuit of R1 research status. Her tenure saw record fundraising, research expenditures, student profiles and graduation rates.

Harper said she wants her leadership defined as “one of high integrity and moral character; being agile yet unwavering in my values.” She added, “Titles are temporary. Character lasts forever.”

“What makes it all worth it,” she said, “is sitting on that stage and seeing the joy of students achieving their dreams. Knowing, in some small way, that the contributions I’ve made—and those of my colleagues— helped make that possible.”

She leaves future leaders three lessons: “Always remember who you serve and never neglect the reason FAMU exists. Weigh short- and longterm trade-offs. Be really clear about your why.”

“Leadership is complex,” she said. “But as long as we keep students at the center, FAMU will continue to thrive for generations.”

Artisha R. Polk: Energizing Alumni Engagement

As the 20th president of the FAMU National Alumni Association (NAA)— and only the third woman to hold the role since 1901—Artisha R. Polk brings decades of volunteer service and a generational love for the University.

“Our seasoned alumni have the experience, while our young alumni bring fresh ideas and tools,” Polk said. “Together, they can energize our association and help ensure FAMU’s legacy lives on in perpetuity.”

Her presidency focuses on bridging generational divides, modernizing the organization and raising transformational capital.

A Rattler woman, she said, is “confident, loving, steadfast and enduring… prepared for her career and able to stand strong in her purpose.”

Polk’s leadership ensures the alumni network remains both a proud supporter of FAMU and a driver of innovation and growth.

Audrey Alexander: Protecting the Hill

When Audrey Alexander was appointed chief of police in 2024, it capped a 30-year career with FAMU’s Department of Campus Safety and Security. Alexxander, a three-time FAMU graduate and retired U.S. Army Reserve and Florida National Guard major, brings discipline and calm authority to the role.

“I am deeply invested in the safety and well-being of our campus community,” she said. “My team and I work tirelessly to ensure that FAMU

remains a welcoming and inclusive environment, where students can excel without unnecessary and preventable distractions.”

Her 24 years of military service—including a tour in Iraq—inform a leadership style that is mission-driven and people-focused. “Campus policing is not just enforcing rules; it’s about cultivating trust, building relationships, and creating a secure campus culture,” Alexander said. Whether managing crises or walking the campus, she remains a steady presence protecting the people who call FAMU home.

Zayla Bryant: Leading With Impact

For SGA President Zayla Bryant, a senior business major from Lithonia, Georgia, leadership is rooted in service. As the first woman to serve alongside a female vice president, she works to amplify student voices and achieve tangible results.

I think I can speak for me and Kennedy (Williams) when I say that we didn’t do this to make history, but we did it to make an impact,” Bryant said. “I don’t think us being two women on the ticket changes the fact that the role is just as important and we would still be serving the same if we were not history makers.”

A first-generation Rattler, Bryant defines a Rattler woman as resilient and audacious. “Rejection is just redirection,” she said. “Young women often walk into spaces not knowing their power. I constantly felt like that until someone gave me the room to bloom.”

Kennedy Williams: Uplifting Student Voices

Serving alongside Bryant is Vice President Kennedy Williams, a history–pre-law major from West Palm Beach who comes from a long line of Rattlers. “I think it’s important that when we’re faced with issues, we address them head-on and communicate with our administration,” she said. “We all pay tuition to be here, and no student should ever feel as if their concerns are left unheard or unanswered.”

Williams is candid about the realities of leadership. “As women, we’re seen as overly emotional in certain instances,” she said. “But we should always stay true to who we are as women, as Black women, and as student leaders.”

Rooted in legacy and mentorship, she added, “I would not be here today without the other trailblazing FAMU women who have laid the groundwork for us to come this far.”

Nursing a LEGACY of Care P

By Kimberly Mask

icture a bright white corridor with counters and workstations on either side. Windows line the upper half of both sides of the hallway. Through one of the windows is a hospital bed, where a team of nurses tend to a patient, dutifully checking her vital signs and discussing her condition. The scene feels like you are witnessing a group of interns at a teaching hospital.

This specialized teaching area is, in reality, the simulation lab in the School of Nursing at Florida A&M University, and the patient is merely a plastic model. The state-of-the-art simulation lab at the STRIKE Healthcare Center features high-fidelity simulators, virtual reality simulators and task trainers. Nursing students execute their training, hands-on, in a safe and controlled environment. Instructors watch their students apply the skills they have learned and then provide constructive feedback. This innovative and brilliant lab is only one of the myriad advantages of being a student at FAMU’s School of Nursing.

Since its inception, the nursing school has been at the forefront of achievement, community healthcare and cultural significance. The program has attracted a wide variety of experienced and renowned faculty who are deeply committed to producing a high-achieving

Shannon B. Smith, APRN, CNE, Ph.D. Dean of the School of Nursing

healthcare workforce. “At FAMU, our goal is to prepare students not just to know nursing, but to be nurses,” said Shannon B. Smith, Ph.D., dean of the School of Nursing. “While nursing theory provides the essential foundation, it’s through simulation and hands-on internships that our students develop the critical thinking and clinical judgment skills needed to thrive in real-world healthcare environments.”

The school’s mission is to equip future nurses with the tools they need to deliver high-quality, compassionate care to a diversified range of populations from all walks of life. These care standards have had a significant and lasting impact on the community at large, regionally, statewide and in Georgia.

“We’re proud to have established a wide range of clinical partnerships throughout the Tallahassee area,” said Smith. “These collaborations allow our students to engage in clinical rotations, ensuring they receive a robust, immersive experience that prepares them for the diverse realities of healthcare practice.”

FAMU partners with HCA Healthcare, Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare and local federally qualified health centers. Members from these healthcare organizations serve on the School of Nursing’s Advisory Council to ensure consistency in professional nursing standards and clinical expectations.

The longstanding commitment to care and career readiness has also led to a banner record of performance and pass rates for the nursing exam. All registered nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). FAMU nurses are passing this exam with flying orange and green colors,

“At FAMU, our goal is to prepare students not just to know nursing, but to be nurses.”

– Shannon B. Smith, APRN, CNE, Ph.D.

most recently at a 93% pass rate, which is above the national benchmark.

Next year, the FAMU School of Nursing will celebrate its 90th anniversary. It is now time to commemorate some of the milestones FAMU’s nursing school has achieved over the years. Rattler nurses are striking hard and striking high — a tradition of excellence that is here to stay.

“While the undergraduate program was established in 1936, what some may not know is that the school opened its doors more than three decades earlier in 1904 as a hospital-based program,” Smith noted.

The school operated as an on-the-job or apprenticeship program for 32 years before being approved as a baccalaureate program in 1936, making it the first of its kind in Florida. Further, in 1936, the FAMU School of Nursing’s BSN program became the first BSN program in Florida and remains the oldest continuing baccalaureate nursing program at an HBCU in the nation.

The nursing school offers pre-nursing, BSN and RN-BSN for undergraduates, and several MSN concentrations for graduate students. Some of the graduate programs, including MSN Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and MSN Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, are also offered in an online learning environment.

We Lead From the Front FAMU’s First Female Head Drum Major Marches Into History

By Rachel James-Terry

Florida A&M University’s storied Marching “100” has long been a symbol of Black excellence in motion. Precision, pride and power on every downbeat. Now, for the first time in its 79-year legacy, the band’s lead drum major is a woman.

Oluwamodupe “Dupe” Oloyede, a senior theater performance student from Atlanta, isn’t just making history— she’s redefining it. The first female head drum major in FAMU’s history, Oloyede is more than a symbol of change. She’s the one writing the score.

“When I first started in band, I saw these women leading, commanding the room,” Oloyede said. “I didn’t know that was rare. But after our performance, they said, ‘Girl, you’re going to be drum major.’ I said, ‘OK.’”

That prophecy came full circle this year when Oloyede was named head drum major—a position that carries visibility, legacy and responsibility, especially at an HBCU where the band is as iconic as the football team it supports.

“It’s a heavy mantle,” she said. “There were women before me who were qualified but never given the opportunity. I do this in their honor.”

A Leader Built for This Moment

The decision to appoint Oloyede was made by Shelby Chipman, Ph.D., director of bands at FAMU since 2016. For Chipman, the choice was clear.

“Dupe has exemplified the type of leadership we want in the Marching 100,” he said. “She’s a model student, a strong musician and her personality is warm and spirited. She’s the kind of ambassador I’d want as my right and left hand.”

According to Chipman, 12 candidates tried out for five drum major positions this year. But only one would be selected to lead them all. “It was one of those decisions I’m so proud of,” he said. “She deserves all the rights and privileges to lead and command this group.”

