The Tallahassee City Commission voted unanimously to rename three streets in honor of notable community figures, with one of the streets paying tribute to Florida A&M University football legend Rudy Hubbard.
In a 5-0 vote, the commission approved the renaming of Osceola Street to Rudy Hubbard Street, recognizing the former FAMU head football coach and College Football Hall of Famer for his exceptional contributions to the university and the city.
Hubbard, 78, coached the Rattlers from 1974 to 1985, leading them to two Black College Football National Championships and the historic NCAA Division I-AA Football Championship in 1978 — the only title of its kind won by a historically Black college or university.
Angela Suggs, FAMU’s athletic director, highlighted the significance of the honor.
“Rudy Hubbard is a cornerstone of FAMU’s rich athletic history. Naming a street after him is a testament to his impact not only on our university but also on the broader community. He inspired countless players, students and fans, and his legacy continues to shine brightly,” Suggs said.
Hubbard’s career has left an indelible mark. Before coaching at FAMU, he played as a running back at Ohio State University and later became the school’s first Black assistant coach. His leadership at FAMU saw the program’s transition from Division II to Division I-AA, securing a 83-48-3 record over 12 seasons.
Beyond FAMU, Hubbard also coached at Rickards High School in Tallahassee, further solidifying his dedication to developing young athletes.
The renaming of Osceola Street is one of three new street designations approved by the city. Okaloosa Street has been renamed Dr. Carolyn Ryals Lane in honor of the late educator and community advocate, who was recognized for her decades of service and volunteerism in Tallahassee.
Additionally, Campbell Street received an honorary designation as E. Lilyan Spencer Memorial Way, celebrating the legacy of the educator and former principal at Bond Junior High School.
City officials explained that honorary designations, such as the one for Campbell Street, are designed to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the community without requiring changes to property addresses or impacting property owners.
The city commission’s actions reflect Tallahassee’s ongoing effort to honor community trailblazers. This follows other recent street renamings, including those for musician T-Pain and tennis icon Althea Gibson, whose name now adorns Althea Gibson Way, a central thoroughfare connecting many of the renamed streets.
FAMU head football coach James Colzie III praised the decision to rename the street, emphasizing the lasting influence Hubbard has had on the program and its players.
“Coach Hubbard paved the way for so many of us in the football world,” Colzie said. “His leadership, vision and ability to inspire changed the trajectory of FAMU football forever. Seeing his name on this street is a reminder of the greatness he brought to our university and the pride we continue to carry forward.”
Details about the renaming ceremonies for the three streets have yet to be announced. However, the significance of these changes is already resonating with the community.
“Coach Hubbard’s name etched into our city’s map will remind future generations of his groundbreaking achievements and the pride he brought to Tallahassee and FAMU,” Suggs said.