FAMU Appoints New Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management

April 7, 2014, 9:00 pm

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Florida A&M University (FAMU) has appointed Nigel Edwards as the Division of Student Affairs’ associate vice president for enrollment management. His appointment was effective March 21.

Edwards comes to FAMU with more than 18 years of professional experience in higher education. He most recently served as the associate vice president of enrollment management and director of financial aid at Clark Atlanta University. Prior to that, Edwards served in administrative capacities at Morgan State University and C.W. Post University as director of financial aid, respectively. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in political science from Binghamton University, a top-rated research institution, and a master’s degree in information systems from American University.

“Nigel Edwards is a welcomed addition to the FAMU family,” said William Hudson Jr., Ph.D., vice president of Student Affairs. “He brings a wealth of knowledge to enrollment management. His appointment is another step in the right direction to improve business processes and ensure accountability.”

In his previous appointments, Edwards, who said he believes in fostering collaborative relationships among all departments within the university, has garnered a reputation for his ability to consistently increase the efficiency and effectiveness of enrollment and financial services. Some of his accomplishments include: achieving clean audits, lowering cohort default rates, improving retention and attrition rates, successfully identifying at risk students, promoting intrusive academic advisement programs and improving customer service initiatives. He plans to effect similar changes at FAMU.

As the head of FAMU’s enrollment management program, Edwards is also tasked with ensuring the continuance and expansion of the Office of Enrollment Management’s mission to establish positive working relationships with secondary schools and community colleges in order to bring awareness to the diverse program offerings at the university. Edward’s office serves as the first point of contact for prospective and new students, which includes providing information, recruiting, orientating and supporting students through their first classes at the university.

“I came to FAMU because I’m looking for an opportunity to affect our current and future students in a positive manner,” said Edwards, an active member of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators. “I plan to do the best job I can to help reestablish the legacy and heritage of FAMU through my work in the enrollment process.”

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FAMU Appoints College and Pro Football Hall of Famer Kellen Winslow New Athletic Director

April 8, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Activists Come FAMU to Confront Issues Facing the Black Community

≪ Previous: FAMU Appoints New Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management

Florida A&M University (FAMU) has named College and Pro Football Hall of Famer Kellen Winslow as the university’s new athletic director. FAMU President Elmira Mangum, Ph.D., made the announcement today. Winslow will begin work in his new role starting May 15.

“Kellen Winslow brings a track record of success, positive energy and a wealth of experience to FAMU,” said Mangum. “We’ve had several conversations about taking our athletics program to the next level, and I look forward to working closely with him to develop outstanding student athletes and a championship-caliber environment,” added Mangum, who stated that further strengthening athletics is among her top priorities since recently becoming the 11th president of FAMU.

Winslow attended the University of Missouri on a football scholarship in 1975. In 1978, he was named Big Eight Player of the Year for his academic and athletic achievements and earned consensus All-American honors. He was the 13th player selected in the first round of the 1979 NFL draft by the San Diego Chargers. Winslow enjoyed a prolific nine-year career with the Chargers, earning All-Pro honors five times and setting both team and league records that stand to this day.

Winslow previously served as the executive director of the Fritz Pollard Alliance, an affinity group comprised of minority members of the National Football League front office, coaching and scouting personnel. Most recently, he was director of planning and new business development at Disney’s Wide World of Sports.

“This is a tremendous opportunity and I look forward to working with Dr. Mangum, university leadership and the student-athletes themselves to build upon and honor FAMU’s great tradition, both on the field and in the classroom,” said Winslow.

Additionally, Mangum announced the creation of the President’s Alumni Advisory Board on Athletics (PAABA). This group of hand-selected alumni will serve as a liaison between the president and the athletic director to provide strategic counsel and guidance on various matters pertaining to the general function and development of all FAMU Athletic Department programs. The board will be chaired by Lt. Col. Gregory L. Clark, who also serves as the FAMU National Alumni Association’s first vice-president and is a former student athlete from the three-time Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) champion Rattler baseball team.

“The President’s Alumni Advisory Committee on Athletics is comprised of former student-athletes and business leaders who will serve as an advisement arm to ensure that FAMU’s athletics program receives the attention and resources necessary to nurture an enriching environment for success,” said Clark.

Mangum said she is confident that this leadership combination will start the process of moving the program to championship-caliber status.

“We are building a dream team of staff, coaches, students and alumni that will one day become the model of academic and athletic collaboration,” said Mangum.

About Kellen Winslow

Kellen Winslow is said to be the player who defined the tight end position for the rest of professional football to follow. He is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1995; member of the NFL All-Time Team, celebrating 75 years of NFL history; All-Pro, Consensus Collegiate All-American and member of the College Football Hall of Fame, Class of 2002.

Winslow was born November 5, 1957 in East St. Louis, Ill.. He began playing football during his senior year at East St. Louis Senior High School.

Winslow attended the University of Missouri on a football scholarship in 1975. In 1978, he was named Big Eight Player of the Year for his academic and athletic achievements and earned consensus All-American honors. He was the 13th player selected in the first round of the 1979 NFL draft by the San Diego Chargers. Winslow enjoyed a prolific nine-year career with the Chargers, earning All-Pro honors five times and setting both team and league records that stand to this day.

Winslow previously served as the executive director of the Fritz Pollard Alliance, an affinity group comprised of minority members of the National Football League front office, coaching and scouting personnel. Most recently, he was director of planning and new business development at Disney’s Wide World of Sports.

A firm believer in that academics and athletics go hand-in-hand, Winslow graduated from the University of Missouri receiving a bachelor of educational Science in counseling psychology. He returned to school after his football career and earned his juris doctorate from the University of San Diego School of Law in 1993.

Winslow continues to parallel his athletic accomplishments with a successful career in the media. He currently serves as an analyst for Fox Sports Net College Football Saturday Studio Show. In past years, Winslow has provided color commentary for NFL broadcasts on CBS Radio, ESPN college football and for University of Missouri football.

Winslow has appeared on ABC’s Nightline, ESPN, Fox Sports and Politically Incorrect among others. He is often called upon to discuss social, political, economic, diversity and racial issues relating to sports.

