FAMU Alumna Inspires Homecoming Convocation Audience Recalling Her Amazing Career Journey
Florida A&M University (FAMU) alumna Terri Hines thrilled an energized 2024 Homecoming Convocation audience by ‘Remembering The Times’ of her magical journey from School of Business and Industry (SBI) student to becoming the first person of color ever to lead communications for a major sports television network.
“When I graduated from FAMU many moons ago, I was filled with hope and dreams. I ventured into the business world facing challenges that tested my resolve. But I learned that every obstacle is an opportunity in disguise,” said Hines, who paid tribute to her family legacy of college-educated, athletic forebears and relatives during her speech. She recalled her rise from being a junior marketer for an automaker in Washington, D.C. “In my career, I've worn many hats, each experience teaching me invaluable lessons. I've seen how vision and tenacity can create paths where none exist, and where dreams can take you far.”
The FOX Sports executive joined the company in December 2016 following 10 years at NIKE, Inc. As vice president of global communications for NIKE’s Converse brand for six years, she led brand communications, media relations, entertainment, corporate and internal strategies, and philanthropy for the Converse brand portfolio worldwide across key markets, including North America, EMEA, Asia Pacific, and Latin America.
The Washington, D.C., native also spent four years as director of global communications for NIKE’s Jordan Brand, where she led communications and entertainment strategy, corporate responsibility, and all brand events supporting the brand’s premium athletic footwear, apparel, and accessories inspired by the dynamic legacy, vision, and direct involvement of Michael Jordan. She also led top-notch campaign launches for Jordan’s high-profile athletes, including Chris Paul, Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade, and Derek Jeter.
“You see my dream company was NIKE. I was an athlete growing up and I dreamed if there were ever a time. [Now] working for my dream company, my favorite athlete in the world becomes my boss and allows me to excel through the power of a dream,” Hines said. “I’m still walking in my dream right now. I dreamed of working in television or film for a long time, and I stand before you as the first person of color to hold an executive communications leadership position ever in sports television with the No. 1 live sports entertainment network, FOX Sports.”
As FOX Sports’ chief spokesperson, Hines is a member of the senior management team and responsible for leading the development of all communications, brand and social responsibility strategies for the sports television arm of the FOX Corporation. Hines spoke fondly of her fellow broadcaster colleagues who are also HBCU alumni including FAMU’s very own Pam Oliver, acclaimed FOX NFL reporter.
“As students at FAMU, you are part of a legacy of excellence. You are equipped with knowledge, creativity, and the drive to make a difference. Whether your ambitions lie in business, the arts, education, medicine, athletics, or any field you choose, know that your dreams are valid. They are not just fantasies; they are blueprints for your future,” Hines continued. “Each step of my journey has brought its own challenges and triumphs, but the foundation of my success was built right here at FAMU. The skills I honed, the relationships I forged, and the values instilled in me as a student have guided my path.
In addition to her bachelor’s in business administration from FAMU, Hines also earned her master’s in communications from American University.
“As I reflect on my dreams, I stand before you in this moment remembering the time when I sat in this audience listening to fellow alumni tell their stories and inspire, and wondered if I would ever get my turn,” Hines said. “The road to success is not a straight line; it’s winding, and I can’t tell you how many times I stumbled. But I learned to rise each time, fueled by my passion, the lessons learned, and the love from this esteemed university.”
During the two-hour ceremony, Interim President Timothy Beard, Ph.D., presented awards to Hines and several other alumni.
Shirley and Bernard Kinsey, who met at FAMU almost 60 years ago, were recognized as longtime supporters of the Marching “100” Band, the Athletics Department, and other programs and owners of the Kinsey Collection, one of the largest private collections of African American art and artifacts.
Jomo Cousins, Ph.D., retired NFL defensive end, author, speaker, and Tampa Bay area pastor, received the President’s Tribute of Excellence for 2024.
Bishop Dexter McDonald, physical therapy graduate and pastor of Community Outreach Word of Deliverance Ministries Inc., in Bradenton, Fla., was also recognized.
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