FAMU Launches First-Ever Giving App — FAMU Change
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — From The Highest of Seven Hills, Florida A&M University (FAMU) has long stood as a testament to excellence, innovation, and the power of education to transform lives. Today, that tradition of excellence continues with a bold step into the future: the launch of the FAMU Change app, the University's first micro-donation platform designed to turn everyday purchases into powerful acts of philanthropy.
FAMU Change empowers alumni, students, parents, and supporters to give back—effortlessly. With each swipe of a debit or credit card, the app automatically rounds up purchases to the nearest dollar and donates the spare change to support FAMU students via initiatives, including raising funds to support the relaunch of the "Life Gets Better" scholarship, paying homage to President Emeritus Frederick S. Humphries. When those spare change amounts reach $5, they are donated directly to Florida A&M University.
"This isn't just about giving—it's about reconnecting with the FAMUly from across the country," said President Marva Johnson, J.D. "Every coffee, every tank of gas—it all adds up to something bigger. Together, we're building a stronger FAMU, one transaction at a time. Together we can Make Change, Bragg Different."
The impact potential is significant: just 4,000 active users could generate over $100,000 annually. With a campaign goal of reaching 25,000 downloads by the end of 2025, FAMU Change is set to become a game-changer—not just for fundraising, but for community connection and long-term institutional support.
Beyond fundraising, FAMU Change reflects Florida A&M's mission of excellence in teaching, research, and service. As a student-centered, public HBCU founded in 1887, FAMU has built a legacy of producing leaders and innovators—including more African American graduates in STEM fields than any other institution. From the world-renowned Marching 100 to groundbreaking research programs, FAMU continues to honor its roots while leading in innovation and impact.
Powered by HBCU Change, the app also positions FAMU as a national leader in tech-forward philanthropy, especially among younger alumni and supporters.
“The FAMU Change app is a great way to allow your spare change to multiply into scholarships and support for the College of Love and Charity. When we come together, we do more than make change, we become the change,” said Brandi Tatum-Fedrick, Ed.D., acting vice president, University Advancement and executive director, FAMU Foundation, Inc.
The app will be available on the App Store and Google Play. Download FAMU Change and be part of a movement that proves once again: at Florida A&M University, Where Excellence is a Tradition, we Make Change, Bragg Different.
About Florida A&M University
Founded October 3, 1887, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) is a public, historically Black university located in Tallahassee, Florida. What distinguishes FAMU from other universities is its legacy of providing access to a high-quality, affordable education with programs and services that guide students toward successfully achieving their dreams.
FAMU is part of the State University System of Florida and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. In addition to the main Tallahassee campus, FAMU has several satellite campuses across Florida. These include the College of Law in Orlando and the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, which has sites in Crestview, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami.
About HBCU Change
HBCU Change is a mission-driven technology company dedicated to strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities through innovative fundraising solutions. By developing custom white-label mobile applications, HBCU Change empowers institutions to engage alumni and supporters in meaningful, sustainable giving. The platform’s unique roundup donation feature allows users to automatically donate spare change from everyday purchases, making philanthropy effortless and accessible. With a focus on culturally resonant engagement and cutting-edge technology, HBCU Change is transforming how HBCUs connect with their communities and build long-term financial sustainability. For more information, visit hbcuchange.com.
HOW THE APP WORKS
Brief step-by-step overview
- Download the App
Search for "FAMUChange" in your phone's app store. - Create an Account
Sign up with your email and preferred payment method. - Link Your Card
Securely connect your debit or credit card. - Make Everyday Purchases
The app rounds up each transaction. - Automatic Donation
Once you reach $5 in spare change, it's donated directly to FAMU. - Track Your Impact
View your giving history, leaderboard rank, and referral bonuses.
Media Contact
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
