Kellen Winslow Sr. introduced as AD

Florida A&M is raising the bar. The university introduced its new athletic director at a press conference Wednesday.

Hall-of-fame expectations are synonymous with the name Kellen Winslow Sr., and that’s what the new hire brings to FAMU. The former director of planning and business at Disney’s Wide World of Sports brings a wealth of experience to the Hill. The member of the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame comes to FAMU with visions of success.

“I have lived a blessed life, and this is a continuation of that blessing,” Winslow said as he was being introduced. “The lesson is to listen to those around you who care about you.”

University President Elmira Mangum has also created the President’s Alumni Advisory Board on Athletics. The board is a group of handpicked alumni who will aid the AD in his duties.

Winslow’s hire comes as a surprise for many, but it’s one that makes sense for the program. Winslow is well versed in financial matters from his time with Disney and will have assistance from the PAABA, which is headed by several former FAMU student-athletes, including former quarterback Albert Chester Sr. and former Lady Rattlers guard Natalie White.

Lt. Col. Gregory Clark, the National Alumni Association’s first vice president, will serve as the PAABA’s chairman. Clark is most well known for his tenure as a Rattlers baseball player from the three-time MEAC championship teams.

“This board is diverse enough with enough alumni that I think we’ll bring a lot to the table,” Clark said. “First thing out of the box is we’re going to do a whole entire evaluation of the program and write up a strategic plan to move athletics into the future.”

Head football coach Earl Holmes welcomes the new expectations that Winslow brings to the table.

“We’re all competitors, and the good thing is we’re on the same team,” Holmes said. “We’re fighting for one common goal, and that’s for Florida A&M athletics, as well as the university, to be back on top.”

Winslow will officially begin his role May 15.