Chipman emphasized her background in performance and her

leadership history, including her work with the show planning and dance routine committees. “She’s been involved in every aspect of this band’s production,” he said. “And I know at any moment, I can hand her a mic and she’ll speak from her values, her upbringing and our band’s core principles.”

Advocacy in Motion

For Oloyede, this title is more than a badge— it’s a mission. “It means advocacy,” she said. “There usually aren’t women in this role. So, for the girls in the band, it means there’s a place for them—for all of us.”

From Student to Standard-Bearer

Oloyede’s path to the podium wasn’t luck—it was layered in years of leadership. From show planning in high school to becoming a section leader as a freshman, she climbed the ranks with discipline and grit.

“Being in the Hundred, you learn the culture. As a section leader, you learn to work with your peers in the heat, dehydrated, stressed—and you keep going,” she said. “And once you have to teach it? That’s when you really understand it.”

“I know at any moment, I can hand her a mic and she’ll speak from her values, her upbringing, and our band’s core principles.”

–Shelby Chipman, Ph.D. Director of Bands

She is a member of Tau Beta Sigma, the National Honorary Band Sorority and actively pushes for inclusive policies and accommodations— from uniforms to leadership opportunities. “Most uniforms aren’t made for people with hips. We don’t always accommodate full-figured bodies. That has to change.”

But Oloyede isn’t just changing how the band looks—she’s focused on how it leads. “It’s about doing the work and being recognized for it,” she said. “Regardless of age or gender.”

Trust at the Top

The trust between Oloyede and Chipman is mutual. She describes him as “always smiling” and a stabilizing force. He says their relationship is rooted in respect and accountability.

“She knows I demand a lot, but I’m sensitive to students being students,” Chipman said. “We’ve promised to meet weekly with the drum major staff to stay aligned. She understands how important student leadership is to our success.”

And while last year’s Marching 100 made national headlines— performing at Coachella and winning Band of the Year—Chipman is clear: “That’s behind us. This is a new season, a new band, a new legacy.”

She credits her sorority and her roles in Images Modeling Troupe and FAMU Essential Theatre with shaping her leadership style. “I’ve learned to prioritize people over the product. That’s everything.”

The Grind Behind the Glory

For those who still question whether marching band is a sport, Oloyede has a clear answer: “We train harder.”

“You hear us when you come to work. You hear us when you leave. You hear us when you’re sleeping,” she said. “We break everything down to the smallest detail. It’s about stamina, discipline, and mindset.”

She trains like an athlete, inspired by Simone Biles’ philosophy of competing only with yourself. “I just don’t want to be the same way I was yesterday. I have to keep pushing.”

Charting the Soundtrack of the Season

As both head drum major and head of show planning, Oloyede is involved in everything from choreography to music selection. “We pick what’s hot—Beyoncé is definitely in there,” she said. “We want to play what students hear at parties, orientation and concerts. If someone’s on tour, we’re probably playing them.”

She also wants to push for more Afrobeat in the setlist. “I don’t want to be selfish,” she joked. “But I feel it in my soul.”

What’s Next?

After FAMU, Oloyede has her sights set on the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale. “I want to go deeper into theater and open my own arts institution one day,” she said.

But first, she’s focused on the season ahead. “We’re defending Band of the Year. My goal is for this to be an iconic year. Classic after classic. Banger after banger.”

Her vision? A season so strong that people can’t tell which classic they’re watching—just that it’s the Marching 100 turning up the heat.

Head drum major, Oluwamodupe “Dupe” Oloyede poses with the first female band member, Norma Solomon White, L.H.D.

BARRIER BREAKER

FAMU SJGC Alumna Thai Floyd Named First Full-Time Female Football Announcer at an HBCU

By Kanya Stewart

Thai Floyd, a proud alumna of Florida A&M University’s School of Journalism & Graphic Communication (FAMU SJGC), has made double history.

Floyd was named the lead play-by-play voice of Alabama A&M University football and host of “The Coaches Show.” She is the first woman to hold this role at Alabama A&M and the first woman to serve as the full-time voice of a historically Black college or university (HBCU) football team.

“This opportunity means a lot,” said Floyd, who is also set to become a two-time HBCU graduate, earning a degree in broadcast journalism from FAMU in 2019 and currently pursuing a master’s degree at Alabama A&M.

Being the daughter of former Florida State University and NFL fullback William Floyd, Thai Floyd not only possesses an innate drive to excel at the highest level, but her success was also inspired by the legacy of FAMU SJGC sports media giants who came before her.

“I’m honored to represent not only Alabama A&M but also the legacy of excellence I gained at FAMU and through the SJGC program,” Floyd said.

Floyd returned to “The Hill” in spring 2025 to participate in the Minorities in Sports Symposium, where she shared her journey with the

next generation of sports professionals.

Social media, HBCU media and sports media were abuzz with excitement about Floyd’s barrier-breaking news, including being nicknamed by fans “Trailblazing Thai.”

In her moment of celebration, she took the opportunity to show gratitude to fellow FAMU SJGC alumna Tiffany A. Greene, the first African American woman to become a play-by-play college football commentator for a major network.

Brian Howard, Alabama A&M’s assistant athletic director for athletic communications, said Floyd’s achievement reflects her contributions and vision to impact college sports.

Floyd previously served as a digital media specialist and reporter for Alabama A&M athletics and has had an award-winning career as a multimedia sports journalist.

She’s been featured on NBC Sports Philadelphia, in HBCU Legends on Sports Illustrated, and on ESPN’s Andscape. Her résumé also includes work on ESPNU and ESPN+, plus hosting major events like the Celebration Bowl, Cheez-It Bowl, Florida Classic and Black College Hall of Fame Game.

2025 US Open Celebrates the Legacy of FAMU Alumna Althea Gibson

By Sabrina Moore

The 2025 US Open hit a smash with its theme “Celebrating 75 Years of Breaking Barriers,” honoring Althea Gibson’s historic representation at the 1950 U.S. National Championships, where she shattered the tennis color barrier.

Marisa Grimes, USTA chief diversity and inclusion officer, says this is not the first time Gibson has been celebrated, but this time had to be special.

“We always wanted to make sure we were sharing Althea’s legacy and educating people on the effects she had on sports. But obviously, this year was an opportunity for us to amp that up,” said Grimes, who has held her role for the past five years.

The US Open aimed to pull out all the stops and connect with everything that was meaningful to Gibson. For Michelle Curry, Gibson’s relative and administrator of the Estate of Althea Gibson, that included Florida A&M University.

“Althea’s village includes FAMU forever and a day because she’s a graduate,” said Curry, who believes the mission is to uplift Gibson’s legacy and make her visible because, for so long, she was invisible.

During the tournament, held Aug. 24 to Sept. 7, the US Open hosted several events representing Gibson’s past, present and future. These included a Divine Nine Step Show featuring a performance by the Beta Alpha Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Gibson’s FAMU Chapter), and the HBCU Live event featuring FAMU and the “Marching 100,” which centered on her legacy and its impact on Black tennis and pop culture. Finally, a Jack and Jill tennis clinic for kids was also held.

The big, bold sound and renowned pageantry of the “Marching 100” greeted thousands of attendees entering the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, New York. In grand fashion, the “100” performed on the main court — the first band to ever hold this honor. FAMU’s tennis team also participated, teaching kids the fundamentals of tennis, while alumni from across the country paraded in orange and green, exuding the spirit of a Rattler.

Julessa Velez was among the 30 band members who made the once-in-a-lifetime trip.

“I was first introduced to Althea when FAMU renamed the street (Wahnish Way), and now, attending the US Open. I’m being educated on everything that she has done and her accomplishments,” said Velez, a graduating senior.

FAMU director of tennis, Coach Nikki Houston, said she was honored to represent someone who broke barriers not only for the University, but across tennis and golf.

“They (USTA) did a great job of posting Althea’s image everywhere we went,” said Houston, who brought seven of her players.

Senior tennis player, Reagan Harris, said the experience made her proud to be a Rattler.

“It feels good knowing you are a part of something historical and honoring someone who was a trailblazer for me and my teammates,” Harris said.

With the inclusion of HBCU Live over the past five years, the US Open has brought a “yard experience” to the Open, said Lauren Grove, chief experience architect for The Grant Access, LLC, an event planning and production firm.

“I think that Black people feel more welcome in the space in a different way because the US Open is doing something to welcome them,” said Grove, also a FAMU alum.

Grimes says USTA is committed to keeping Gibson’s body of work alive.

“This absolutely won’t be the last time we talk about Althea and her legacy in the sport and what she means to the Black community and to all communities.”

Florida State University Honors FAMU Coach Charlie Ward with Retirement of No. 12 Jersey

By Dennis Driscoll

The No. 12 jersey formerly worn by Florida A&M University’s Head Basketball Coach Charlie Ward, was retired at Florida State University on Oct. 26 in front of an enthusiastic crowd of fans wearing both garnet and gold and orange and green. Ward, who led the Florida State basketball team to three NCAA Tournaments, is still the only player in history to win the Heisman Trophy and be selected in the first round of the NBA Draft.

