Mister and Miss FAMU Crowned for 2014-15 year

Florida A&M University crowned Dominique James and Andre Bridges as their new Mister and Miss FAMU at the 108 Royal Coronation in Lee Hall.

Former 2000-2001 Mr. FAMU, Charles Lattimore, led the ceremony introducing the Royal Court and Coronation participants.

The Royal Attendants were escorted and seated onto the grand stage decorated with regal adornments. Following the introductions, the crowd stood from their seats as Lattimore announced the entry of the King and Queen to be. 

Dominique James and Andre Bridges were elected by the FAMU student body through a democratic process and will carry the title of Mister and Miss FAMU for the 2014-2015 academic year. 

James is a first-generation college student from Orlando, Fla., who began her royal journey at FAMU fall 2011, earning the title of Miss Freshman Attendant. James is affiliated with organizations such as Kinship of Big Sister Little Sister Mentoring Program, FAMU Diamond Dancers, FAMU Chapter NAACP, The Rattler Battalion Army ROTC and the Office of University Retention. James is also a spring 2014 Initiate of Alpha Kappa Psi a Professional Business Fraternity, Inc. 

James thanked her mother and father, royal family, friends and supporters.

"I stand on the shoulders of giants who paved the way for me to be here," James said. "It truly takes a village to raise Miss FAMU." 

Bridges, a Washington DC native, served as a member of DC Metro Club, the Phi Sigma Theta National Honor Society, Beta Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and Sociology Club. Bridges also served as a Royal Escort to the senior attendant on the 2013-2014 Royal Court. 

Humble and poised Bridges stood at the podium giving thanks to his mother, father, grandparents, siblings, friends and his entire support system at FAMU.

"Thank you to my queen who taught me how to be a king," Bridges said.

Bridges expressed gratitude for the opportunity of being Mister FAMU and is motivated to use his talents to help guide the youth and make active contributions to all communities.

The Coronation continued with the Royal Dance of Salutation dedicated to the king and queen. As James and Bridges sat atop their thrones, Mahogany Dance Theatre performed a contemporary–lyrical piece to Fantasia Barrino's song "I Believe."

Following the artistic dance number, the royal members of each FAMU organization, council and club approached the thrones to bestow Mister and Miss FAMU with gifts. 

After receiving their presents, Lattimore made his closing remarks and the crowd sang the Alma Mater in unison to bring the ceremony to a close. The audience left Lee Hall unanimously delighted with the whole experience. 

Freshman Healthcare Management student, Paige Durham, came out in support of her mentor Dominique James. “I really enjoyed the event. It was very uplifting and encouraging for people to get involved," Durham said. 

The king and queen walked hand-in-hand while they gracefully exited the auditorium and were driven to Gaither Gym to continue the celebration of the Royal Coronation Ball.