The Florida A&M University Outdoor Club held its first meeting on Sept. 29 at Cascades Park. Students of both Florida State University and Tallahassee Community College were invited and encouraged to bring blankets for comfort purposes because all students would be sitting outside on the grass.
FAMU’s Outdoor Club was founded by Adrian Wilson, a third-year political science major. Wilson hopes to become an environmental attorney and sponsor legislation for public land and national parks.
Wilson said she had been wanting to start an Outdoor Club for roughly a year or so, but was hesitant because he had no idea where to start.
After having a conversation with his mother, her words of wisdom triggered Wilson to follow his heart and start the organization.
“I wanted to create an environment where I could open the minds of Black and indigenous students, create a deep sense of camaraderie, to immerse and educate them on the true beauty of their backyards and all that is local,” Wilson said.
On Oct. 13, the club enjoyed its first outing, hiking at Lafayette Heritage Trail and swimming at Cherokee Sink. Students from FAMU, FSU, and TCC showed up throughout the day, creating a group of almost 40 people.
“The day was jam-packed with great conversations, lots of laughter, adventure, and new connections. Thanks to Adrian’s leadership qualities, the trip was a complete success,” Selena Guthrie, a third-year education major at FAMU, said.
The second excursion is still being organized. Wilson plans on taking the club kayaking with a regional non-profit organization called the Apalachicola Riverkeeper. He also wants to expose students to an educational class about horticulture and native plants within the local nursery Native Nurseries.
“I was at the first interest meeting for the Outdoors Club, and I must admit that the aura of the group was immaculate. This is the perfect club for anyone who loves camping, swimming, or even meditating,” Erianna Speed, a third-year engineer major at FAMU, said.
Although Speed did not make it to the first event due to having other responsibilities, she hopes to be available for an event on a day when her schedule is free.
If anyone is interested in joining, you may do so by messaging and following the Outdoor Club on Instagram @famuoutdoorclub. Following the club’s Instagram will ensure that you are up to date on all events and information.