By: Gayle Andrews
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University’s (FAMU) key leaders and patrons unified to ensure a bright future for the nation’s leading historically Black university recently.
On August 27, 400 of the faithful filled the Grand Ballroom to capacity paying tribute to the institution’s past, present, and interim presidents at the Legacy Banquet sponsored by the Bethel Empowerment Foundation of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. University stakeholders paid $100 a ticket to attend the event with proceeds directed to benefit FAMU athletics. The celebration was a welcomed event, and it also provided an opportunity to further strengthen the working relationship between President Elmira Mangum and Board of Trustees Chairman Rufus Montgomery.
Earlier that day, the Reverend R.B. Holmes Jr., pastor of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church and former FAMU Trustee, brought Mangum and Montgomery together in a press availability. They were joined by the presidents and clergy in a unified commitment to the FAMU legacy of excellence.
As a highlight of the event, President Mangum announced the appointment of former Interim President Larry Robinson, Ph.D., to chair the strategic planning committee that will provide the road map for the University’s development in the future. Montgomery also discussed his plans for a BOT strategic plan. The message was clear, however, that all would work toward what was in the best interest of FAMU.
At the banquet, each past president discussed their passion for the University, and their unique relationship and legacy. The leaders also offered advice that was laced with humor and a warning.
Former President Frederick Humphries, Ph.D., responsible for ushering in what is considered FAMU’s golden years, received rousing applause for his comments and discussion of the University’s legacy. Humphries also described how he coined the famous “Rattler Charge,” after which the audience chanted it with him.
“There is no question FAMU is a special place. Anyone inheriting the mantle must understand the legacy of Florida A&M University,” he said. President Mangum meanwhile praised that legacy and re-emphasized her plans to move the University forward.
Honorees:
Walter Smith, Ph.D. 1977-1985
Frederick Humphries, Ph.D. 1985-2001
Henry Lewis, Ph.D. (interim president) January 2002-June 2002
Fred Gainous, Ed.D. 2002-2004
Castell Bryant, Ed.D. (interim president) January 2005-May 2007
James Ammons, Ph.D. July 2007-July 2012
Larry Robinson, Ph.D. ( interim president) July 2012-March 2014
Elmira Mangum, Ph.D. April 2014-present
