FAMU Marching “100” Receives $50K Gift from Noted Alumna Lettman-Hicks
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Florida A&M University (FAMU) alumna and advocate Sharon Lettman-Hicks made a personal commitment to the future of FAMU’s Marching “100” with a $50,000 gift to the Beyond the Uniform: 100 for 100 campaign.
This generous contribution supports the campaign’s bold mission to raise $900,000 annually, enough to provide a $3,000 scholarship for each of the 300+ student musicians who bring the sound, soul, and spirit of the Marching “100” to life. For Lettman-Hicks, this donation is more than a financial contribution. It reflects her love for FAMU and her belief in investing in the students who carry its legacy forward.
Left to Right: Marvin Green Jr., major gift officer for athletics and the Marching
"100", FAMU alumna Sharon Lettman-Hicks, Vice President of University Advancement
Anthony Neal, Ph.D., and Shelby Chipman, Ph.D., director of Bands. (Photo by Treyvon
Eugene)
“The Marching “100” has always been one of the most consistent and relevant ambassadors for FAMU. No matter how much turmoil may be happening around our beloved Mother FAMU, the Marching “100” brings pride and joy that is hard to describe. It's not just entertainment. It's Excellence with Caring,” she said.
The Beyond the Uniform campaign centers student stories and seeks to lighten the financial load that scholar-musicians carry. Between rehearsals, performances, and coursework, their dedication often comes at a personal cost emotionally, academically, and financially.
Shelby Chipman, Ph.D., directing the next generation of 400-plus Rattlers, during
the Marching "100" Summer Band Camp. (Photo by Treyvon Eugene)
"As someone who has had the honor of being part of The Marching '100' family for over four decades as a student, trumpet section leader, and now director, I can say without hesitation that this $50,000 gift means the world to our students. It acknowledges not just their talent on the field, but their grit, discipline, and commitment off the field,” said Shelby Chipman, Ph.D., director of Bands.
“The Marching 100” has always represented more than music; we are a living legacy of FAMU excellence. This support helps ensure our students have the resources they need to grow, succeed, and carry that legacy forward with pride. It reminds them that they are seen, valued, and supported,” he said.
FAMU's first female head drum major Oluwamodupe "Dupe" Oloyede shares a moment of gratitude with FAMU alumna Sharon Lettman-Hicks.
(Photo by Treyvon Eugene)
Lettman-Hicks hopes her gift will inspire other alumni, friends, and partners to meet the moment and invest in the young leaders behind the sound.
“The Beyond the Uniform campaign represents an understanding that the members of The Marching '100' are students first. The sacrifice they make to be a student ambassador in the Marching “100” is matched by their commitment to being a stellar Rattler student on and off the field,” she said.
To join the campaign and support the next generation of Rattlers, visit https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/BTU.
Media Contact:
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.d.james-terry@famu.edu