Ward is the first student-athlete in Florida State history to have his number retired in both football (No. 17) and basketball (No. 12). Ward played for 12 years in the NBA with the Knicks, the San Antonio Spurs and the Houston Rockets. The point guard averaged 6.3 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists in 630 career games played in the NBA. Ward helped lead the Knicks to the NBA Playoffs four times including the 1989 NBA Championship Finals.

“I enjoyed every moment of my college experience,” said Ward. “I’m

grateful for the honor of having both of my jerseys retired. It’s truly a blessing from my Heavenly Father to be acknowledged in this way and see the work I put in as a student-athlete was recognized by others. Grateful for all of my family, coaches, administrators, professors and teammates for assisting in my success.”

On April 1, 2025, Ward was named FAMU’s 16th head men’s basketball coach in April 2025. Ward retired as a player in 2004 and began coaching for the NBA’s Houston Rockets under Jeff Van Gundy. Ward coached for the Rockets for two seasons before serving as an assistant basketball coach and head football coach at Westbury Christian School in Houston. After six seasons at Westbury, he was named head football coach at Booker T. Washington High School in Pensacola, Florida. Since 2018, Ward has been the head coach at Florida High School. In 2022, he led the team to its first state championship victory since 1963.

FSU President Richard McCullough, FAMU Acting Athletics Director Michael Smith, FAMU President Marva Johnson and FAMU Coach Charlie Ward. (Photo by Glenn Beil)

RATTLERS Making Waves in the NFL

By Vaughn Wilson

Florida A&M University has a rich legacy of producing NFL talent, including two of the game’s all-time greats—Robert “Bob” Hayes and Kenneth “Ken” Riley—both immortalized in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

Today, a new generation of Rattlers are making their mark. Four recent FAMU standouts—Markquese Bell (Dallas Cowboys), Terrell Jennings (New England Patriots), Isaiah Land (Indianapolis Colts) and Xavier Smith (Los Angeles Rams)—are seizing their NFL opportunities and showing signs of breakout seasons ahead.

Bell grabbed national attention last year with the Cowboys and may be on the verge of a starting role, especially with the team’s leading tackler requesting a trade. Jennings, in the Patriots’ first preseason game this year, found the end zone for the first touchdown of the preseason. Land brought the same speed and disruptive force he displayed at FAMU, tallying tackles and quarterback pressures for the Colts. Smith led the Rams in receiving during Week 1 of the preseason, posting three catches for 55 yards.

Former head coach Willie Simmons, who recruited all four players to FAMU, is excited about the possibilities of their success.

“I can’t say enough about who they were as young men. Their drive, their work ethic, it’s no surprise. I’m proud, but not surprised. You know those guys, and you know how they work, and they continue to exhibit that at the highest level. To watch in a two-day span, Xavier and Markquese going head-to-head, Isaiah making stops, and Jennings scoring, is a testament to who they are,” Simmons said.

RATTLERS

THE ROADS TO THE NFL

Markquese Bell

Dallas Cowboys

Markquese Bell transferred from Maryland in 2019 and quickly became an impact player, earning All-MEAC honors in 2019 and All-SWAC honors in 2021. He was also a central figure in the ESPN docu-series Why Not Us, produced by NBA legend Chris Paul, which followed the Rattlers for the entire 2022 season.

Terrell Jennings

New England Patriots

Terrell Jennings took a less traditional path, splitting time as a running back before breaking out as the featured back in his senior year. His dominant lateseason performances helped FAMU capture its first SWAC Championship and the Black College National Championship in winning the Celebration Bowl title.

Isaiah Land

Dallas Cowboys

Isaiah Land was a defensive powerhouse, winning the 2021 Buck Buchanan Award as the top defensive player in the FCS. His knack for sacks and backfield stops made him a two-time All-SWAC and multi-time All-American.

Xavier Smith

Los Angeles Rams

Xavier Smith began as a walk-on, the only offer he received coming from FAMU. Through relentless work, he became the Rattlers’ go-to receiver, earning AllAmerican honors and multiple All-SWAC selections.

All four athletes earned their bachelor’s degrees while competing at the highest level of college football—true examples of studentathlete excellence. It has been decades since FAMU has had four players in the NFL at the same time, and this quartet is carrying the torch for Rattler Nation.

FAMU Celebrates the 2025 FAMU 40 Under 40 Honorees

For the past three years, the FAMU Office of Communications has celebrated The Hill’s most accomplished alumni with the 40 Under 40 Awards. These accomplished Rattlers are breaking barriers, setting new records and transforming their communities in a range of fields from education and fine arts to business and healthcare. And these alums are doing it all before they turn 40! Congratulations to the 40 Under 40 Class of 2025.

SHELBY AVERY MARKETING MANAGER, FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Shelby Avery is an accomplished marketing leader and community advocate with expertise in integrated marketing and strategic partnerships. At Ford Motor Company, she led the launch of Calm, an in-vehicle wellness app, and oversees global engagement as Chair of Ford’s NextGen Employee Resource Group with chapters in seven countries. A double alumna of Florida A&M University, Avery serves as vice president of the FAMU NAA Michigan Chapter and board member of The Gathering Spot Detroit. Her honors include Ford’s 30 Under 30, the BEYA Modern Day Technology Leader Award and the Waves of Change STEM Professional Achievement Award. She credits FAMU for instilling in her the values of leadership, service, and resilience that drive her success.

JAPERA K. BARNES, PH.D., RHIA ADJUNCT PROFESSOR, FLORIDA GATEWAY COLLEGE

Japera K. Barnes, Ph.D., RHIA, is a leadership consultant, author, speaker and professor of health information management with more than a decade of experience in healthcare and higher education. Through inspiring keynotes, transformative workshops and personalized coaching, she empowers women to break barriers, step boldly into their leadership potential, and lead with confidence, purpose and power. Barnes holds a Ph.D. in educational leadership and a Bachelor of Science in health informatics and information management from FAMU as well as an MBA from Saint Leo University. A voice in the health information management field, she is a soughtafter conference speaker and webinar host, recognized for advancing awareness and leadership within the profession.

DIA BLACKMON ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST, COLLEGE CAREER & BEYOND | MIDNIGHT GOLF PROGRAM

Dia Blackmon is an accomplished alumni engagement specialist at College Career & Beyond | Midnight Golf Program, a nonprofit that prepares students for college and career success through life skills training, mentorship and the game of golf. She was recognized in a FAMU alumni spotlight for founding Dia’s Dolls, a community service initiative that provides dolls to young Black girls in Detroit during the holidays. Blackmon is a dedicated leader in education and community service, serving as a mentor for the Delta G.E.M.S. and Pretty Brown Girls Program. Additionally, she serves as an undergraduate liaison for the FAMU NAA Michigan Chapter. She is a proud member of the Detroit Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and was named the 2025 Detroit HBCU Honors Alumni of the Year.

JONATHAN BLACKMON

SCHOLAR-PRACTITIONER, FAMU COLLEGE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, ARTS, AND HUMANITIES

Jonathan Blackmon is a scholar-practitioner in the public land management sector and the youngest faculty member on staff in the College of Social Sciences, Arts, and Humanities at FAMU. A professor of political science, he is currently spearheading a faculty-led study abroad program to Brazil. As a practitioner, he served, until recently, as the Brazil operations manager for the U.S. Forest Service. In this role, he led technical exchanges between public land management agencies (such as the USDA and Forest Service), the U.S. State Department and Brazilian federal counterparts to further continued cooperation and share best practices around the stewardship of natural resources. Primarily working in the Amazon region, he also played a key role in connecting NGOs serving indigenous and rural Amazonian communities as a representative of his agency and by extension the U.S. Government overseas.

CONSTANCE BOYCE

REAL ESTATE AGENT, ATLANTA COMMUNITIES REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE

Constance Boyce is a loving wife, proud mother of three and a seasoned real estate agent with over 17 years of experience across Metro Atlanta. Boyce has made it her life’s work to empower people of color through real estate— helping them achieve homeownership, build generational wealth and navigate the challenges of foreclosure with dignity and a path forward. Since 2008, she has successfully handled hundreds of short sales, personally guiding clients through the complexities of the process to save their homes and secure their financial future. Known for her commitment to family and community, as well as her grit, compassion and unmatched determination, Boyce has continued the Rattler Legacy by building a real-estate business rooted in service, advocacy and long-term impact. Above all, she leads with grace—balancing the demands of business and family, proving every day that passion, purpose and family can flourish together.

