Greetings Rattlers,
Welcome to another exciting edition of the FAMU Forward Newsletter, a publication focused on the outstanding achievements of our students and faculty on the “Hill” and our magnificent alumni around the world.
I’d like to extend a special welcome to all Rattlers attending this week’s National Alumni Association Annual Convention in Tampa, Fla. Your support and devotion to Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University is indeed appreciated and is representative of the passion that has made a significant impact on the advancement of FAMU.
As alumni and supporters of FAMU, it is imperative that you share our rich history with prospective students whenever possible and I am positive that the convention will arm you with additional tools and ideas to accomplish this. You are our greatest recruiters and remain irreplaceable members of the FAMU dynasty. I look forward to meeting and speaking with many of you personally during the convention, in an effort to help spread a little “FAMU Spirit” along the way. Please take full advantage of this opportunity to refuel your Rattler energy during the convention and discover new ways to contribute to FAMU’s growing legacy of excellence.
I also extend a special thank you to the pioneers of the 1956 Tallahassee Bus Boycott. As we commemorate the 60th Anniversary of this iconic moment, FAMU and the City of Tallahassee will honor those who played significant roles in this signature moment of the Tallahassee Civil Rights Movement. The University will host the Dr. Charles U. Smith Panel Discussions on May 26 in our Grand Ballroom. During the panel, an in-depth discussion will take place about that historic day in 1956 when FAMU students Wilhelmina Jakes and Carrie Patterson decided to sit in the “whites only” section of a segregated bus. The panel will also share insight on the days following when then-FAMU Student Government Association President Col. Brodes Hartley gathered the student body and urged them to refrain from using the Tallahassee Public Bus System. The heroic efforts of the students, faculty and staff involved in the boycott, continues to serve as a shining example of the extraordinary leadership which symbolizes FAMU.
In closing, and as the nation commemorates Memorial Day 2016, FAMU honors the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. We are forever indebted to their efforts which have enabled us to practice the freedom and rights enjoyed by all American citizens today.
I remain grateful for the support that so many of you continuously provide our great University. And through our collaborative efforts, we will ensure FAMU continues its march toward higher levels of excellence for future generations to enjoy.
Thank you and keep striking Rattlers!
