FAMU College of Law Showcases Momentum and Innovation at Annual State of the College Address
ORLANDO, Fla. — The Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Law hosted its Annual State of the College of Law Address on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025, highlighting a year marked by growth, rising student success, and new investments that will shape the future of legal education at the institution. The program opened with the “Boots on the Ground” video, celebrating the nearly $20,000 raised through FAMU’s 1887 Strikes Days of Giving campaign.
Interim Dean Cecil Howard welcomed students, faculty, alumni, judges, and community supporters as he reflected on the college’s achievements and reaffirmed its theme for the academic year: Strike First. Strike Far. Strike with Excellence. He praised the collective efforts that have propelled the college forward, including the successful work of the Student Bar Association and the engagement of the broader FAMU Law community.
“Our momentum is real, and our mission is clear,” Howard said. “We are preparing our students not only to excel in the classroom and on the bar exam, but to lead in a rapidly evolving legal landscape. At FAMU College of Law, we will continue to Strike First, Strike Far, and Strike with Excellence.”
During the address, Howard announced a major milestone, the college’s first direct legislative budget allocation in more than a decade. The $5 million investment will support critical infrastructure upgrades and the development of an Innovative and Emerging Law HUB, designed to expand educational pathways in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, intellectual property, sports and entertainment law, and international law. He noted that new resources will also enhance student life through a renovated student lounge with hot food options and the creation of a campus Wellness HUB offering yoga, meditation, and fitness activities.
Howard also celebrated the college’s expanding presence in the judiciary, recognizing graduates recently elected or appointed to judgeships across Florida and Georgia. He invited guests to a portrait unveiling honoring these alumni, taking place later in the evening. He further highlighted continued improvement in bar exam performance, noting a 76.1% first-time passage rate on the July 2025 exam, as well as strong engagement through the Strike with Excellence Tour, which has connected the College with alumni, prospective students, and community partners in cities nationwide.
Media Contact
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