ALSEAN BRYANT, PHARMD, AAHIVP

SENIOR MEDICAL SCIENTIST, GILEAD SCIENCES

Alsean Bryant, PharmD, is a pharmacist, health equity advocate and creative visionary working at the crossroads of medicine and music. As senior medical scientist at Gilead Sciences, he advances HIV education across the Southeast U.S., earning recognition as Gilead’s Alvan Fisher MSL Rookie of the Year. Previously, he launched a pharmacist-led PrEP clinic in the D.C. Metro Area to expand HIV prevention services in underserved communities and served as president of the Washington D.C. Pharmacy Association, championing legislation to elevate pharmacists’ role in patient care. Beyond public health, Bryant has released over 30 original songs synced with ABC, BET and other avenues. He is a contributing author of “I Wear A White Coat,” sharing his journey from South Georgia to pharmacy leadership. Balancing scientific impact with artistic expression, Bryant lives a life of purpose – mentoring future leaders and inspiring change through equity and creativity.

JAZMYNE BRYANT, PH.D., MPH

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, FAMU SCHOOL OF ALLIED HEALTH SCIENCES

Jazmyne Bryant, Ph.D., is an advocate, entrepreneur and proud second-generation Rattler serving as an assistant professor in the School of Allied Health Sciences at Florida A&M University. Selected in 2014 by President Barack Obama for the inaugural class of HBCU All Stars, her career has centered on elevating communities and empowering scholars. Through her business, she transforms the doctoral journey—infusing wellness, coaching and connection. She is chair of the Tallahassee-Leon County Commission on the Status of Women & Girls, where she created the Businesses for a Better (BFAB) Tallahassee initiative. Bryant is married to Tevin, her high-school sweetheart, and is mom to her favorite girl, Theory.

ANDREW COLLINS, ESQ.

SENIOR COUNSEL, UBER TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

Andrew Collins, Esq., is a senior counsel for Uber Technologies, Inc., where he leads a legal team advising on global, cutting-edge tech products for Uber Eats. Previously, Collins served as general counsel for theGroup, LLC, a DCbased federal consulting firm. He has served as treasurer of the Washington Bar Association and, in 2009, joined the inaugural class of White House interns for President Obama. He received his Bachelor of Science and MBA from FAMU, where he proudly served as student body president, university trustee and NAACP chapter president. Collins studied law at King’s College in London before earning his juris doctorate from Boston College Law School. In 2019, he led his class’ efforts to raise over $100,000 toward scholarships for first-year Rattlers. Collins lives in Atlanta with his wife, Meaghan, and their two young children, Violet and Addison. He is a member of the Beta Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

JEREMY DAVIS

DIRECTOR OF HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAMS, COLLEGE BEYOND

Jeremy Davis is an accomplished education leader and nonprofit strategist working to end the national teacher shortage and expand access to college and career opportunities for the next generation. In his current role with College Beyond, he leads initiatives to expand and strengthen the teacher pipeline across 10 states and regions. As director of programs at Son of a Saint, he led academic, mentoring and enrichment initiatives, expanding the organization’s reach to over 200 students. He also launched the McCollum Scholars initiative, awarding nearly $900,000 in scholarships. Both programs have earned national recognition for impact and innovation. Jeremy serves as board chair of JCFA, a charter school network serving nontraditional high school students, and as a committee chair for the New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute. A proud graduate of FAMU, he is an active member of the FAMU National Alumni Association – Louisiana Chapter and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

TIFFANI DAVIS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & STRATEGY, ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES

Tiffani Davis is a dynamic finance executive, an inclusive leader and a proud graduate of FAMU, where she earned both her Bachelor of Science and MBA in finance. She serves as executive director of Finance & Strategy at Estée Lauder Companies, guiding financial planning and strategic growth for over 20 iconic beauty brands. Deeply connected to her HBCU roots, she forged a landmark partnership with FAMU and ELC to cultivate future Black beauty leaders. While at ELC, she also led their Black Employee Resource Group, advancing equity, representation, and access across the organization. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Davis is dedicated to excellence and an impact.

DEANTHONY L. FRIDAY, ED.S.

ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL, LYNWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

DeAnthony Friday, Ed.S., is a dedicated leader, proud Rattler and social media influencer. A dual-degree alumnus of FAMU, he currently serves as an interim principal in California. In his leadership roles, Friday has supported schools in improving academic outcomes, achieving STEAM designations and securing full athletic membership in the California Interscholastic Federation—thereby expanding athletic opportunities for students. He has secured grants to fund mentoring and leadership programs for young men of color, launched culturally responsive afterschool initiatives and leads restorative justice and equity efforts to uplift historically marginalized students. A Life Member of the FAMU National Alumni Association, Friday previously served as membership chair for the MiamiDade Chapter and now chairs the Freshman Class of 2005 Executive Committee. Currently pursuing a doctorate in educational leadership at USC, Friday continues to invest in his growth while embodying FAMU’s legacy of Excellence With Caring.

LANCE E. GOLD

REGIONAL MARKETING MANAGER,

INFORMATICA

Lance E. Gold is a business strategist and AI innovator transforming the future of marketing through artificial intelligence. A proud graduate of FAMU’s School of Business and Industry, Gold has become a trailblazer in developing and implementing AI-first solutions that improve corporate workflows and deliver measurable results. With a foundation in business administration and a savvy approach, Gold merges strategy and technology to drive innovation. In his corporate work, he partners across teams to integrate AI tools that streamline operations, enhance decision-making and accelerate productivity. Equally dedicated to community impact, Gold mentors and encourages youth to embrace AI, equipping them with the skills to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Grounded in faith and the values of service, innovation, and integrity, he continues to honor his FAMU roots. Gold is not only embracing the AI era but also helping shape its future.

ASHLEE W. GOMEZ CEO, IMPRESSIONS OF BEAUTY

Ashlee W. Gomez is a visionary CEO and entrepreneur whose work has redefined marketing and enhanced the student experience at HBCUs. Her passion for HBCUs began on “the Hill” and fuels her mission to inspire, mentor and create opportunities for the next generation. As founder of Impressions of Beauty™ (IOB), she has connected leading brands to over 75 campuses and 500,000+ students. Her work has transformed how corporations engage with HBCU students, empowering young women of color to grow in confidence, leadership and purpose. Gomez is advancing IOB’s mission through initiatives like her recent AchieveHER Summit, Black Girls Matter Meetup Tour and AchieveHER Academy. She also recently co-founded Brand the Yard™, a luxe multicultural college marketing agency. Guided by faith and a commitment to a purpose-driven life, Gomez treasures her greatest calling as wife to her husband, Kevin, and mom to her children, Kaden and Klaire.

AMBER GRAY-MOORE FOUNDER AND PRINCIPAL DESIGNER, GRAYSON INTERIORS

Amber Gray-Moore is a proud 2012 graduate of Florida A&M University, where she earned her B.S. in secondary English education. During her time at FAMU, she balanced academic excellence with service and leadership, including roles in the Student Government Association, SISTUHS, Inc. and as an executive board member of the Beta Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Now based in Tampa, Florida, Gray-Moore is the founder and principal designer of Grayson Interiors, a boutique luxury design firm celebrated for crafting soulful, elevated spaces rooted in beauty, intention and individuality. A former educator, her design journey has been shaped by her upbringing, more than a decade of experience and mentorship from global design leaders. Gray-Moore is deeply honored to be recognized by her alma mater as one of FAMU’s 40 Under 40, proudly representing the Rattler legacy through creativity, leadership, and service.

MARIO HENDERSON, ESQ.

SENIOR HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST, BLUE ORIGIN

Mario Henderson holds multiple degrees from Florida A&M University, including a Juris Doctorate. He has built a distinguished career supporting world-class organizations such as The Walt Disney Company, Lockheed Martin and, currently, Blue Origin, where he advances people strategy in a high-growth, innovation-driven environment. His expertise spans compliance, policy, and organizational development, with a commitment to fostering inclusive, effective workplaces. Beyond corporate leadership, Henderson actively supports legal organizations and political causes, reflecting his dedication to civic engagement and community impact. His career demonstrates a balance of professional excellence and service to others.

KEYONNA M. JENKINS, M.D.

INTERVENTIONAL PAIN PHYSICIAN, ATLANTA VA MEDICAL CENTER

Keyonna Jenkins, M.D., is a native of St. Petersburg, Florida, and a proud 2008 graduate of Florida A&M University. She earned her Doctor of Medicine from Meharry Medical College in 2013 and went on to serve 10 years as an active-duty physician in the United States Army. During her service, she held leadership roles including chief of interventional pain, chief of physical medicine and rehabilitation and chief of the integrated pain management clinic. Jenkins also made history as the first Black female Pain Fellow at Brooke Army Medical Center. In 2023, she transitioned to the Atlanta VA, where she continues to provide exceptional care for veterans. Board-certified in both physical medicine & rehabilitation and pain medicine, she is also deeply committed to mentorship, guiding students at the pre-medical, medical and resident levels.

