Greetings, Rattlers: Welcome to the summer edition of the award-winning A&M Magazine. As a 2004 graduate of the School of Journalism & Graphic Communication, I know firsthand the value of a FAMU education. Not only did I have access to stellar educators and innovative programs, but also I was surrounded by a support system of Rattlers who inspired me to pursue my dreams no matter the odds against me. In this issue, we highlight students who also benefited from that inspiration, such as our “Million-Dollar Scholar” Emmanuel Blake Dawson, NASA-bound scientist Erica Morgan West and our outgoing servicedriven Mister and Miss FAMU, Randall L. Griffin and Amberly R. Williams. These Rattlers tell the story of how the FAMU network inspired them to break barriers, serve others and reach for the stars. And just like our students, in this issue, our alumni proclaim how FAMU transformed and shaped them into the leaders and trailblazers they are today. Alumna Mitzi Miller, who was recently inducted into the College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities’ Gallery of Distinction, reveals in “Defining Distinction” how FAMU gave her the platform to become a media maven. She believes the skills she gained helped her launch into a career that boasts her serving as the editor-in-chief for both EBONY and JET magazines, as well as her new role as the head of development at Rainforest Entertainment alongside fellow Rattler Rob Hardy. In the story “Project Grad,” alumnus Gary Black discusses how the financial support he received in college inspired him to donate to the University’s scholarship fund that helps students in need cover the cost of fees to ensure on-time graduation. These are just a few examples of the stories you will find on the pages of this issue, which offer a deeper glimpse into how the FAMU network is making a difference. And speaking of making a difference, our faculty are continuing to provide solutions to the world’s most crucial needs, from cancer research to improving our water quality. The summer installment of “Faces of FAMU” highlights some of these influential innovators. Another difference-maker showcased in this issue is a partner organization. In the story “Investing in Champions,” we explore how a grant from the NCAA is helping our student-athletes excel in the classroom and on the field. As you can see, the stories you will find in this issue all have one thing in common. All of the featured people, programs and organizations in some shape or form play a unique role in advancing FAMU’s mission and helping us to realize our vision, making them all “Keepers of the Flame.” Enjoy! With Rattler Pride,
Kanya Stewart Executive Editor LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The A&M Magazine welcomes letters to the editor about stories in its issues. We reserve the right to edit emails and letters for clarity or space. Emails may be sent to: communications@famu.edu or letters may be mailed to the Office of Communications, Florida A&M University, 1601 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Suite 200 Lee Hall, Tallahassee, Florida 32307-3100. A&M MAGAZINE // SPRING 2017 // 5