FAMU DRS held “FBOG Chairman Brian Lamb Day” today in recognition of alumnus Brian Lamb. It began with an assembly for Lamb to celebrate “Brian Lamb Day.”
Lamb, newly installed as chairman of the Florida Board of Governors, grew up in Tallahassee and graduated from FAMU DRS.
Throughout his career, Lamb’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion continues to deepen and he has received numerous accolades. He takes over as chairman of the BOG, the governing body for the State University System, as the board continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and address other issues during the ongoing legislative session.
Lamb is the global head of diversity, equity and Inclusion at JPMorgan Chase & Co. He joined the company May 4, 2020, and reports directly to the president and chief operating officer of the firm.
He has also partnered with the National Community Reinvestment Coalition to launch a $30 billion commitment focused on access to capital for small businesses, first-time homeownership, and educational opportunities for underserved communities.
Lamb earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting and an MBA from the University of South Florida, and is also a graduate of the Stonier Graduate Banking School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Lamb’s family was in attendance at today’s event, along with members of the FAMU dean’s council, members of the FAMU leadership team and FAMU President Larry Robinson.
His speech catered to the students of FAMU DRS, also known as the “Baby Rattlers.” He said his hardships growing up should encourage them to stay on track with life.
Reputation and moving forward were a big part of his speech. He let it be known that his reputation started at DRS and continued throughout his career. In his speech, he thanked his parents for helping him grow, his godparent for helping his parents raise him, and also the rest of his family.
Robinson, spoke about Lamb and told the assembly, “Faith is when you take the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”
“Brian was and is still an extraordinary man who came from a wonderful family that instilled so much in him at a young age,” Robinson added.
After wrapping up his speech, Lamb proceeded to challenge FAMU DRS Superintendent Michael Johnson $100,000 for the betterment of the school. He, along with JPMorgan Chase & Co. are willing to take on a challenge where they can invest $100,000 in the students at FAMU DRS. He also asked that the money help the students create pathways and better their education.