DOMONIQUE JONES

PRINCIPAL COORDINATOR / OWNER, CREATED BY NIQUE

Domonique Jones is a principal coordinator for a Fortune 500 company with expertise in fraud prevention, risk analysis and investigative strategy. A proud FAMU graduate, she earned her bachelor’s in social work before completing a master’s in psychology at Grand Canyon University, focusing on health and behavioral sciences. Passionate about service, Jones has led back-to-school drives and community events, ensuring families have access to essential resources. She also mentors youth and inspires others to pursue education and resilience. As the owner of Created By Nique, she transforms creativity into a business, crafting custom accessories and personalized merchandise. Whether solving complex fraud cases, empowering her community, or designing for her clients, Jones leads with integrity, vision and purpose, building a legacy of service, education and empowerment.

ROYLE KING, II

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, TALLAHASSEE-LEON COUNTY COUNCIL ON THE STATUS OF MEN AND BOYS

Royle King, II is a nationally recognized youth advocate, mentor and nonprofit leader, serving as the inaugural executive director of the Tallahassee-Leon County Council on the Status of Men and Boys. Raised in one of Dallas’ most violent neighborhoods, he found purpose through the Omega Sparks mentoring program and the Dallas/Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists’ boot camp, which led him to FAMU. In 2008, King founded the Omega Lamplighters, a transformative mentoring and leadership program for boys in grades three through 12. The initiative has impacted over 2,000 youth and expanded beyond Florida to multiple U.S. cities and internationally to Naples, Italy, emphasizing leadership, academics, character and service. King also serves as the 25th State Representative of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., in Florida. With over 15 years of experience, he remains a leading voice in mentoring, youth development and violence prevention.

HONORABLE

MELLORI LUMPKIN-DAWSON

JUDGE, MAGISTRATE COURT OF COBB COUNTY, GEORGIA

Judge Mellori Lumpkin-Dawson is the only Black woman serving full-time on the Magistrate Court of Cobb County, Georgia, the state’s third-largest county. Known as “The People’s Court,” it provides direct access to justice for nearly 800,000 residents, where she is committed to fairness and exemplary service. Previously, she served as a federal prosecutor with more than a decade of legal experience, earning high honors including a special commendation from the Department of Justice and a U.S. Attorney’s Award for Superior Performance. A 2009 summa cum laude graduate of the School of Business and Industry, she served as student body vice president, senate president and was initiated into the Beta Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Lumpkin-Dawson also serves as president of the Rosa Lee Spear Mission Circle at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta and is a lifetime member of the FAMU National Alumni Association.

DANA MONTGOMERY UTILITIES INDUSTRY CONSULTING SENIOR MANAGER, ACCENTURE

Dana Montgomery is a proud graduate of Florida A&M University, where she earned both a bachelor’s degree in accounting and an MBA. She is a consulting senior manager in Accenture’s utilities industry practice, helping energy and utilities clients transform customer experiences and modernize operations through digital solutions. Her leadership extends beyond the workplace. Montgomery is executive sponsor for Accenture Charlotte’s African American Employee Resource Group and serves as the YoPro program manager for the Young Black Leadership Alliance, a nonprofit cultivating future leaders. She also co-led Project Elevate, a firm-wide inclusion initiative, and has traveled abroad on service trips to Belize, building homes and mentoring youth. A charter member of the Omega Xi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Psi, she has long embodied leadership and service. At the center of her journey is her daughter, Diona, who inspires her to lead with purpose.

CHARLES E. MOORER, JR.

MUSICIAN

Charles Moorer Jr. developed his passion for music and youth under the leadership of his mentor, Willie Pyfrom (FAMU class of 1958). Charles earned a degree in music education at FAMU, where he studied with professors such as Julian E. White, Ph.D., Charles S. Bing and Shelby Chipman, Ph.D. FAMU offered opportunities at high-profile events, including the Grammy Awards and three Super Bowl performances. Upon earning his degree, he became the band director at his high school alma mater, leading the band to national appearances, including “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.” Moorer earned the Florida Bandmasters Association Tom Bishop award. After completing his master’s degree, he became the director of bands at McArthur High School in Hollywood, Florida. His students have performed across the country, including Carnegie Hall, and have earned over $35 million in scholarships. Moorer is on the State E-Board of the Florida Bandmasters Association and oversees all band programs in Broward County.

ERIC O’REAR, PH.D.

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, RHODIUM GROUP

Eric O’Rear, Ph.D., and holds a B.S. in mathematical sciences and a Ph.D. in agricultural economics from Purdue University. He is an associate director at Rhodium Group, leading research on clean energy technologies and transportation decarbonization. He facilitated the development of the FAMU Climate Policy Fellows Program, which introduces students to the connections between engineering, economics, and climate-related science and public policy. O’Rear was selected to serve on the EPA’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority-Serving Institutions Federal Advisory Council, which provides recommendations on how to ensure that HBCUs/MSIs receive support for student engagement in the environmental space. He will publish his first children’s book, “Captain Noah: A Climate Change Superhero,” which educates young children about climate change. He also served as the parliamentarian for the Washington, D.C. Chapter of the FAMU NAA.

JANISE PHILLIPS, PHARMD, BCPS, BCCCP, BCIDP CLINICAL PHARMACY MANAGER, EMORY HEALTHCARE

Janise B. Phillips, PharmD, is a global healthcare leader and a summa cum laude 2010 graduate of FAMU’s College of Pharmacy. She holds triple board certifications in pharmacotherapy (BCPS), critical care (BCCCP) and infectious diseases (BCIDP). As clinical pharmacy manager at Emory Healthcare, she leads clinical services, formulary initiatives and stewardship programs to improve patient outcomes. An international speaker she has presented across the Middle East and the U.S. Deeply committed to philanthropy, Phillips is a proud initiate of the Beta Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and a charter member of Omega Theta Omega—the sorority’s first chapter in the Middle East. Dedicated to youth mentorship, she participates annually in STEM career fairs for students in DeKalb County, Georgia. A member of various professional organizations and the recipient of multiple awards, Phillips blends professional excellence, global influence and community service.

LARRYNNEE PIERRE FRACTIONAL EXECUTIVE, PIERRE PRECISION CONSULTING GROUP, LLC

Larrynnee Pierre is an independent fractional executive in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area with a track record of strategic leadership and business process improvement. She is a second-generation Rattler and a two-time alumna with over 15 years of experience in accounting and consulting. She is dedicated to causes that empower youth, elevate women and drive social change. Pierre is a life member of the FAMU National Alumni Association, serving in the Dallas-Fort Worth Chapter and the FAMU Freshman Class of 2004’s Endowment Committee. Committed to her community and philanthropy, she is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Jack and Jill of America, Inc., National Council of Negro Women and Girl Scouts of America (Troop #4645). Pierre is the proud wife of Kerby Pierre and mother of their amazing daughters: Londyn, Lairsyn and Laityn.

WHITNEY POWELL, ESQ.

PARTNER, COLE, SCOTT, & KISSANE, P.A.

Whitney Baldwin Powell is a native of West Palm Beach, Florida, and is a partner at Cole, Scott, & Kissane, P.A. She earned a B.S. in political science, a M.A.S.S. in public administration and a juris doctorate from FAMU. In addition to her service with the National Bar Association, she is a past president of the F. Malcolm Cunningham, Sr. Bar Association. Powell is also active with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Palm Beach County Bar Association, Palm Beach County Sheree Davis Cunningham Black Women Lawyers Association, YWCA of Palm Beach County, Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Northboro Elementary PTO and Gray’s Temple CME Church. Legacy Magazine named her one of South Florida’s Most Influential & Powerful Black Professionals and one of South Florida’s 40 Under 40 Black Leaders of Today & Tomorrow, and, along with her husband, one of South Florida’s Power Couples.

CARLOS RICHARDSON

SUPERVISOR PROJECT MANAGER, NAVAL FACILITIES ENGINEERING SYSTEMS COMMANDS

Carlos Richardson is a Tallahassee, Florida native and graduate of Florida A&M University with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in architecture and landscape architecture. In 2011, his career began at Carnegie Mellon University’s Remaking Cities Institute and later with Pittsburgh’s Urban Redevelopment Authority. In 2015, Richardson was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Navy Civil Engineer Corps, managing more than $1.7 billion in construction and facilities projects across major naval installations. Today, he supports the Navy and Marine Corps working for NAVFAC Southeast, overseeing $1.3 billion in facility support contracts across the Southeast and Cuba. He and his wife of 10 years are proud parents of two young children.