About the FAMU Athletics Advisory Committee

Gregory L. Clark
Lt. Col. Gregory L. Clark has been a financial advisor for more than 17 years and founded AUREUS Financial Management in February 2008. Clark was featured in the January 2000 edition of Ebony Magazine, in which Ebony highlighted the top careers for African Americans in the new millennium. He was also featured in the September 13, 2004 issue of Newsweek Magazine. Clark earned a bachelor of science in Business Economics from FAMU while a member of the three-time Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Champion Rattler Baseball Team.

Albert Chester, Sr.
Albert Chester, Sr. served as the quarterback for the FAMU football team from 1975-1978, earning Most Valuable Player honors three times while accounting for more than 3,600 total yards offensively and 43 touchdowns. As a junior, he led the Rattlers to the nation’s only unbeaten record in any division in 1977, as the team finished 11-0-0. In 1978, the Rattlers won the first ever 1-AA national title with a 35-28 win over the University of Massachusetts. Chester currently serves as an investigator with the United States Navy.

Jemal Gibson
Jemal Gibson graduated with honors from the FAMU School of Business and Industry (SBI) in 1993. After graduation, he served as an infantry officer in the United States Army. Gibson graduated in the top 10 percent of his Infantry Officer Basic Course and also completed the elite U.S. Army Ranger and Airborne Schools. He has spent the last 19 years in the pharmaceutical industry with companies like Pfizer, Parke-Davis and AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals where he has managed billions of dollars in sales and received numerous accolades and awards.

Ray Matthews, Sr.
Ray Matthews, Sr. is a member of the Visit Tampa Bay Sports Commission, where he is involved in bringing various high profile events to the area. Among the events are the Super Bowl, NCAA Men and Women Regional Basketball Tournaments. An alumnus of FAMU, Matthews has served as a member of the FAMU Booster Club- Fang Level and as president of the West Coast Rattlers Booster Club.

Sonia Jackson Myles
Sonia Jackson Myles is president and founder of the Sister Accord Foundation. She began her professional corporate career as a buyer in Dearborn, Mich., with Ford Motor Company. Previously, Myles served as director of Global Packaging Purchases at Procter & Gamble, where she managed a $6 billion budget. In 2008, Myles was named one of Essence Magazine’s “25 Women of Power” and was selected as a Bloomberg History Maker. In 2011, Myles was named one of Black Enterprise Magazine’s “Top Executives in Marketing and Advertising.” In 2012, she was named one of Florida A&M University’s “125 Outstanding Alumni” in celebration of the University’s 125th anniversary.

Nelson E. Townsend
Nelson E. Townsend is a retired administrator with more than 30 years of experience, who served two terms as athletic director of Florida A&M University. In addition to his service to FAMU, Townsend also served as athletic director at Maryland Eastern Shore University and the University of Buffalo for 12 years. While at the University of Buffalo, he successfully moved the program from NCAA Division III to Division I in three and a half years. Townsend has been a leader in sports and education administration at the state, national and international levels.

Natalie White
Natalie White is an alumna of FAMU, where she started on the women’s basketball team. Affectionately known as the “Pocketbook” for her record breaking number of steals as a player from 1991-1995. White was inducted into the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Hall of Fame in 2010. The three-time All-MEAC honoree guided the Rattlerettes to two regular season conference titles and the 1995 MEAC Championship. White led the NCAA in steals for three of her four seasons and continues to hold the NCAA Division I record with 624 career steals. White currently serves as the director of Ticket Sales and Service for the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream.

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Activists Come FAMU to Confront Issues Facing the Black Community

April 9, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMU Professor Gale Workman Honored for International Work in Writing Education

≪ Previous: FAMU Appoints College and Pro Football Hall of Famer Kellen Winslow New Athletic Director

The Florida A&M University (FAMU) Student Government Association, in conjunction with Falling Black in Love and a host of student organizations and university departments, will host the fifth annual Falling Black In Love Conference from Saturday, April 12 through Friday, April 18.

The conference’s mission is to uplift, motivate and unify the black community and bring awareness to such issues as civic responsibility, health and wellness and supporting black-owned businesses.

The conference will feature presenters and speakers from around the nation, including: actress Tika Sumpter (“Sparkle,” “Ride Along“ and “The Haves and Have Nots”); the family of Oscar Grant, the Oakland, Calif. native whose life and tragic death is recounted in the Sundance award-winning film “Fruitvale Station;” AIDS activist Rae Lewis-Thornton and FAMU alumna and celebrity publicist Arian Simone.

On April 12, the FAMU Chapter of the Collegiate 100 will present “100 Ways to Please a Woman” at the Southside Arts Complex at 2 p.m. This etiquette seminar will teach men how to treat, respect and appreciate women. FAMU alumnus and author Enitan Bereola II will be the keynote speaker. Bereola is the author of "BEREOLAESQUE: The Contemporary Gentleman & Etiquette Book for the Urban Sophisticate" and “Gentlewoman: Etiquette for a Lady, from a Gentleman.

On April 14, at 7 p.m., there will be a private screening of “Fruitvale Station” in the FAMU Grand Ballroom. This screening is themed: “Where Do We Go From Here?,” and will include a panel discussion on community action, police brutality and civil responsibility. The panel will feature the Grant family, the Tallahassee chapter of the Dream Defenders and representatives from the FAMU Police Department.

On April 15, at 7 p.m., “Blowing off STEAM: Dispelling Stereotypes through Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics” will be held at the FAMU Grand Ballroom.

Blowing off S.T.E.A.M. combines the arts and sciences and allows FAMU students to come together to showcase their talents and learn about research opportunities from various fields across the arts and STEM fields. FAMU faculty members will present on the topics of “The Physics of Movement” and “The Science of Music.”

On April 16, “Health, Yes!,” will be presented in honor of the late Kristopher Gibson, a FAMU alumnus, and will include a bone marrow drive on April 16 at the Hansel E. Tookes, Sr. Student Recreation Center from 5-9 p.m. The mission of the drive is to bring awareness to the importance of bone marrow donations in the black community. “Health, Yes!” will also include YOGA 100, an initiative to engage 100 men and women in the practice of yoga. It will also feature a natural hair forum.

On April 17, the Minority Alliance Advocating Community Action (MAACA) will co-sponsor “The Original Scandal: Rae Lewis-Thornton and the Impact of AIDS 20 Years Later” in the FAMU Grand Ballroom at 7 p.m. Thornton, an HIV/AIDS activist, author and entrepreneur, will discuss the impact of HIV and AIDS in the black community. Her presentation marks 20 years since she shocked the world by appearing on the cover of ESSENCE Magazine revealing that she was HIV positive and living with AIDS.

