Former FAMU Trustee Bill Jennings
Cleastor William “Bill” Jennings died Sunday according to current trustees chairman, Rufus Montgomery. Jennings served on Florida A&M University’s Board of Trustees from 2001 to 2013.
Montgomery announced his passing.
“It is with sincere and deep regret that we recognize a great fallen Rattler, Mr. C. William “Bill” Jennings. He passed away Sunday,” said Montgomery.
Jennings was a 1969 graduate from FAMU with a degree in mathematics. According to FAMU, Jennings served in the Army as a second lieutenant until 1973. He later became a lieutenant colonel and was a member of the Tuskegee Airmen. The FAMU graduate also served in the Army Reserves from 1978 to 1993.
Jennings served as co-chairman of the campaign for the FAMU Law School Building Fund and for the FAMU Scholarship Fund as well. He received an honorary doctorate at FAMU’s Fall 2013 commencement, recognizing his contributions to the university.
The FAMU graduate was also recognized as playing a significant role of the American Beach Museum in American Beach, Fla. The museum commemorates the life and work of the entrepreneur, Abraham Lincoln Lewis.
FAMU Mathematics Professor, Calvin Robinson, was surprised to hear about Jennings’ passing.
That’s just so unfortunate. I definitely did not see that coming. His family will definitely be in my prayers.”
With all of his accomplishments in mind, University President Elmira Mangum gave her condolences to his loved ones.
“I join the Board of Trustees Chair Rufus Montgomery in expressing my deep condolences to the loved ones of former Trustee William “Bill” Jennings. In the short time that I was able to get to know Mr. Jennings, he quickly became a trusted advisor. He was kindhearted and dedicated to the advancement of FAMU…” said Mangum.