Putting the needs of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University’s (FAMU) students first was the key point of a message from Student Government Association President Justin Bruno during a recent 220 Quarterback Club Luncheon.
The quarterback club is composed of FAMU alumni and supporters and has contributed more than $70,000 to the University since its inception seven years ago, primarily to assist the athletics department, Members recognized Bruno for his dedicated leadership.
During the luncheon, Eddie Jackson, a retired FAMU Vice President of University Relations, and president of the group, presented Bruno with the 220 Quarterback Club Rattler Spirit Award.
“I’ve been observing him (Bruno) for over the past few years and some of the challenges that have come before him, and he has been just an outstanding young man,” Jackson said.
Ironically, Bruno, a fourth year computer engineering student and graduate of Jones High School in Orlando, shared that FAMU was not on his original list of prospective colleges.
“It took the members of this University in the recruitment and admissions office who exemplified that FAMU spirit,” Bruno said. “They showed me that there was more than you could see from the outside at this beautiful university.”
After his initial election in February 2016, a dispute caused a delay that resulted in him taking office just last month, nearly a year at the election. In spite of the challenges that Bruno faced, the ambitious student leader says he will always remain a Rattler in spirit who gives back to the University because of his ability to see beyond what he endured.
“A lot of people would have turned their back after that experience, but I realized that the way I was treated during that period of time is not a representation of the love FAMU has for its students. So, that’s why I still endeavor to help the university,” he said.
Ensuring the University maintains stable leadership and provides quality customer service are among Bruno’s priorities as SGA president and a member of the University’s Board of Trustees.
Prior to concluding his message to the members of the 220 Quarterback Club, Bruno said his first priority is to serve the student body like he promised he would during his campaign.
“You have all made contributions and donations to athletics, the music department, and to FAMU in general. But we have to make sure that those donations mean something for students who want to be at this University,” Bruno said. That is what I’m committed to doing a lot more of over the next four months,” he added.