The conference will conclude on April 18 with the “The Return of the Soul Bowl: A Student-Owned Business Exposition” at 11 a.m. on the FAMU Set and “Does Pretty Hurt?,” a panel discussion hosted by Simone’s FEARLESS Movement at 7 p.m.

The panel will include a discussion on the price of beauty and colorism within the black community. Panel guests include: Sumpter; psychology expert and FEARLESS editor Jenay Sermon; beauty consultant Ashia Everett and make-up artist Siteria Gregory. The discussion will be streamed live on FAMCast. Several beauty and cosmetics companies will also attend, including the The Lip Bar, a lipstick company owned by FAMU alumna Melissa Butler, Nuekie, Inc. and Victoria’s Secret.

For more information contact Secret Hunter at (713) 259-2809 or s.hunter0718@gmail.com.

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FAMU Professor Gale Workman Honored for International Work in Writing Education

April 9, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMU Summer Camps to Train Future Leaders and Future Rattlers

≪ Previous: Activists Come FAMU to Confront Issues Facing the Black Community

Twenty-five is a special number for Florida A&M University (FAMU) professor Gale Workman, Ph.D. It is not only the number of years she has been teaching at FAMU’s School of Journalism & Graphic Communication, it’s also the number of women she was honored among during the “25 Women You Need to Know” ceremony hosted by the Tallahassee Democrat.

The April 7 event highlighted North Florida’s most influential women and was held at the Florida State University (FSU) Alumni Center Ballroom. Workman was selected for the honor out of more than 100 nominees.

Workman, who says teaching at FAMU has provided her with the “perfect platform for making a difference,” was recognized for her continued efforts to teach children, college students and adults the art of writing.

Her influence reaches beyond Florida’s borders. She recently journeyed to Lisbon, Portugal to present at the World Universities Forum.

Workman was one of only 111 scholars selected from 28 countries to attend the Forum at the University of Lisbon. During her workshop, “Citizen Journalists Defend Democracy: How to Report News Using Digital Devices,” Workman taught an international audience about effective citizen journalism and how to create concise, precise and informative video news reports shot with a mobile phone or tablet.

“I'm thrilled to be recognized by my community,” said Workman. “It gives me the opportunity to shine the spotlight on the many innovative educators and watchdog journalists we are blessed to have in Tallahassee.”

Workman, a Fulbright Scholar, earned her Ph.D. in higher education from FSU and her master's and bachelor's degrees in journalism from the University of Florida. She served on the advisory board for the television production program at Lively Technical Center, has been a key member of Leon County Schools’ Partners for Excellence and was named Tallahassee’s “Top Female Communicator” by the Association for Women in Communications. She has been named FAMU’s “Teacher of the Year” twice.

Also honored on the Democrat’s “25 Women You Need to Know” list was FAMU alumna Janeia Daniels Ingram, J.D., a 2001 graduate. Ingram is the assistant dean for Student Affairs at the FSU College of Law and is a member of the Tallahassee Bar Association, the Tallahassee Barristers Association, the Tallahassee Women Lawyers and the Florida Bar. She received the 2005 “Attorney of the Year” award from the Law Related Education Association for her work on The Florida Bar's Standing Committee on Law-Related Education, which she chaired for two terms.

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FAMU Summer Camps to Train Future Leaders and Future Rattlers

April 13, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMU Hosts an Evening with Orlando Magic Business Director Lucas Boyce

≪ Previous: FAMU Professor Gale Workman Honored for International Work in Writing Education

This summer, Florida A&M University (FAMU) will train the next generation of researchers, engineers, architects and visual artists. Students from around the nation are being invited to participate in an array of summer programs designed to stimulate young minds and give them a glimpse into the FAMU experience.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Environmental Cooperative Science Center (ECSC) will be sponsoring the School of the Environment Summer Camp June 9 - 27. The three-week day camp will be held on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is open to eighth through 11th grades. The camp will introduce students to marine and estuarine sciences through hands-on learning opportunities, field trips, seminars with professionals, laboratory experiments, tours of environmental research laboratories and the exploration of diverse ecosystems. Applications are due April 18. To apply, visit www.ecsc.famu.edu and select the School of the Environment Summer Camp option under the “Education/Outreach” tab.

Students ages 12 to 16, who aspire to venture into the field of engineering, are encouraged to apply for the Aspiring Engineers Inspiring to Make A Difference (AEIMD) Summer Program. The program is a week-long summer camp that will introduce teens to fields related to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and will promote the recruitment of minorities into STEM majors upon entering college. Participants will race fuel cars, conduct experiments and partake in a field excursion, where they will be introduced to scientists and engineers. The camp will be held June 9 - 13 and will meet from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. Registration for the program is available until June 9.

FAMU’s School of Architecture will offer a series of week-long day camps June 9 - July 24 for students interested in architecture design and technology. The workshops will be held Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will introduce a new topic weekly. Topics of discussion range from computer modeling, robotics, 3D printing and furniture design. The camp will introduce middle to high school students ages 12 to 18 to architecture, construction and robotics. Interested students may sign up for one week or multiple weeks. Registration deadlines vary based on the student’s week of attendance.

Boys and girls ages 7 to 16 with a passion for the arts are encouraged to register for the Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre Camp scheduled June 9 - July 12. The five-week theatre summer camp has a nearly 20-year history and exposes youth to theatre, music and dance through daily classes, workshops and cultural excursions designed to help them explore and enhance their intellectual and creative talents. The camp will close with a theatrical production on FAMU’s campus showcasing the talents of the participants. Upon completion of the camp, the youth theatre members are able to continue participating with FAMU’s theatre program throughout the year by attending age-appropriate Essential Theatre productions.

According to Valencia Matthews, Ph.D., dean of the College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities and director of Theatre, FAMU’s summer camps are valuable recruitment tools that benefit the university and the students who participate for years to come.

“What is really wonderful about the camps is that they really are a recruiting tool for the university because it allows students, at an early age, to engage with FAMU,” Matthews said. “We’re building an audience in all kinds of ways.”

FAMU’s Division of Continuing Education Director Phyllis Watson said currently there are 18 approved programs that FAMU will offer this summer for students statewide and nationally.

“I believe these early experiences help improve the participants’ academic and social skills and have the potential to cultivate a lifelong relationship for learning at Florida A&M University,” Watson said.

