Hello Rattlers,
Welcome to another issue of FAMU Forward where we share the great achievements of our students, faculty, staff and alumni. In recent weeks, we have hosted a long list of important events on campus that have provided opportunities to showcase the outstanding work taking place at Florida A&M University (FAMU).
First, I want to thank the nearly 2,000 students and families who visited campus during our annual Spring Preview. The event was filled with excitement and energy as the prospective students learned about many opportunities available to them at FAMU. A special thank you to the cadets and staff of the University’s Army ROTC program who served as a great addition to the “Military Appreciation Day” atmosphere.
In March, we paid tribute to several members of the University family during the second annual Legacy Banquet. The event, which is chaired by Tallahassee pastor and former FAMU trustee Rev. R.B. Holmes, Jr., was organized to help raise funds for FAMU Athletics. It is another example of what can be accomplished when Rattlers come together for a common cause.
More recently, on April 8 we honored a truly legendary Rattler, Althea Gibson by unveiling a marker that will forever serve as a reminder of her legacy here at FAMU and beyond.
Although the world knows of her accomplishments in tournaments such as Wimbledon, the U.S. Open and the French Open, in Newark, New Jersey, she is heralded for the work she did long after her championships were secured. A bronze statue of Gibson delivering one of her famous backhand strokes stands near a group of tennis courts in Newark where she ran clinics for young players in her later years. For the youth of Newark, her willingness to give back and share what she learned is a highly impactful segment of her legacy that is left to cherish most. We would all do well to remember and practice such a genuine example that Gibson left behind.
I also extend congratulations to the members of our Honda Campus All-Star Challenge Team and Coach Vivian Hobbs, Ph.D. on another outstanding performance. I was honored to have an opportunity to watch and cheer you on during the tournament in California last week.
As we focus on FAMU’s future, please know that as University supporters, you are among our most precious and effective recruiters. It is imperative that we continue to ensure America’s most talented students desire to call FAMU home. I commend each of you for understanding the importance of informing and encouraging students to earn a college degree.
The best days for our shining light on the “Hill” are yet to come, thanks to the tireless efforts and dedication of Rattlers like each of you. Let’s keep striking together for the betterment of FAMU!
