FAMU’s 40 Under 40: Where Purpose Meets Power
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida A&M University honored the next generation of Rattler leaders during the annual 40 Under 40 Celebration on Friday, Oct. 17, in the University’s Grand Ballroom.
The signature event recognized 40 distinguished alumni under the age of 40 who are excelling in their professions and uplifting their communities through service and leadership. The evening brought together alumni, students, faculty, and supporters for a night filled with reflection, inspiration, and undeniable Rattler pride.
Pictured (left to right): Ashlee Gomez, Tanza Thompson, Kenedria Thurman, and Larrynee Pierre — shining examples
of purpose-driven leadership and Rattler excellence.
Cheers and applause echoed throughout the Grand Ballroom as honorees were celebrated for their accomplishments and continued commitment to creating positive change. Each honoree received a commemorative gift box and a crystal trophy, symbolizing both their professional excellence and their enduring connection to the University.
Remarks from President Marva Johnson
Florida A&M University President Marva Johnson, J.D., took a moment to reflect on the spirit of the evening and the remarkable accomplishments of the honorees. Her words carried warmth and pride, echoing the Rattler energy that filled the Grand Ballroom.
“You are each a shining example of what it means to be a proud FAMU Rattler — demonstrating excellence, innovation, and leadership,” Johnson said. “You’ve proven that you can get anywhere from here — and the best part is, you did it before even turning 40.”
President Marva Johnson, J.D., presents flowers to this year’s 40 Under 40 cohort
in recognition of their achievements and continued excellence.
She reminded attendees that the 40 Under 40 Celebration isn’t just about looking back on success, but about inspiring what comes next.
“You’re a FAMU graduate, so you’re always expected to be great,” she continued. “I’d like for each of you to think about what you can do to ensure that the next ‘you’ gets to finish — that the next ‘you’ can stand on your shoulders and reach even higher.”
Her remarks drew applause and nods of agreement from the audience, serving as a powerful reminder that FAMU’s strength lies in its people — leaders who carry the legacy of excellence wherever they go.
Honoree Spotlight: Shelby Avery, Ford Motor Company
For honoree Shelby Avery, the recognition marked both a personal milestone and a reflection of the strong FAMU community that continues to support her journey.
“It’s a great honor to be recognized in this manner,” Avery said. “When I shared the news with my friends, many of them said it was well deserved. You go through your day-to-day striving to honor yourself and the University.”
Shelby Avery, Ford Motor Company — For Avery, the honor symbolizes both personal growth
and the powerful support of the FAMU community that helped shape her path.
As vice president of FAMU’s Michigan Alumni Chapter, Avery helps strengthen the University’s
partnership with Ford Motor Company,a major sponsor and recruiter of Rattler talent.
“I make sure we cultivate that relationship when new Rattlers join the company,” she said. “It’s important that I give back and represent FAMU because FAMU has given so much to me.”
Nominated by one of her former professors, Avery said the recognition underscores the lasting relationships built at FAMU.
“People always have eyes on you and what you’re doing,” she said. “I’m glad I’ve been able to lean into the passions I developed at FAMU — giving back, mentoring, and doing things with excellence.”
Avery encourages students to pursue their passions and take advantage of every opportunity.
“Lean into what you’re passionate about,” she advised. “Be adaptable, be supportive, and do work that makes your community better. Getting involved beyond the classroom — through organizations, travel, and networking — builds connections that shape your future.”
Honoree Spotlight: Tiffani Davis, Estée Lauder Companies
For Tiffani Davis, being named to the 40 Under 40 list was a moment of affirmation for years of hard work and dedication.
“I’m super excited,” Davis said. “This recognition feels like confirmation of the work I’ve been doing. It motivates me to keep pushing forward to help shape the lives of other Rattlers.”
Over the past five years, Davis has worked with Estée Lauder Companies to strengthen the brand’s partnership with FAMU, creating pathways for students to explore careers in beauty, business, and marketing.
From the Hill to Estée Lauder - Tiffani Davis proves that purpose and perseverance
pay off.