Registration information for the summer camps and a comprehensive list of all of the programs hosted at FAMU during summer 2014 are available online under the “Summer Programs” tab at: http://www.famu.edu/continuinged.

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FAMU Hosts an Evening with Orlando Magic Business Director Lucas Boyce

April 13, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Tom Joyner Foundation Full Ride Scholar Chooses FAMUs Biological Engineering Program Over More Than 100 Colleges and Universities

≪ Previous: FAMU Summer Camps to Train Future Leaders and Future Rattlers

The Florida A&M University (FAMU) Division of Student Affairs will present an evening with Lucas Boyce, Orlando Magic director of business development and legislative affairs, and author of the book, “Living Proof: From Foster Care to the White House and the NBA.” The free community event is scheduled Wednesday, April 16 at 6:30 p.m. in Lee Hall, located at 1601 S. MLK Blvd. Boyce’s presentation is titled, “Life Lessons for Success, Leadership and Character.”

Boyce, was appointed to his role with the Orlando Magic in July 2013. His responsibilities include strategic business planning, with a focus on developing a new sports and entertainment district (SED) in downtown Orlando. He also oversees the company’s efforts in statewide legislative and governmental affairs. Prior to this role, he served as director of community relations, multicultural insights, cause marketing and government affairs. Lucas joined the organization in July 2008.

Prior to working with the Magic, Boyce served at the White House in the Office of Political Affairs where he monitored political activity and tracked key races across the Plains-Southwest region of the United States. He also coordinated proactive communication, public relations and education outreach across diverse communities, constituencies and issues on behalf of the President.

During his tenure, Boyce also served in the Office of Public Liaison, where he directed African-American and professional sports outreach in addition to event-related work in the fields of health care and economic policy. Prior to this, he worked for Direct Impact, a public affairs firm in Alexandria, Va., and served in the Vice President’s Political and Communications Office.

Boyce was appointed by Florida Gov. Rick Scott as a Valencia College trustee in August 2013. Gov. Scott also appointed him to chair the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention State Advisory Group in July 2012. He also serves on the Orange County Library Board, TSA Services Advisory Committee, Central Florida Fairgrounds, the National Coalition for Adoption Institute, Tiger Bay Club of Central Florida and on U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio’s Service Academy Nomination Board.

In 2012, Boyce was honored by the University of Central Missouri Alumni Association as an outstanding recent alumnus. In 2011, the Orlando Business Journal recognized Lucas as the 40 Under 40 “Man of the Year.”

Boyce received his bachelor’s degree in political science and speech communication from the University of Central Missouri and graduated with his master’s in business administration from Rollins College in May 2013.He published “Living Proof” in January 2011, and travels across the country giving speeches focused on leadership, teamwork, overcoming obstacles and making a positive impact on the lives of others.

For more information, contact the FAMU Division of Student Affairs at (850) 599-3183 or visit: www.LucasDanielBoyce.com.

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Tom Joyner Foundation Full Ride Scholar Chooses FAMUs Biological Engineering Program Over More Than 100 Colleges and Universities

April 14, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMU Student Garners National Boxing Title, Feature in Sports Illustrated

≪ Previous: FAMU Hosts an Evening with Orlando Magic Business Director Lucas Boyce

Titus Zeigler, a senior at Atlanta’s Henry W. Grady High School, could have chosen to attend any historically black college or university (HBCU) in the nation – but he chose Florida A&M University (FAMU).

Zeigler is the recipient of the Tom Joyner Foundation’s Full Ride Scholarship, which provides the nation’s top graduating high school seniors with funding to pay for full tuition, on-campus living and books for up to ten semesters at any HBCU of their choice.

To qualify for the Full Ride Scholarship, students must have a minimum 3.5 GPA, a minimum combined SAT score of 2100 or ACT score of 30, and demonstrate leadership through community service and extracurricular activities. Zeigler was selected out of more than 100 applicants and is required to maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA while attending FAMU.

Zeigler, a high scorer on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery Test, plans to study biological engineering upon his arrival at FAMU this fall and aspires to become a trauma surgeon.

He is a battalion commander in Grady’s Junior ROTC program and a member of the National Guard. He volunteers frequently at the local food bank and serves as mentor and tutor for local middle school students.

“I’ve always been interested in FAMU just because so many people in my family had gone,” said Zeigler. “But, when I looked into it, I saw that [FAMU] actually had really good biology and biological engineering programs. I spoke with some students and some professors and I liked what I heard – that’s when I made my decision.”

President Elmira Mangum, Ph.D., welcomed and congratulated Zeigler during this morning’s airing of the Tom Joyner Morning Show, which announced his selection as a Full Ride Scholar and decision to attend FAMU

“We look forward to seeing you on the ‘Hill,’” Mangum said.

Photo: Titus Zeigler with radio personality and philanthropist Tom Joyner and Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed.

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FAMU Student Garners National Boxing Title, Feature in Sports Illustrated

April 14, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMU Hosts Student Symposium on Health Professions on April 25

≪ Previous: Tom Joyner Foundation Full Ride Scholar Chooses FAMUs Biological Engineering Program Over More Than 100 Colleges and Universities

Florida A&M University (FAMU) is the home of the 2014 U.S. Intercollegiate Boxing Association’s heavyweight champion.

FAMU student Willie Ferrell not only took home the championship belt earlier this month, but also defended his title as the 2013 heavyweight champion.

Ferrell’s journey to triumph in the boxing ring is depicted in the April 14 issue of Sports Illustrated, which is available now on newsstands and online.

The multi-page feature in Sports Illustrated also stories Ferrell’s extraordinary relationship with his late brother Jonathan, a former Rattler football player, whose controversial 2013 death has been attributed to alleged racial profiling.

Ferrell’s inspiring story of how his brother, even in death, encouraged him to defend his title is also told in an upcoming issue of FAMU’s A&M magazine.

“I was proud to represent my brother. I was proud that I was able to show the world what FAMU has to offer,” said Ferrell about what it felt like to be handed the championship belt once again.

Photo: A sneak peek of Willie Ferrell's feature in the April 14 edition of Sports Illustrated. Image courtesy: Sports Illustrated.