NAPOLEON ROBINSON VICE PRESIDENT, CHARLES SCHWAB

Napoleon Robinson is a financial advisor (CFP®) managing $1.2 billion in client assets and an entrepreneur with ventures in finance, real estate, hospitality and e-commerce. He earned both his B.B.A. and MBA in finance from FAMU. Robinson served as chair of the School of Business & Industry Roundtable and treasurer for the Beta Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity and the National Panhellenic Council. He is passionate about financial literacy, empowering youth through education, scholarship awards and strategic partnerships that promote money management and investing skills. As a member of 100 Black Men, he mentors local students, helping them prepare for academic and professional success. An avid traveler, fisherman, and loyal Rattler season-ticket holder, Robinson embodies FAMU’s mission of empowering communities through education, leadership and service, carrying forward the university’s legacy of excellence.

IVY J. SALTERS BRANCH VICE PRESIDENT, VYSTAR CREDIT UNION

Ivy J. Salters brings over 11 years of experience in the financial sector, currently serving as branch vice president at VyStar Credit Union in Tallahassee, Florida. A proud FAMU alumna, she leads with integrity and a passion for community impact. She serves on the boards of Omega Lamplighters, Inc. and the Tallahassee Trainers Foundation, mentoring youth and supporting underserved communities. Her volunteer work across the city reflects her commitment to service. Salters has received multiple honors, including VyStar’s Volunteer of the Year, Oxford Learning Academy’s Community Leader of the Year and Destiny Church’s Unsung Hero Award. Whether advancing financial literacy or empowering future leaders, Salters leads with purpose and heart.

ASHLEY SCOTT

FOUNDER AND OWNER, A. SCOTT CONSULTING GROUP

Ashley Scott, a proud FAMU alumna, has created a lasting impact by investing in her hometown, Tallahassee. As the founder of A. Scott Consulting Group, she has secured over $167 million in funding for nonprofits and businesses globally, with a significant share benefiting Tallahassee’s underserved populations. A passionate supporter of Florida A&M University, Scott has donated to the School of Journalism, developed paid internships for students and supports research and rural initiatives. She also provides consulting for several core university programs. Her firm recently launched Approved & Grant-ED, a free national magazine showcasing impactful nonprofits and businesses. Through her nonprofit, Scott has provided free summer programming for youth and mentored young adults. Recently, she launched Oxford Learning Academy, a K–5 school that has awarded over $75,000 in scholarships and covered staff college tuition through partnerships.

MAJOR JAMES SEAY

SENIOR INTELLIGENCE

BRIEFER TO THE DIRECTOR OF INTELLIGENCE, US CENTRAL COMMAND

Major James Seay currently serves in the United States Army as the senior intelligence briefer to the director of intelligence. In this role, he leads a high-performing team that delivers time-sensitive, forward-thinking analysis to senior military leaders and national security directors. He credits much of his success to the faculty of the College of Social Sciences, Arts, and Humanities, as well as the Army ROTC program at Florida A&M University. Seay remains actively engaged with the National Alumni Association and the Marching 100 Alumni Band. Dedicated to lifelong learning, Seay holds advanced degrees from Georgetown University and the National Intelligence University. Beyond his professional and academic pursuits, above all, he takes pride in being a devoted father to two children and a supportive husband to his wife, a fellow HBCU graduate.

DWAYNE L. SIMMONS, PHARMD, MHA, CHFP, ACHE DIRECTOR, WOMEN STUDIES AND INFANT SERVICES, MEDSTAR HEALTH

Dwayne L. Simmons is a healthcare leader committed to transforming care delivery and improving the clinical outcomes of populations. After FAMU, he worked with the Center for Minority Studies, expanding HIV treatment services across Washington, DC’s underserved communities. While at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Simmons developed a three-hospital, clinical discharge service, reducing patient readmission rates across the health system. Currently, Simmons is director of women’s and infants’ services at MedStar Health, where U.S. News & World Report ranked his team one of the “Top 50” places in the country for obstetrics and gynecologic care (#45) in 2024. He completed a Healthcare Executive Fellowship with Loyola Medicine and studied abroad, conducting international healthcare research in the Netherlands with George Washington University. He enjoys cycling for charity, having recently biked 200 miles from London to Paris in 24 hours.

GARRETT L. SOLOMON

ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR FACILITIES AND CAPITAL PLANNING, CATAWBA COLLEGE

Garrett L. Solomon, a native of Stone Mountain, Georgia, is a distinguished facilities planner whose career blends architectural expertise with strategic leadership. He earned both his Bachelor of Science in architecture and Master of Science in facilities management from Florida A&M University. Currently, Solomon serves as associate vice president for facilities and capital planning at Catawba College in Salisbury, North Carolina, overseeing a facilities portfolio valued at more than $700 million. His leadership has guided numerous capital projects, delivering impactful infrastructure that supports institutional growth. Solomon is a former drum major for FAMU’s Marching 100 and a Fall 2010 initiate of the Upsilon Psi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He is part of a proud Rattler family. His mother, father, brother, sister and great aunt, who helped lead the Tallahassee bus boycott, share that FAMU legacy.

KENNARD SPEED

ENTREPRENEUR

AND MULTI-UNIT FRANCHISEE, SMOOTHIE KING

Kennard Speed is a dynamic leader, educator and entrepreneur dedicated to transforming communities through service, innovation and empowerment. A proud Miami native and graduate of Florida A&M University, he holds a Bachelor’s in business administration and a Master’s in educational leadership. With over 15 years of experience advancing educational equity, Speed began his career as a Teach For America corps member and now serves on the boards of Memphis College Preparatory Academy and Mississippi Global Academy. Beyond education, Speed is a mission-driven entrepreneur. Since 2018, he has owned and operated three thriving Smoothie King franchises in Memphis, each serving as a hub for mentorship, youth development and workforce readiness.

ANNA TAYLOR FOUNDER AND OWNER, TAYLOR CONSULTING AND TAYLOR PROPERTIES

Anna Taylor is a visionary leader whose journey from personal hardship to professional excellence embodies resilience, purpose and impact. As a communications leader, she has guided global teams and shaped strategies that align vision with results for federal, community and Fortune 100 companies—strategies that inspire action worldwide. Founder of Taylor Consulting and Taylor Properties, her innovative affordable housing model earned NPR recognition, while her Pantone For the Culture collaboration celebrates diversity on a global stage. A LEAD Atlanta alumna and proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Anna creates spaces—literal and figurative— where people can thrive. “Everything I do is to make my mom and daughter proud.”

COURTNEY THOMAS

VICE PRESIDENT FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS, GREATER NEW ORLEANS FOUNDATION

Courtney Thomas is a proud New Orleanian who serves as the vice president for communications and public affairs at the Greater New Orleans Foundation. One of her accomplishments is having developed a national communications campaign, raising over $3 million for victims of the Bourbon Street terrorist attack. As a graduate of FAMU’s School of Journalism & Graphic Communication, Thomas is proud to have utilized the public relations skills learned at SJGC to create a career that has afforded her experiences from working with Essence Communications to crisis communications. Thomas also served as the chief communications officer for New Orleans’ water utility, where she focused on public relations and governmental affairs. Thomas is the proud mother of a wonderful seven-year-old and enjoys indulging in the culture of her beloved city, as well as cheering on her favorite football teams, the New Orleans Saints and the FAMU Rattlers.

MILAN THOMPSON ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS, FAMU

Milan C. Thompson, a fifth-generation native of Jacksonville, Florida, is the assistant director of government relations for FAMU. Since campaigning for Barack Obama’s presidency, she sought a calling in politics, which has led to her successful career. For nearly 15 years, she has worked to enhance funding for FAMU, including the construction of the College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences’ (CoPPS) West Wing, the Center for Access and Student Success (CASS), Howard Hall and other projects. Thompson is the creator and owner of her first successful small business, MiCo Candles, which offers healthy, aromatherapeutic products. She enjoys spending time with her grandparents and godson, in addition to creating, practicing yoga, gardening, relaxing and traveling. And yes, Milan has visited Milan.

TANZA “TEE” THOMPSON

REAL ESTATE AGENT, KELLER WILLIAMS TOWN AND COUNTRY

A third-generation entrepreneur with over 13 years of experience, Tanza Thompson is a mission-driven leader, recognized with the prestigious JMI 30 Award by the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship. She led a successful family business succession during a parent health crisis, overseeing $250 million in construction projects, securing $2.5 million in contracts and building a $1.5 million affordable housing portfolio. Passionate about community sustainability and youth empowerment, Thompson develops business models that create jobs and foster equitable local growth. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in construction engineering at UAB, she continues to advance holistic, community-centered entrepreneurship focused on innovation, impact, and economic inclusion.

