In 123 years, FAMU has spawned thousands of success stories through sacrifice and dedication.
The “college of love and charity,” words echoed by numerous generations are poised to resound for years to come.
If the original founders, Thomas DeSaille Tucker and Nathan B. Young, could see what was at one time the State Normal College for Colored Students has evolved into, what accomplishments would stand out the most?
Would it be the College of Pharmacy, which continues to graduate over 20 percent of the nation’s black pharmacists and the five patents in scientific innovations produced by its brilliant minds?
Or maybe they would gawk at the School of Business and Industry’s niche for grooming tomorrow’s leaders in corporate America.
What about the FAMU College of Law, which was reinstated in 2002 after being disbanded in 1968 as a result of Florida’s counterproductive Jim Crow education system? Although segregationist propaganda once closed the doors of FAMU Law, today the program serves as a beacon of diversity, having been named the most diverse law school in the country twice in the last decade.
The FAMU namesake serves as a symbol of hope for millions of young people nationwide. FAMU TRIO’s outreach programs during the summer and academic school year offer an escape for children who may have nothing constructive to do with their time. For years, these programs have ensured that these children finish high school and have a chance to obtain a college education.
The students, who have been and continue to be the lifeblood of FAMU, are still breaking down social barriers. The Hill is thought to have played host to the first student protest in the country back in 1923. Tallahassee’s separatist atmosphere was shaken during student sit-ins of the 1950s and 1960s.
These are just some of the pioneering efforts of students over the years.
Without a doubt, FAMU has molded its fair share of entertainers, athletes, politicians and engineers.
At the dawn of a new century, FAMU is still making remarkable contributions all over the world. Over the next decade FAMU will add more degree programs that will supplement the dreams of those who may not be expected to succeed. It’s important that FAMU’s stakeholders keep its interest pure and in accordance with governing bodies so the school will continue to produce the leaders of tomorrow.