FAMU Honors Fall 2014 Extravaganza

The Florida A&M University’s Department of Honors held its first annual Fall Honors Extravaganza seminar on Wednesday inside of the Black Archives Research Center and Museum.

The event was filled with tons of fun and excitement that allowed honor participants to express themselves.

To kick things off guest speaker Marcella D. Foster, a representative of the Graduate Studies and Research department gave an insightful presentation on the importance of attending graduate school and furthering your education.

“Advancing your education is very vital,” Foster said. “Obtaining a Master degree is the new norm. People are really competing when it comes to applying for a job.”   

Next, the program continued with presentations from Ashley Brook, President of the Honors Student Association, about why one should save for early retirement. Vice president of HSA, Briana Showers, followed Brook with an extensive presentation on former United States President John F. Kennedy.

To round out the rest of the festivities, an intense competitive debate amongst the participants started. The topic, Should Law Enforcement Officers Be Required to Wear Body Cameras, emerged then it closed with a honors got talent showcase.

Director of the Honors Center Dr. Emma W. Dawson said she was very thrilled with the way the event turned out and enjoyed every moment of it.

“I was very pleased and excited in particularly with the way each student participated,” Dawson said. “It was consistent and the students were very enthusiastic.”

Dawson then went on to say that she enjoyed being able to lend a hand and help each student succeed and reach their full potential.

“This is a dream opportunity for me,” Dawson said. “I’ve been teaching at FAMU since 1987 and to work with such smart and talented young individuals representing all majors on a daily basis, is a once in a lifetime experience.”

Counselor/Advisor of the Honors Department Ravares Conner said the benefits of being a part of the honors program are endless.

“Students get the chance to broaden their horizons and express their talents publicly,” Conner said. “They get a chance to branch out and network, which allows them to groom themselves for their future endeavors.

Alton Cullen, a junior english student from Jacksonville, Fla., said he is very thankful for all the opportunities Dawson has presented each student with since joining the program.

“Dr. Dawson takes the time to present us with numerous opportunities to help prepare us for the next level,” Cullen said. “This allows us to come out and compete with other students and raise ourselves to newer heights, therefore in doing so we raise the bar.”

For those seeking to be a part of the Honors program, contact the Honors House at (850)-599-3540. Also, you can email ravares.conner@famu.edu  or samuel.brown@famu.edu  for information regarding the program.