Nike Honors FAMU in the 2025 Yardrunners 6.0 Air Max 95 Campaign
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida A&M University’s iconic orange and green took center stage in Nike’s latest celebration of HBCUs. Nike’s 2025 Yardrunners 6.0 Air Max 95 campaign highlights HBCU history, culture, and its alumni through footwear design.
The Hill came alive as Nike’s Yardrunners activation took over FAMU’s campus—celebrating
culture, creativity, and the power of HBCU pride.(Photo by Glenn Beil/FAMU Communications)
Now in its sixth year, the program unveiled what Sneaker News describes as its “most ambitious release yet.” The new collection includes four Air Max 95 designs, each dedicated to a different HBCU.
“The NIKE YardRunners partnership and the release of the Air Max 95 FAMU Edition represent far more than just a shoe. They stand as a powerful symbol of legacy, culture, and innovation,” said Brandi Tatum Fedrick, Ph.D., acting vice president of University Advancement and executive director of the FAMU Foundation. “This historic collaboration honors the enduring spirit of Florida A&M University, where style meets purpose, and inspires the next generation of Rattlers to dream boldly, walk proudly, and carry FAMU’s legacy with them every step of the way.”
The 2025 campaign lineup pays tribute to Florida A&M University, Spelman College, Norfolk State University and Morehouse College. FAMU’s shoe features bold green reptilian textures, a clear nod to the Rattler spirit.
The partnership was coordinated by FAMU’s Office of University Advancement, Office of Communications, Student Affairs and League Twenty Two, in collaboration with Nike North America. The project also included a campus photoshoot featuring student-athletes, current students, and members of the world-renowned “Marching 100.”
FAMU alumni Melanie Mitchell and Caitlin Davis kept the crowd engaged, showcasing
their Rattler pride as hosts of the event. (Photo by Glenn Beil/FAMU Communications)
“Being featured in Nike’s Yardrunners campaign was an incredible honor, not just for me but for the legacy of the ‘Marching 100,’” said Shelby Chipman, Ph.D., director of bands. “We stand on the shoulders of giants, and every time we take the field, we carry forward a tradition of Black excellence, discipline, and unmatched creativity. This Nike partnership wasn’t just about performance; it was about purpose.”
To celebrate the campaign’s debut, Nike hosted a Yardrunners Launch Event during Set Friday on FAMU’s campus. The event drew hundreds of students, alumni, and community members vying for a chance to pickup their shoes.
FAMU alumni Melanie Mitchell and Caitlin Davis hosted the event, bringing their signature energy and Rattler pride to the stage. The celebration also featured a high-energy performance by Tallahassee’s own Luh Tyler, whose homegrown talent electrified the crowd and added a local touch to the national campaign.
Tallahassee’s own Luh Tyler brought local flavor to the national celebration. (Photo by Glenn Beil/FAMU Communications)
“The Nike Yardrunners activation served as an event that went beyond its purpose to
honor HBCU traditions and artistic expression. The activation provided our campus
and community with a chance to meet each other while participating in activities that
matched the vibrant atmosphere of our university. I loved getting a pair of the new
FAMU yard runner shoe release. I'm extremely happy to see Nike continue to show up
for HBCUs,” said Kennedy Williams, vice president of the Student Government Association.
The 2025 Nike Yardrunners Air Max 95 Collection released through Nike on the SNKRS app and select Tallahassee Hibbett retailers. Available in men’s sizing, each pair retails for $200
Media Contact:
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
Christina Compere-Minor
Digital+Social Media Manager
christina1.compere@famu.edu