“There’s a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes,” she said. “Sometimes you know you’re doing the right thing, but when you receive an award like this, it’s a reminder that you’re doing meaningful work in the right spaces.”
Reflecting on her journey, Davis shared what she would tell her freshman self.
“My picture from the National Black Case Study Competition is still in the lobby,” she said with a smile. “I would tell that younger version of myself, ‘I’m that girl.’ I was that girl in college, and I’m still that girl.”
Davis also offered words of encouragement for current students and young alumni.
“Always give back,” she said. “Make a way for other Rattlers and reach back — because I couldn’t have done it without the Rattlers who came before me. That’s how we continue to dominate and uplift one another.”
Highlights from the Evening
The celebration featured a formal induction ceremony, a captivating spoken word performance by Shiane Sullivan, and networking opportunities that connected emerging leaders with university partners and fellow alumni.
Sullivan, a third-year theater scholar, delivered a stirring original poem titled Rattler Flames, which embodied the pride and perseverance of the FAMU spirit:
“A Rattler is a flame that dares you to extinguish it. It’s a light ignited by Rattler pride. Since 1887, we’ve thrived — dripped with drive. I’ve become a flame that never dies.”
Her performance resonated deeply with attendees, capturing the unity, creativity, and unyielding spirit that continue to define FAMU.
Shiane Sullivan takes the podium to deliver “Rattler Flames,” a powerful poem honoring
the spirit and legacy of FAMU.
Celebrating Sponsors and Supporters
The evening’s success was made possible through sponsors who continue to invest in FAMU’s mission.
Sponsors included Estée Lauder Companies, in partnership with Origins and Jo Malone, along with Ford Motor Company; the FAMU National Alumni Association, under the leadership of President Artisha Polk; Brand The Yard, co-founded by Ashlee Gomez; and FAMU’s Division of Academic Affairs, Office of Student Success, and Business and Auxiliary Services.
Special thanks to Origins for sponsoring the event’s signature gift bags.
Their collective support reflected a shared commitment to advancing education, diversity, and leadership among FAMU alumni. Their contributions not only helped celebrate this year’s honorees but also reinforced the importance of community partnerships in uplifting future generations of Rattlers.
A gift of gratitude — 40 Under 40 gift boxes sponsored by FAMU’s Business and Auxiliary
Services.
Closing Remarks
As the celebration neared its end, the Grand Ballroom filled once more with applause as Adam Ramgeet, marketing manager in FAMU’s Office of Communications, took the stage to deliver closing remarks on behalf of the University.
“Your partnership and generosity have been instrumental in making this celebration of excellence, leadership, and Rattler pride truly unforgettable,” Ramgeet said. “Because of your continued support, we are able to honor outstanding alumni, elevate the FAMU legacy, and inspire future generations of scholars and leaders.”
Adam Ramgeet takes the podium to deliver the closing remarks at the 40 Under 40 Awards.
He went on to note how the event has blossomed in scale and spirit.
“Each year, this event grows in magnitude and impact — and that’s a reflection of
your unwavering commitment,” he said. “We truly could not have done it without you.
Thank you for helping us make the 40 Under 40 celebration bigger, better, and bolder
every year.”
Looking Ahead
As the event came to a close, the stories shared and achievements recognized serve as inspiration for the next generation striving to make their mark in their fields and communities.
Each year, the FAMU 40 Under 40 Awards honors exceptional alumni who exemplify the University’s values through their accomplishments and impact. Honorees are selected based on several key criteria, including professional achievements, philanthropy, community engagement, and contributions to FAMU.
To be considered, candidates must first be nominated by peers or supporters who recognize their outstanding commitment to leadership, excellence, and the University’s mission.
Pictured (left to right): James Seay, Karla L. Wilson, Esq., Ivy Salters, Ashley Scott, Courtney Thomas, and
Domonique Jones.
(All Photos by Michael Cork/Michael A. Cork Photography)
Media Contact:
Ashley Flete
Senior Communications Specialist
ashley1.flete@famu.edu