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FAMU Hosts Student Symposium on Health Professions on April 25

April 21, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: The Building Green Initiative Names FAMU Among Top 10 Greenest HBCUs

≪ Previous: FAMU Student Garners National Boxing Title, Feature in Sports Illustrated

Florida A&M University (FAMU) will host the Student Symposium on Health Professions on April 25 from 1-5 p.m. in the New Pharmacy Building, located at 1415 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. The symposium is sponsored by the Florida Alliance for Health Professionals Diversity (FAHPD) and funded by the Florida Health Equity Research Institute (HERI).

The symposium will provide students with information on how to be competitive in the process of becoming a health professional. Students interested in the health and biomedical professions (e.g., medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, public health, allied health sciences and the biomedical sciences) are encouraged to attend. This is FAMU’s second selection as the event’s host since its 2009 inception.

“It is our pleasure and honor to host the 2014 symposium at FAMU,” said Cynthia Harris, Ph.D., director of FAMU’s Institute of Public Health. “Since 2009, one of the signature programs of the FAHPD has been hosting a student symposium that exposes high school, graduate and pre-professional students to expert advice for success from outstanding health professionals in all fields.”

During the opening session, which starts at 1 p.m., President Elmira Mangum, Ph.D., will welcome attendees. The keynote speaker is Dr. Alma Littles, senior associate dean for Medical Education and Academic Affairs at Florida State University (FSU).

The event will also include three concurrent breakout sessions that focus on different areas of health profession development. Topics include:

· Preparing a Competitive Application and Tips for Success in Health Professional Schools;

· Financing Your Health Professional Education;

· and Strengthen Your Credentials for Health Professional School.

“This is a part of the statewide initiative to increase the number and diversity of health professionals in Florida,” said Michael Smith, Dr.P.H., coordinator of Academic and Medical Scholars Programs at FAMU. “We have been working very diligently to make this symposium an amazing experience for all who attend. This will be the showcase session for those interested in careers in the health professions because we are bringing together the best in the health and health science fields.”

FAMU’s Institute of Public Health, School of Allied Health, School of Nursing, School of the Environment, Medical Scholars Program, Post Baccalaureate Program, along with the departments of Chemistry, Biology and divisions of Physical Therapy, Health Informatics and Information Management will provide educational displays and presentations during the event.

The Student Symposium on Health Professions is a collaborative effort between FAMU, FSU and Tallahassee Community College. Dr. Louis Sullivan, former secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, is the creator of the symposium. The FAHPD is one of several national alliances with the mission of increasing the number of under-represented minorities in the health professions.

“We are very appreciative to Rep. Joseph Gibbons, sponsor of the bill that created HERI, our HERI colleagues, and all of our many statewide supporters and friends, who are passionate about reducing health disparities and increasing the pool of culturally diverse health professionals,” Harris said.

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The Building Green Initiative Names FAMU Among Top 10 Greenest HBCUs

April 21, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMUs Retention Efforts Recognized By US News and World Report

≪ Previous: FAMU Hosts Student Symposium on Health Professions on April 25

A comprehensive survey released on Earth Day by The Building Green Initiative (BGI) at Clark Atlanta University named Florida A&M University (FAMU) as one of the “Top 10 Greenest” historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). BGI stated HBCUs are driving energy efficiency on their campuses and promoting sustainability through their policies, practices and curriculums.

The survey ranked the nation's most eco-friendly HBCUs and found the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University were the top green campuses among public institutions, while Spelman College and Howard University topped the list for private schools, BGI director, Felicia Davis announced today.

"Black colleges are going green," said Davis. "This survey provides a clear picture of the wide-ranging activities underway at HBCUs to generate renewable energy, build to LEED Gold Certification standards and engage students in green initiatives, ecological curriculum and sustainable lifestyles."

According to the survey results, all of the top institutions have signed the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment, created sustainability committees, and are taking steps to reduce campus emissions. FAMU became a signatory in 2013 in an effort to publicly declare its commitment to an environmental leadership role in accord with the institution’s historic mission.

FAMU Environment and Sustainability Council Chairman Richard Gragg, Ph.D., said sustainability and environmental issues have become emphasized across the university’s curriculum, including agriculture, allied and public health sciences, architecture, engineering, business, law and journalism.

“We established the FAMU Environment and Sustainability Council in 2008 to embark upon a comprehensive and integrated approach to institutionalize sustainability and make FAMU a well-recognized green and sustainable campus,” said Gragg. “The big opportunity is to institutionalize sustainability in the context and framework of FAMU’s rich and storied relationship to the environment rooted in its history, its people and community, and its recognition as a pioneering academic institution.”

Rankings were determined by analyzing responses from 43 participating HBCUs in the areas of administration, energy efficiency, green building, recycling, renewable energy generation, food, transportation, purchasing and student involvement.

"We determined that students are getting more involved in the environmental movement on HBCU campuses," said Andrea Harris, president of North Carolina Institute for Minority Economic Development (NCIMED), the company commissioned to analyze the survey. "HBCUs are also using innovative, green technologies to address health, economic and educational challenges in underserved communities."

The participating schools were separated into two ranking categories: public and private institutions. Of the colleges surveyed, the top 10 green HBCUs for 2014 are:

Public

University of Maryland Eastern Shore (Princess Anne, Md.)
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (Tallahassee, Fla.)
Elizabeth City State University (Elizabeth City, N.C.)
North Carolina Agricultural & Technical University (Greensboro, N.C.)
(Three-Way Tie) Morgan State University (Baltimore, Md.), Bowie State University (Bowie, Md.) & Mississippi Valley State University (Itta Bena, Miss.)

Private

Spelman College (Atlanta, Ga.)
Howard University (Washington, DC)
Morehouse College (Atlanta, Ga.)
Livingstone College (Salisbury, N.C.)
(Tie) Claflin University (Orangeburg, S.C.) & Clark Atlanta University (Atlanta, Ga.)

Housed on the campus of Clark Atlanta University, the Building Green Initiative works to increase campus-wide sustainability at minority serving institutions with a strong focus on HBCUs. BGI is an advocate for innovative financing to support green building, energy efficiency retrofits, green revolving loan funds, interdisciplinary approaches to sustainability curriculum and student engagement. NCIMED is an established nonprofit organization with 26 years of experience promoting and contributing data and information as key components of a knowledge-based economy.

For a full report on the findings go to http://buildinggreennetwork.org/?p=1346 or email iask@bellsouth.net

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FAMUs Retention Efforts Recognized By US News and World Report

April 21, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMU College of Law Celebrates Top Passage Rate

≪ Previous: The Building Green Initiative Names FAMU Among Top 10 Greenest HBCUs

Florida A&M University (FAMU) has been listed as one of the top “Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Where Freshmen Return” by U.S. News & World Report.

