The fulfillment of purpose was a key message during the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) Spring 2016 Commencement Ceremonies on April 30.
During two ceremonies at the Al Lawson Center on campus, inspiring words were delivered to more than 1,200 graduates. Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam and U.S. Department of Education Secretary, John B. King, Jr. Ed. D. delivered the keynote addresses.
While speaking during the morning ceremony, King reminded the graduates of their initial decision to attend FAMU and of the connection they now have to the strong tradition of excellence at the University.
“With your pick of schools, why did you choose FAMU? It wasn’t just the rigorous academics or the athletics. Your search for purpose brought you to this storied place and your FAMU education has given you the tools to make a difference,” King said.
Enthusiastic cheers and tears of joy from family members and graduates alike were widespread during the two ceremonies. A few pleasant surprises for the graduates and guests increased the level of excitement. In honor of the legendary entertainer Prince, President Elmira Mangum, Ph.D. initiated a special tribute to the musical icon by the University Symphonic band during both ceremonies. The band was accompanied by FAMU alumnus B.K. Jackson, a former saxophonist in Prince’s band. As the band played, a video of the Marching “100” performing with Prince during halftime at the 2007 Super Bowl was displayed on the arena’s jumbotron. During the afternoon ceremony, President Mangum eagerly acknowledged the presence of Martin Luther King III who was present with his family, much to the delight of the audience.
Taj Morgan, a doctor of pharmacy graduate from West Palm Beach, Fla., who has obtained a position as a Publix pharmacist, said attending FAMU was one of the best decisions he ever made.
“My time here has been absolutely amazing and my best memories will always reflect on my fellow classmates, the lectures, studying, getting ready for our assignments and presentations and the bond that we all made together,” Morgan said.
Laneicia Gomez, a fellow graduate from Century, Fla. who earned a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering plans to share her new skills and knowledge with young residents in her hometown.
“I plan on starting a community resource center because it would be great for the students to have somewhere to go to play sports, receive tutoring or participate in some type of mentoring program to help them better themselves,” Gomez said. My experience here at FAMU has been great. From the moment I got here I felt I was part of a family. I met great teachers and they challenged me, but I was able to do the work and have learned a great deal,” she added.
During his commencement address, Putnam discussed the meaning of earning a degree and its recognition of the hard work and sacrifices graduates and families endured throughout their collegiate educational journey.
“Perhaps the student loans that you had to take out to make this possible. The second job, the third job, that you took on, or your family members took on, for you to be here. This diploma holds a time capsule of memories. It’s the golden ticket, it’s the reward for all that you have done to earn it, and only you can decide how you use it,” Putnam said.
King had a similar message for the graduates by challenging them to make their mark on society.
“Everyone receiving a degree today has their own personal story, how they got here and what it took. But today we share this triumph together. Together you will graduate with purpose, and the world needs you,” King said.