From Gainesville to Greatness: Kurt Adams’ Rattler Rise
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.— Kurt Adams still remembers the moment that changed everything.
“I watched my dad take his first steps after double knee surgery. I was young, but the way that physical therapist helped him—it was like witnessing someone give a second chance at life,” he recalled. “That was it. That was the moment I knew what I wanted to do.”
That quiet spark would one day lead Adams from Gainesville, Florida, to the highest academic heights of Florida A&M University—and now, to Emory University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program, one of the top in the nation.
But first, he had to find his place on the Hill.
“I came to FAMU because I wanted to be around Black excellence. I wanted to grow where I saw people who looked like me doing powerful things,” said Adams. “And that’s exactly what happened.”
From day one, Adams was a difference-maker. As a student assistant in the Office of the Provost, he stood out for his professionalism, humility, and hunger to learn.
“Kurt brought energy, reliability, and respect to every task. We knew early on he was going places,” said Provost Allyson L. Watson, who mentored Adams during his time in the office and all four years of his undergraduate experience. “He soaked up every lesson and carried himself like a leader.”
Inspired by his father’s recovery, Kurt Adams hopes to help others take their first
steps toward healing. (Photo by Glenn Beil/FAMU Office of Communications)
Adam's drive for excellence was equally evident in the classroom. Phyllis Reaves, Ph.D., his favorite professor who taught his anatomy & physiology I course, describes him as a standout scholar among his peers.
“It has been a privilege to teach Kurt Adams,” said Reaves. “His intellectual curiosity, work ethic, and compassion for knowledge set him apart as a true leader among his peers. I have no doubt that Kurt will make meaningful contributions to the scientific and healthcare communities in the years ahead.”
Beyond the classroom, Adams thrived in service and leadership. In spring 2024, he became a proud member of the Alpha Xi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated—a brotherhood that deepened his commitment to excellence and uplifted him during challenging times.
“There were semesters where balancing classes, work, and fraternity life pushed me to my limits,” he said. “But every time I stepped on campus, I felt grounded. I knew I was part of something bigger.”
Kurt Adams surrounded by his family as they visit FAMU's Office of the President before
watching him receive his degree from "the highest of seven hills."
(Photo by Glenn Beil/FAMU Communications)
His love for sports and passion for healing never left. He found ways to connect those interests with his studies in health sciences and leaned into mentorship and professional development, preparing himself for the next level.
That next level is now official.
This May, Adams will walk across the stage at FAMU’s commencement with confidence, clarity, and a calling. Soon after, he’ll begin the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Emory University, with dreams of one day working on the sidelines for a professional sports team.
“FAMU gave me more than an education—it gave me direction,” he said. “I came in wide-eyed. I’m leaving with a mission.”
As he walks across the stage, Adams won’t just be receiving a degree—he’ll be continuing a journey that started with a single step, inspired by a father’s recovery, and shaped by a campus that believed in him.
And that journey is only just beginning.
Follow more Rattler graduation journeys at famunews.com.
Media Contacts:
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
Deidre P. Williams
Director of Communications, Office of the Provost
deidre.williams@famu.edu
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