Announced on April 15, FAMU ranked No. 4 on the “Freshman Return” list with an average freshman retention rate of 79.5 percent.

The “Freshman Return” list reveals the top 10 institutions, out of 68 ranking HBCUs, with the highest average freshman retention rate for first-year students from fall 2008-2011. FAMU exceeded the list’s average freshman retention rate of 63.5 by 16 percent. The rankings are based on the publication’s 2013 survey.

"One of the common challenges HBCU’s and many other institutions face is institutionalizing, in a systematic and sustained manner, initiatives to increase student retention, progression and graduation. This is due in impart to economic disparities," said William Hudson Jr., vice president for Student Affairs. "This top ranking by U.S News & World Report is a crucial testament to FAMU's ability to rise to the occasion, despite the odds, and meet these challenges through its tireless efforts to recruit, retain and graduate the nation's best and brightest students."

U.S. News also names FAMU among the top 10 HBCU's in the nation in its 2014 rankings.

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FAMU College of Law Celebrates Top Passage Rate

April 21, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMU Administrator Wanda Ford Named American Council on Education Fellow

≪ Previous: FAMUs Retention Efforts Recognized By US News and World Report

The FAMU College of Law recently announced that 72.2 percent of its first-time examinees passed the February 2014 Florida Bar Exam. The Florida Bar Exam first-time cumulative pass rate for February 2014 was 72.9 percent. These accomplishments are significant, as FAMU College of Law students exhibited a strong performance on the exam despite a decline in Bar passage rates among Florida’s law schools over the last year. FAMU out-paced five of the 11 Florida law schools, including Barry University, the University of Florida and Nova Southeastern.

"We are very proud of the performance of our first-time exam takers," said LeRoy Pernell, dean of the College of Law. "Our standing among all Florida law schools speaks to the quality of the curriculum and academic support programs available here at the FAMU College of Law.”

Consistent with the accreditation expectations of the American Bar Association, the FAMU first-time pass rate has been within or exceeded 15 percent of the overall pass rate for the fifth consecutive exam.

“The recent Florida Bar passage rate report reflects the FAMU College of Law’s legacy of academic excellence, resilience and forward progress,” said FAMU President Elmira Mangum, Ph.D. “The university applauds our newest members of the Florida Bar, and the administrators, faculty and staff of our Orlando campus for their determination and dedication to producing the next generation of leaders in the legal field.”

According to data compiled by the American Bar Association/Law School Admissions Council, the FAMU College of Law consistently produces more African-American law graduates than any other law school in Florida. In addition, the College of Law has consistently been recognized for diversity, being named the “Most Diverse Law School in the Nation” on multiple occasions by U.S. News and World Report.

“I am extremely proud of the graduates that passed the February 2014 bar exam. Their commitment and hard work is evident in the College’s bar passage rate, which reveals that at least seven out of ten FAMU graduates passed the February 2014 bar exam on the first attempt. This is definitely something to be applauded,” said Professor Alicia Jackson, director of the Academic Success and Bar Preparation Program at the FAMU College of Law.

The FAMU College of Law was founded in 1949 on FAMU’s main campus in Tallahassee. After graduating 57 lawyers, the law school was closed by the state of Florida in 1968. The Florida Legislature voted to reopen the law school in 2000 and Orlando was selected as the location. The re-established FAMU College of Law opened its doors in 2002 and is now housed in a state-of-the-art facility in downtown Orlando’s Parramore neighborhood. The FAMU College of Law received full accreditation from the American Bar Association in July 2009.

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FAMU Administrator Wanda Ford Named American Council on Education Fellow

April 22, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: U.S. Congressman Alcee Hastings to Keynote FAMU College of Laws 10th Hooding Ceremony

≪ Previous: FAMU College of Law Celebrates Top Passage Rate

The American Council on Education (ACE) has announced that Wanda Ford, D.M., interim executive director of Title III Programs at Florida A&M University (FAMU) has been named an ACE Fellow for the 2014-15 academic year.

The ACE Fellows Program, established in 1965, is designed to strengthen institutions and leadership in American higher education by identifying and preparing emerging leaders for senior positions in college and university administration. Thirty-one Fellows, nominated by the senior administration of their institutions, were selected this year following a rigorous application process.

Ford has more than 20 years of experience in higher education administration. In her current capacity, Ford is responsible for overseeing the programmatic and financial aspects of approximately $11 million in Title III funding awarded to the university by the U.S. Department of Education. During her tenure at FAMU, she has served as director of sponsored programs, director of contracts and grants and associate controller.

“I am honored to be named a 2014-15 ACE Fellow,” said Ford. “I’m grateful for the nomination and all of the support and encouragement to pursue this learning opportunity. I look forward to enhancing my leadership skills to further assist the university in continuing to achieve its motto of ‘Excellence with Caring.’”

The ACE Fellows Program combines three retreats on higher education issues organized by ACE; interactive learning opportunities; campus visits and placement at another higher education institution to condense years of on-the-job experience and skills development into a single semester or year. Ford’s fellowship will include tackling an issue of focus for FAMU, while spending the next academic year working with a college or university president and other senior officers at a host institution.

Joan Wodiska, ACE vice president and chief leadership officer, noted that many previous Fellows have advanced into major positions in academic administration. Nearly 2,000 higher education leaders have participated in the ACE Fellows Program since its inception, with more than 300 Fellows having served as chief executive officers of colleges or universities, and more than 1,300 having served as provosts, vice presidents and deans.

“For nearly 50 years, the ACE Fellows Program has transformed lives and grown future leaders,” said Joan Wodiska, ACE vice president and chief leadership officer. “The ACE Fellows Program is unique. The program immerses Fellows in learning experiences to gain insight and understanding into the changing environment of higher education.”

Founded in 1918, ACE is the major coordinating body for all the nation's higher education institutions, representing more than 1,600 college and university presidents, and more than 200 related associations, nationwide. It provides leadership on key higher education issues and influences public policy through advocacy. For more information, please visit www.acenet.edu or follow ACE on Twitter @ACEducation.

