From Queens to Commencement: FAMU Law Grad Champions Community Through Sports
Tallahasee, Fl -- From a modest neighborhood in Queens, New York, to the graduation stage at Florida A&M University College of Law, Francis Aggrey’s journey is a powerful story of resilience, purpose, and transformation. A first-generation Ghanaian American, Aggrey didn’t just earn his law degree with honors—he blew life into his campus, creating a legacy that will uplift FAMU law students for years to come.
Raised by immigrant parents who sacrificed everything for his future, Aggrey grew up with a deep understanding of perseverance. He channeled his family’s sacrifice into academic excellence and an unrelenting drive to give back. When choosing a law school, the SUNY (State University of New York) Oswego graduate chose purpose.
“I wanted to grow in an environment that looks like me,” he said before sharing that he selected FAMU Law for its mission, culture, and legacy.
Aggrey excelled academically, earning multiple scholarships and serving as a teaching assistant for constitutional law. But his most remarkable impact came through a surprising avenue: intramural sports. During legal briefs and lectures, he noticed a need—a way to relieve stress and build camaraderie among students.
FAMU College of Law students bond with one another through intramural sports revived
by their peer Francis Aggrey. (Photo special to FAMU)
So, when presented with the opportunity to revive the dormant Intramurals Club, he did not hesitate. A simple kickball game turned into a movement. Under his leadership, the club hosted packed events like 3-on-3 basketball tournaments, volleyball matches, and the “Rattler Bowl” flag football game. These moments offered something invaluable to his classmates: connection, joy, and a break from the intensity of law school.
Francis Aggrey and an intramural sport participant pose after a win. (Photo special
to FAMU)
“Francis was an outstanding president of intramural sports, excelling in securing funding and revitalizing the club. I’m incredibly proud of his leadership and dedication,” said Marlese Wells, intramural sports faculty advisor.
“He brought joy back to campus,” one student shared. “He reminded us that we’re not just future lawyers—we’re a community.”
First-generation Ghanian American Francis Aggrey envisions a legal career that blends
entrepreneurship and advocacy. (Photo special to FAMU)
Aggrey’s leadership and vision were also recognized on a national level. In 2024, he was named a Black Entertainment and Sports Lawyers Association (BESLA) Scholar, attending the organization’s annual conference in Los Cabos in November. The experience connected him with accomplished legal professionals. It also solidified his interest in sports and entertainment law—where he hopes to make a lasting impact by advocating for fairness, integrity, and opportunity.
“For the first time, I saw myself in that future,” he recalled.
Mentorship was central to his growth, especially under the guidance of Professor Patricia Broussard, who challenged and empowered him. She did not just teach him constitutional law—she taught him to own his brilliance. That mentorship fueled his desire to pour into others, becoming a mentor himself to younger students at FAMU Law.
Looking ahead, Aggrey envisions a legal career that blends entrepreneurship with advocacy. He dreams of building a firm that protects the interests of Black creatives and uses law as a tool for fairness in the U.S. and Ghana. His passion is evident: to open doors for others and ensure they feel seen, supported, and empowered.
As he prepares for the New York Bar Exam, Aggrey leaves behind more than a résumé—he leaves a movement. One grounded in servant leadership, community building, and the belief that joy belongs in every part of the journey.
“My parents left everything behind so I could stand here today,” he says. “I carry their sacrifice in everything I do. I want every kid in a place like Queens to know—there's no dream too distant when you climb with your community.”
Media Contact:
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