KENEDRIA THURMAN

DIRECTOR, FAMU EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH CENTER FOR CHILD DEVELOPMENT (ERCCD)

Kenedria “Keke” Thurman — forever thee Queen of Orange and Green — is a proud preschool educator, dynamic speaker and creative force with over 24 years in early childhood education. Born and raised in Tallahassee’s Frenchtown and a proud product of FAMU’s summer youth programs, Thurman is known for her joyful spirit, community leadership and commitment to children. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from FAMU and later a Master of Science in brainsmart teaching and learning from Nova Southeastern University. Initiated in the Beta Alpha Chapter, Thurman is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Since 2012, she has been dedicated to FAMU’s Tiniest Rattlers. By 2014, she became director of the Educational Research Center for Child Development. She was honored as Division of Student Affairs Rookie of the Year (2015) and Distinguished Professional (2018). In 2022, she founded FAMU’s first national adult social-emotional learning conference, titled Conscious Discipline with Excellence.

LATOYA WATKINS PROGRAM MANAGER, RIVER HAWK CONSULTING

LaToya Watkins is 2007 School of Business and Industry (SBI) graduate (Bachelor of Science in accounting). She completed two internships that resulted in a full-time auditor role at PwC. Over the course of 18 years, Watkins earned a Master of Business Administration degree, joined the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), obtained the Certified Defense Financial Manager (CDFM) designation and held several leadership roles—including co-chairing a Black inclusion diversity program. Watkins also led technical teams in accounting, budgeting and finance, while guiding groups through corporate giveback initiatives. Her efforts have supported organizations such as So Others Might Eat (SOME), the American Red Cross and Food and Friends. Today, she serves as a program manager at River Hawk Consulting, continuously building new connections and refining her technical expertise and leadership skills.

KATIA L. WILSON, ESQ. FOUNDER AND OWNER, THE LAW OFFICE OF KATIA L. WILSON, PLLC

Katia L. Wilson is a three-time graduate of Florida A&M University. In 2021, she founded The Law Office of Katia L. Wilson, PLLC. Her firm is driven by a mission to provide principled, community-rooted representation. She also created the “First Day Out Podcast,” a podcast dedicated to sharing the stories of individuals who have recently been released from incarceration. She currently serves as president of the Legal Rattlers Alumni Association, leading efforts to connect, support and uplift FAMU College of Law graduates. Wilson is a lifetime member of the FAMU NAA. She was recognized by Orlando Style Magazine as one of Orlando’s Top Women in Law for 2025 and was honored by The National Black Lawyers as a Top 40 Under 40. Her work reflects the values instilled in her at FAMU; excellence with caring, resilience, and service. She continues to carry the Rattler spirit into courtrooms, classrooms, and the community.

HAPPENINGOn theHill

Alumna Donates $50,000 to Support the Marching “100”

Florida A&M University alumna

Sharon Lettman-Hicks has made a generous $50,000 gift to the world-famous Marching “100,” reinforcing her commitment to supporting future generations of student musicians. The contribution is part of the Beyond the Uniform: 100 for 100 campaign, which aims to raise $900,000 annually—enough to award a $3,000 scholarship to each of the band’s 300-plus members.

For Lettman-Hicks, the Marching “100” has always been more than a band. It is a symbol of pride, discipline and excellence that carries the name of Florida A&M University across the globe. Her gift ensures that the students who dedicate countless hours to rehearsals, performances and academics receive the

resources they need to thrive on the field and in the classroom.

Director of Bands Shelby Chipman, Ph.D., expressed gratitude for the donation, calling it a powerful testament to alumni support. “This gift not only recognizes the incredible talent of our students but also invests in their academic success and personal growth,” Chipman said.

Known for its legacy, the Marching “100” has inspired audiences worldwide with unforgettable performances, from presidential inaugurations to Super Bowls. Lettman-Hicks’ gift secures that legacy by directly supporting the students who uphold its tradition of excellence and the Rattler spirit.

FAMU Professor Earns Prestigious Fulbright U.S. Scholar Award

Florida A&M University is shining on the global stage as Professor John Luque, Ph.D., MPH, has been awarded the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Scholar Award for 2025–26. Luque will travel to Quito, Ecuador, to conduct groundbreaking research on colorectal cancer screening education in collaboration with Universidad San Francisco de Quito.

Luque, a tenured professor in the College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, has built a career dedicated to improving health outcomes for underserved communities. His research focuses on communitybased interventions to raise awareness about cancer prevention, particularly among Hispanic/ Latino and African American populations. His work has been supported by leading institutions and recognized nationally for its impact.

The award carries personal meaning. “I have not been back in over 20 years,” he shared, expressing excitement about reconnecting with Ecuador and working with local students and scholars. His project aims not only to improve cancer education in Latin America but also to strengthen ties between FAMU and international partners. FAMU leaders praised Luque’s achievement as a reflection of the university’s growing global influence, enhancing research abroad and creating opportunities for exchanges, collaborations and cultural connections.

FAMU Ranks No.

FAMU College of Education Secures CAEP Reaccreditation Through 2032

Florida A&M University’s College of Education has earned full reaccreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), a milestone extending through Spring 2032.

Awarded at CAEP’s Accreditation Council meeting on April 27, the reaccreditation reflects FAMU’s success across all benchmarks—from content mastery and pedagogical expertise to clinical partnerships, candidate quality, stakeholder satisfaction, fiscal capacity and federal compliance.

“This reaccreditation reflects the high caliber of scholarship, innovation and collaboration that define our faculty, staff and students,” said Dean Sarah Price, Ph.D., highlighting how FAMU’s programs equip educators for today’s classrooms and communities.

The seven-year accreditation applies to undergraduate and post-baccalaureate initial-licensure programs across disciplines including biology, chemistry, mathematics, music, physical education, physics, social science, English and elementary and Pre-K/primary education—each enhanced with ESOL and reading endorsements.

As the only nationally recognized accreditor, CAEP ensures graduates are classroom-ready, reaffirming FAMU’s leadership in educator preparation statewide and nationally.

1 HBCU for Online Programs

Florida A&M University has been named the top HBCU for online education in the 2025 Forbes Advisor rankings, marking a pivotal moment in the University’s commitment to innovation and access.

FAMU’s online programs excelled across affordability, student outcomes, academic credibility and overall experience. With an 86% online student retention rate, the lowest loan default rate among HBCUs, and an average in-state tuition of about $5,800, the university provides unmatched value to learners seeking flexible pathways to success.

Currently, FAMU offers at least five fully online bachelor’s degree programs in high-demand fields,

including criminal justice, information technology, psychology, sociology and global security. These programs are designed to meet students where they are—supporting working professionals, returning learners and traditional undergraduates alike. This recognition affirms FAMU’s bold vision: delivering quality, flexible and affordable education without sacrificing rigor or support. It reflects the university’s ability to evolve while remaining true to its mission of opportunity, empowerment and excellence.

Meek-Eaton Black Archives Awarded $500K Institute of Museum and Library Services Grant

Florida A&M University’s Meek-Eaton Black Archives, Research Center and Museum (MEBA) has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through its Museum Grants for African American History and Culture program. This marks MEBA’s second IMLS award in three years, further solidifying its role as a national leader in the preservation, interpretation, and accessibility of African American history and culture. MEBA, founded in 1976 and housed on the main campus of Florida A&M University, is one of only a handful of federally designated repositories for African American

history and culture. The news comes as an unexpected yet welcome development, as several federal funding sources for museums and archives were eliminated this year. Despite these challenges, MEBA’s continued success in securing competitive national support underscores its resilience and growing impact as a premier cultural institution.

“We are deeply honored to receive this grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, which allows us to advance phase two of our 21st Century Access Program,” said Timothy A. Barber, MEBA director. “This funding not only strengthens our ability to expand digital access to our collections and build the operational capacity needed to meet growing demands, but also ensures robust support for our students through a multi-year internship program designed to prepare the next generation of museum and archival professionals.”

HAPPENING

On theHill

FAMU Students Shine in 2025 KIND Perfect Pitch Competition

A trio of Florida A&M University students showcased their creativity and strategic thinking to win the first-place $24,000 prize at the 2025 KIND Perfect Pitch competition, held in October, in partnership with The KIND Company.

Teammates

Makenzie Jackson, Ramona Copeland and Roxanne James developed an AIpowered chatbot designed to provide personalized product suggestions and gather real-time consumer insights. Over several weeks, students collaborated with KIND coaches to create fullscale business pitches—from concept to execution—aimed at driving innovation and brand growth. They then refined their ideas before presenting them to a panel of KIND executives.

Since 2021, the annual case study challenge has invited students from across disciplines to tackle real-world business problems while developing creative, resultsdriven strategies.