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U.S. Congressman Alcee Hastings to Keynote FAMU College of Laws 10th Hooding Ceremony

April 23, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMU Alumna Named Among Top 100 Most Influential Blacks in Corporate America

≪ Previous: FAMU Administrator Wanda Ford Named American Council on Education Fellow

U.S. Congressman and FAMU alumnus Alcee Hastings will keynote the 10th Annual Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Law Hooding Ceremony on May 10. The event will take place at 10 a.m., at the Hilton Orlando, located at 6001 Destination Parkway (near International Drive).

"We are honored to have a true trailblazer for equality address our 10th graduating class since the re-establishment of the FAMU College of Law," said Dean LeRoy Pernell. "It is indeed fitting that one of our own return for this milestone observance."

Congressman Hastings is currently serving his 11th term in Congress, representing the 20th District of Florida, which includes parts of Broward, Palm Beach and Hendry Counties. With an undergraduate degree from Fisk University, he became one of the 57 original graduates of the College of Law when it was located in Tallahassee on FAMU's main campus. He earned his law degree in 1963.

Appointed by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter in 1979, he became the first African-American federal judge in the state of Florida, and served in that position for 10 years. Since his election to Congress as the first African-American from Florida since the post-Civil War period, Congressman Hastings has been an outspoken advocate for Floridians and citizens throughout the nation. As an attorney, civil rights activist, judge and now member of Congress, he has championed the rights of minorities, women, the elderly, children and immigrants.

In the 113th Congress, Congressman Hastings' legislative priorities include continued efforts to create jobs and provide greater economic opportunities for middle class and working-poor Americans; making our country safer and more secure; ensuring that our election systems are easier and more fair; supporting small businesses; investing in green energy and infrastructure; increasing access to quality, affordable health care; and strengthening and improving Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, to name a few.

Known throughout the world as an expert in foreign policy, Congressman Hastings continues to advocate for diplomacy before military action to settle disputes with established and emerging nations.

Congressman Hastings will address the candidates, who will have their juris doctor degrees conferred in Tallahassee, Fla. at the university's commencement exercises on May 3, during which Microsoft Chairman John W. Thompson and ESSENCE Editor-at-Large Mikki Taylor will deliver the keynote addresses. The Hooding Ceremony will recognize more than 140 candidates, including the fall 2013, spring 2014 and summer 2014 graduating classes.

The FAMU College of Law’s Hooding Ceremony is a public event; however, seating is limited and there is a parking fee at the Hilton Orlando.

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FAMU Alumna Named Among Top 100 Most Influential Blacks in Corporate America

April 23, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMU Alumna Mitzi Miller Named Editor in Chief of EBONY Magazine

≪ Previous: U.S. Congressman Alcee Hastings to Keynote FAMU College of Laws 10th Hooding Ceremony

Florida A&M University (FAMU) alumna Cheryl A. Harris has been named one of Savoy magazine’s 2014 “Top 100 Most Influential Blacks in Corporate America."

Harris earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration from FAMU in 1989. Currently, the Chicago native serves as the senior vice president of sourcing and procurement solutions for Allstate Insurance Company, the largest publicly held personal lines property and casualty insurer in America.

Harris is responsible for optimizing Allstate’s spending portfolio of $7.5 billion and oversees Allstate’s supplier diversity program. She also serves as a senior executive sponsor for FAMU on behalf of Allstate. Over the last 20 years, in various capacities, she has helped to mentor and place hundreds of FAMU students with promising career opportunities.

Prior to her position with Allstate, Harris worked for Accenture, LLP, a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company. Harris launched Accenture’s first supplier diversity development program, achieving 21 percent of the company’s addressable spending with minority- and women-owned businesses.

Harris is a member of the FAMU Foundation Board of Directors and is the chair of the Key Executive Advisory Council of the FAMU Business & Industry Cluster. She is a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and a board member of Teen Living Programs, a Chicago youth homeless shelter that provides comprehensive services.

Harris’ many accomplishments include her previous recognition by Savoy as one of the 2012 “Top Women in Corporate America” and being featured as a 2013 “Business Leader of Color” by Chicago United. She was named the “Supplier Diversity Professional of the Year” during Minority Enterprise Development Week in 2011 and was featured in Women’s Enterprise USA Magazine for her efforts toward supplier diversity in 2009.

Harris is married to Brian Booker, a FAMU alumnus, and resides in Chicago with their three children: Houston, Sidra and Bradyn.

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FAMU Alumna Mitzi Miller Named Editor in Chief of EBONY Magazine

April 23, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Florida Classic Consortium Begins Prep for 2014 Game

≪ Previous: FAMU Alumna Named Among Top 100 Most Influential Blacks in Corporate America

Florida A&M University (FAMU) alumna Mitzi Miller has taken the reigns of the iconic EBONY magazine. Miller was named the publication’s editor-in-chief by Desiree Rogers, CEO of Johnson Publishing Company on April 22. Miller, most recently served as editor-in-chief of JET magazine, a post she had held since May 2011.

“Mitzi is a gifted editor with tremendous energy and passion, and her strong editorial background will catapult the EBONY brand to greater heights,” said Rogers in the announcement. “We are thrilled to have Mitzi in our JPC family and are excited to see the new direction she will bring to the magazine.”

While at the helm of JET magazine, Miller revamped the iconic 62-year-old brand with the magazine’s first and only successful redesign, relaunch of the Jet website and an increased social media presence. An award-winning journalist and bestselling author of five books, Miller is regularly a featured guest on several national television programs, including ABC’s “Good Morning America,” TV One’s “News One Now with Roland Martin,” MSNBC’s “Melissa Harris-Perry” and CNN’s “CNN Newsroom.”

“I am extremely humbled to be trusted with the responsibility of leading the No. 1 African-American publication in the country,” said Miller. “Amy Barnett is an exceptional editor, and I am honored to succeed her as editor-in-chief at EBONY. I am excited about all the possibilities as I assume my new role.”

Prior to joining JET, Miller served as the editor-in-chief of SET Magazine.

A former associate editor at JANE Magazine, Miller began her editorial career in 2001 at HONEY magazine. Miller holds a bachelor’s degree in English from FAMU and currently serves as a member of the Jack & Jill of America Foundation Board. Her recent accolades include recognition among FAMU’s “125 Outstanding Alumni,” The Root’s “100 Honorees for 2013,” and Crain’s Chicago Business Magazine’s 2011 “40 Under 40” roster.

