Florida A&M University held its first virtual FAMU Day at the Capitol on Thursday due to the current coronavirus pandemic.
The annual event is designed to celebrate the university and convey gratitude to lawmakers for their support of FAMU’s mission and its critical programs and initiatives.
The main event was held from 5 p.m to 8 p.m. and it was hosted by FAMU and the university’s National Alumni Association.
It was an opportunity to showcase prominent Rattlers such as state Senator Bobby Powell, a FAMU alumn. Tallahassee state Senator Loranne Ausley also took part in the festivities, as did the Marching 100 and Mr. and Miss FAMU.
Thursdays virtual event began with a wonderful harmony from the FAMU choir. Their performance was followed by words of encouragement from FAMU’s chaplin, Keith Shannon. The following speakers spoke on their positions and what FAMU Day at the Capitol means.
Carolyn Collins, who heads FAMU’s government relations office and serves as the university’s primary lobbyist, explained why former Rattlers joined the virtual meeting. “The reason we are here today is because of you. Each and everyone of you who have joined us today are here
to help work with our legislators, not just today but every day of the year,” Collins said.
The new dean of the FAMU College of Law, Deidra Keller, also joined Thursday’s meeting. “This day marks an auspicious occasion. “This is my first FAMU Day at the Capitol and already I can tell the enthusiasm I have experienced at other alumni events is certainly present today,” Keller said.
Keller said she was appreciative for the support from countless members of the National Alumni Association, who continuously advocate for the university and its priorities.
Aside from the special guests who attended Thursday’s event, FAMU also recognized members who have received FAMU National Alumni Association 2021 president awards. Some of the individuals who received awards were: Kamia Brown, Bobby Powell, AL Lawson Jr. and David Scott.
FAMU administrators also spoke on the recent success of building projects on campus, including the most talked about Center for Access and Student Success (CASS) complex as well as FAMU Towers, the newest residence hall at FAMU.
The three-hour long event streamed live on zoom, Facebook and FAMUTube 1887 YouTube. All recordings of Thursday’s video can be found online.