FAMU Libraries Launches Free Online Tool to Boost Academic Success and Grad School Prep

Florida A&M University has launched PrepSTEP, a free, self-paced online platform designed to help students perform better academically, prepare for graduate school entrance exams and explore career pathways.

Available 24/7 through FAMU Libraries, PrepSTEP provides access to interactive tutorials, full-length practice exams, and career development resources. The platform supports students at every stage of their academic journey—from first-year undergraduates to graduating seniors.

“The University Libraries is pleased to provide all FAMU students with access to PrepSTEP,” said Faye Watkins, dean of University Libraries. “This platform offers practice tests and preparation tools that can help students boost their exam scores and overall academic performance.”

The event was hosted by Kameron Gomez, a proud FAMU School of Business and Industry (SBI) graduate who said she once stood in the same position as this year’s competitors.

Two additional FAMU teams impressed the judges with their creativity and execution:

Thee Hilltop Queens Cordaia Clark, Nyla Stevenson and Janae White proposed a strategic partnership with 8451, a leading data firm, to predict shopper behavior and improve business outcomes. Their plan also included the launch of a KIND Dessert Line tailored to global market preferences and a co-branding collaboration with Crumbl Cookies.

KIND Kapitalists Amir Thomas, Zoie Rae Robinson, and Imani Norris introduced “KIND’s Chocolate Dipped Energy Clusters,” a fusion of existing KIND products tailored for college students seeking convenient, energy-boosting snacks. Their concept also proposed large-scale manufacturing optimization through IBM Maximo.

FAMU Awarded $399K NSF Grant to Advance Motivational Science and Student Success

FAMU has been awarded a $399,971 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support research titled Advancing Theory in Motivational Science by Testing Spheres of Connectedness. The three-year project runs from Sept. 1, 2025, to Aug. 31, 2028, and focuses on improving college students’ academic performance and behavioral health to improve retention and long-term success.

The study, led by Huijun Li, Ph.D., professor of psychology, will examine how social connectedness and behavioral health intersect to shape student outcomes. As part of the project, researchers will launch Boldly RISE (Retain. Inspire. Student Excellence), a new intervention

program to be integrated into FAMU’s first-year transition course.

“Freshman year is a critical period in higher education, yet nearly one in three college students do not return for their sophomore year,” Li said.

“This grant will provide our team with an unprecedented opportunity to conduct applied psychological research while contributing to FAMU’s strategic plan to elevate student success outcomes, address workforce demands and provide public service.”

The Boldly RISE project aims to foster healthier, civically engaged learning environments that prepare students to meet workforce and community needs.

FAMU Career & Internship Expo Sets New Record

Thousands of students checked in at Florida A&M University’s Fall 2025 Career and Internship Expo at the Al Lawson Multipurpose Center, where participants marked a 4.2% increase over last year’s record turnout. Lines wrapped around the facility as eager students waited for their chance to connect with leading employers and explore career opportunities.

The annual Career and Internship Expo provides employers from around the world an opportunity to partner with FAMU and connect with its top talent. This year, about 150 employers participated, representing a wide range of industries from finance and technology to healthcare and media.

Returning employers included Raymond James Financial, Nike, Eli Lilly and Estée

FAMU Professor Named Royal Aeronautical Society Fellow

Farrukh Alvi, Ph.D., Don Fuqua eminent scholar and professor of mechanical engineering and senior associate provost for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, has been named a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS)—one of the highest honors in the aerospace community.

The fellowship recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the aerospace and aviation industries. For Alvi, the distinction reflects more than three decades of pioneering research, student mentorship, and

institutional leadership at Florida State University.

Alvi’s journey into aerospace began without a grand plan. Initially drawn to nuclear engineering because “it sounded so cool,” he discovered a fascination for fluid mechanics during his mechanical engineering coursework. That curiosity led him to a supersonic wind tunnel in graduate school, where the visual beauty of high-speed flows sparked a lifelong passion for aerospace—a passion that continues to shape his work today.

Lauder.

Among the many success stories was Sidney Berry, a spring 2024 FAMU graduate now representing Bloomberg L.P., a global leader in financial data, technology and media. Berry secured her internship through the career expo and now serves on Bloomberg’s college recruitment team.

The momentum from the expo extended beyond the main event. The Thursday after the expo, several companies requested oncampus space to conduct interviews with standout students they met during the fair. In total, about 27 students participated in these employer-requested interviews, reflecting the event’s lasting impact and the caliber of FAMU’s talent.

FAMU Alumnus Torey Alston Named Broward College President

By Alonda Thomas, Ph.D.

In September 2025, on the 66th anniversary of its founding, Broward College commemorated the Investiture of Florida A&M University alumnus Torey Alston as its 8th president.

FAMU President Marva B. Johnson, J.D., brought greetings from the Highest of Seven Hills during Alston’s investiture service and expressed her enthusiasm to partner on FAMU’s 2+2 articulation agreement and the FAMU Ignite Transfer Program. These initiatives afford Broward students a clear pathway into FAMU programs in engineering, business, animal science, psychology, public relations and more.

“Together, we are building what I like to call the ‘Venom Track’—a pathway for students to follow in President Alston’s footsteps, from Broward to FAMU to leadership in every field imaginable,” said Johnson. “With a Rattler now leading Broward College, that bridge grows even stronger.”

As a FAMU student, it was clear Alston was destined for leadership. He was recognized as the Most Influential Male Student, led the Student National Alumni Association, served as a member of Alpha Xi chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and worked with the Tallahassee branch of the NAACP. He gave a voice to his peers, as class president and senator, meeting with state leaders and speaking truth to power.

At age 25, Alston became one of the youngest members of the FAMU Board of Trustees and served faithfully for nearly six years. He served as the chair of the Governance and Student/Academic Affairs committees, overseeing direct support organizations, passage rates, licensure rates and enrollment management.

New Faces

NEW PLACES

Please join Florida A&M University in welcoming these individuals to their new roles.

Marcus H. Burgess, Ed.D. SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF ENTERPRISE PARTNERSHIPS & INNOVATION

Kimberly Mask ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

Michelle Robinson VICE PRESIDENT OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

James F. Davis VICE PRESIDENT AND DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS

Virginia McMath, Ed.D. DIRECTOR OF THE CENTER FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS

Ramdeo A. Seepaul, Ph.D.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BROOKSVILLE AGRICULTURAL & ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH STATION (BAERS)

Marvin Green, Jr. MAJOR GIFT OFFICER FOR ATHLETICS

Nichole Murry ACTING CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Angela Suggs SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT AND ADVISOR FOR INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS

Kelvin Lawson

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

Donald E. Palm, III, Ph.D. EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT FOR HEALTH SCIENCES ENTERPRISE AND RESEARCH INNOVATION

Brandi Tatum-Fedrick, Ed.D. ACTING VICE PRESIDENT OF UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT

A Tribute FALLEN RATTLERS to

FROM MARCH 2025 – OCTOBER 2025

March 2025

Patricia Diane King

Clinita Ford

April 2025

Tamar Thompson

May 2025

Vera Louise Parnell-Holsey

Charles Alvin Wright

Willie “Billy” Norman Graham

Carol Elaine Deering

June 2025

Sheri Mitchell-Smith

Jacquelyn Pemberton

Monica Cecile Fish

Ronald Eugene Snell

Annette Pinkston Thorpe

Linn Ann Jones Griffin

Willie Mae Leonard

July 2025

Willie Lee Roberts

Dollie Mae Lewis Franklin

Michael Lorenzo Roberts

Sabrina Cromer Sanchez

Barbara Ann Jones

Ethel B. McNeil

Derek Devon Bellamy

August 2025

Michael Albert “Mickey” Clayton

Samuel Lee Coleman

Brenda Jean Tyson

Doris Hudson Joseph

Richard Sermon

Mary Warren Roberts

Carolyn Rose Skinner Hiers

Leesther Thomas, Ph.D.

Osiefield Anderson, Ph.D.

James Lamar Gant

September 2025

Bishop Joseph Wayne Henderson

Trooper Craig A. Gaines

October 2025

Johnny Lee McCaskill, Sr.

Shirley Smith Garrett

David Swain

Charles Prince Pelham, Jr.

Emmanuel S. Agboola

Kahri Willcot

Nathan Brooks, Ph.D. Ph.D., ’04 Electrical Engineering Senior Technical Fellow at Boeing

Rattler Engineers Advance Future Flight

FAMU’s engineering school—the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering—is the nation’s only joint engineering college, ranked #56 among public doctoral programs (USNWR 2025) Rattler Engineers leverage this unique experience into high-tech leadership roles, inspiring innovation and driving global change. FAMU transforms students into successful Rattlers—engineering enables them to change the world.

eng.famu.fsu.edu | famu.edu/engineer | @famufsucoe