EBONY is the No. 1 source for an authoritative perspective on the African-American community. The monthly magazine, now in its 68th year, reaches nearly 11 million readers.

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Florida Classic Consortium Begins Prep for 2014 Game

April 27, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMU Alumnus Keith Clinkscales Named Among Top 100 Cable Executives

≪ Previous: FAMU Alumna Mitzi Miller Named Editor in Chief of EBONY Magazine

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Florida Classic Consortium met Wednesday, April 16, kicking off plans for the 2014 Florida Blue Florida Classic game between Bethune-Cookman University and Florida A&M University. This year’s game will take place November 22 at the reconstructed Citrus Bowl in Orlando.

The consortium, consisting of several members from both institutions including the presidents and athletics directors, met with members from Florida Citrus Sports on a number of topics to begin planning for the 2014 Florida Blue Florida Classic weekend.

Plans for the renovated Citrus Bowl indicate construction is on schedule and is expected to be fully functional by game day.

Fans can get a live look-in on stadium development by visiting the Turner Construction page dedicated to the stadium (http://turnerwzc.workzonecam.com).

We’re so excited to open Orlando’s brand-new stadium with a game that has a deep history in this region,” said Florida Citrus Sports CEO Steve Hogan. “The Florida Blue Florida Classic has resulted in some of the best games – and biggest crowds – that the old Citrus Bowl hosted. There’s no better event to commemorate the opening of the new building.”

During the meeting, Hogan presented each institution with a check for the proceeds from last year’s event. Bethune-Cookman won the 2013 Florida Blue Florida Classic, 29-10.

Afterward, Hogan, B-CU president Dr. Edison O Jackson, FAMU president Dr. Elmira Mangum, B-CU Director of Athletics Lynn W. Thompson and FAMU Athletics Director Kellen Winslow, Sr. paused for a photo officially kicking off the 2014 campaign.

For more information on the Florida Blue Florida Classic, please log on FloridaClassic.org.

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FAMU Alumnus Keith Clinkscales Named Among Top 100 Cable Executives

April 28, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMU Attracts Distinguished Scholars from Top High Schools

≪ Previous: Florida Classic Consortium Begins Prep for 2014 Game

Florida A&M University (FAMU) alumnus Keith Clinkscales has been named among the most influential power players in the cable industry.

Clinkscales, CEO of Sean “Diddy” Combs' REVOLT Media, appears on the CableFax Magazine “Top 100 Executives in Cable” list in the publication's April 2014 issue. He will also be honored this week in Los Angeles at The Cable Show, the cable industry's largest annual trade show and conference.

Previous “Top 100 Executives” include: BET Networks Chairman and CEO Debra Lee, HDNet Chairman Mark Cuban, C-SPAN President Rob Kennedy, Viacom President Doug Herzog and National Geographic CEO David Lyle.

After receiving his degree in accounting and finance from FAMU's School of Business and Industry, Clinkscales has gone on to serve as the president and CEO of VIBE magazine, an ESPN executive, chairman and CEO of Vanguarde Media and CEO of The Shadow League Digital.

With more than 20 years of career success under his belt, Clinkscales' previous honors include two National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Excellence in Journalism Awards, two Peabody Awards, the National Magazine Award, an Emmy nomination and most recently he was named among the “Top 50 Minorities in Cable” by Cableworld Magazine.

Clinkscales received his MBA from Harvard Business School and was recently awarded the Professional Achievement Award from Harvard's African American Alumni Association.

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FAMU Attracts Distinguished Scholars from Top High Schools

April 28, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMU Alumna Receives Tony Award Nomination

≪ Previous: FAMU Alumnus Keith Clinkscales Named Among Top 100 Cable Executives

National Achievement Semi-finalist Audriana Osborne, a student at Loveless Academic Magnet Program (LAMP) High School in Montgomery, Ala., will be among some of the nation’s top scholars who will join the Florida A&M University (FAMU) student body this fall.

Osborne was presented with FAMU's Distinguished Scholar Award by Assistant Director of Enrollment Management Kenneth Tellis. She will use the full-ride scholarship to study English and pre-law.

“Florida A&M University is in the midst of a strategic and concerted effort to attract the best and brightest students to our growing community of scholars here on campus,” Tellis said. “Audriana has demonstrated academic success throughout her high school career and we look forward to welcoming her to the FAMU family in the fall.”

According to recent U.S. News & World Report data, Osborne comes to FAMU from one of the nation’s top ranked high schools. LAMP is the No. 1 ranked high school in Alabama for 2013 and 2014. The school is also ranked No. 18 in the nation; with an average ACT score of 29, SAT score of 1910 and 100 percent college attendance.

Tellis said LAMP High School is just one example of the caliber of schools that the university has successfully recruited students from for its incoming class of 2018. In addition to LAMP, the newest members of the FAMU community will come from such schools as Florida’s Stanton Prep (No. 2), Dreyfoos School of the Arts (No. 5), Suncoast Community High School (No. 8), as well as Alonzo & Tracy Mourning Senior High School, which U.S. News lists as one of the top-ranked schools in Miami-Dade County.

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FAMU Alumna Receives Tony Award Nomination

April 28, 2014, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: FAMU Announces Researchers of the Year

≪ Previous: FAMU Attracts Distinguished Scholars from Top High Schools

Florida A&M University (FAMU) alumna Anika Noni Rose has been nominated for the Tony Award for best performance by an actress in a featured role in a play.

Rose is nominated for her role as the inquisitive Beneatha Younger in “A Raisin in the Sun.” Rose currently appears in the Broadway play starring opposite Denzel Washington and directed by Kenny Leon.

In 2009, Rose made history as the voice of Princess Tiana, Disney’s first African-American princess, in the movie “The Princess and the Frog.” Rose starred in the 2006 movie “Dreamgirls” and also was featured in starring roles on Broadway such as Maggie in “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.”

In a 2010 interview, Rose described how she decided to move from Connecticut to attend FAMU, following in the footsteps of several relatives.

“I wanted to major in musical theater and I chose FAMU because it was smaller, more intimate and hands-on than some of the other schools,” Rose said.

Dean of the College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities Valencia Matthews, Ph.D., taught Rose while she was a student.

“Anika was always very clear about what she wanted to do,” said Matthews. “This was going to be her life’s work and she pursued it that way. We are very proud of her.”

The winners of the 68th Tony Awards will be announced Sunday, June 8 from Radio City Music Hall and air on CBS.

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