Humphries to keynote convocation

 

Former FAMU President Frederick Humphries will serve as this year’s keynote speaker for Founders Day Convocation. Humphries, who served as president from 1985 until 2001, is excited about his return to FAMU for its 125th anniversary.                           

“It is very important that we never forget where we have come from,” Humphries said. “We, as past and present Rattlers must pause and reflect to see and remember how far we have come. We must always express how important it is to be dedicated to FAMU’s purpose and mission.”

Not only is Humphries a past president of FAMU, but a graduate as well. He earned his B.A. in  chemistry in 1957, graduating magna cum laude. 

While serving as the eighth president of FAMU, Humphries oversaw increases in enrollment and raises in academic standards. In 1997 under his tenure FAMU was selected as Time Magazine/Princeton Review College of the Year.

Humphries is also no stranger in helping FAMU 

celebrate major milestones. For FAMU’s 100th anniversary, he was awarded the Centennial Medallion for his outstanding work within the university. 

During his speech, Humphries will address how and why it is important for Rattlers to band together for a common purpose.

“It is necessary to have founders’ day…to remember that FAMU has been around for 125 years,” Humphries said. “We must convince students, faculty, staff and administrators to recognize and embrace the changing times at FAMU. As Rattlers, we must appreciate FAMU and dedicate ourselves to carrying it into the future.” 

After his speech, Humphries hopes the audience will leave convocation with a newfound love for not only themselves, but for FAMU as well.

“I want to make everyone leave feeling good about themselves and for the future of FAMU,” said Humphries.

Founders Day Convocation will be held Wednesday at 10:10 a.m. in Lee Hall Auditorium.