A&M Magazine Highlights A Legacy in Motion: FAMU Honors Its History While Building Its Future
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida A&M University’s Summer 2026 edition of A&M Magazine celebrates the people, traditions and achievements that define the Rattler experience while showcasing a university building momentum for its next chapter. From student success and groundbreaking research to historic anniversaries and a new era of leadership, this issue captures the enduring spirit of FAMU and its commitment to excellence with caring.
“Every story in this edition reflects a different dimension of what makes Florida A&M University extraordinary – from the experiences of our students and the discoveries advancing our research mission to the traditions and trailblazers who have shaped our legacy,” said Chief Marketing & Communications Officer Alonda Thomas, Ph.D. “Together, these stories remind us that FAMU’s greatest strength is its people and that our proud history continues to inspire the possibilities ahead.”
At the center of this edition is the University’s progress under the leadership of President Marva B. Johnson, J.D., who reflects on her first year in office and the work underway to strengthen FAMU’s future. The University’s research expenditures have grown 80.7 percent, from $47.1 million in fiscal year 2021 to $85.1 million in fiscal year 2025. FAMU also secured $109.75 million in legislative funding, including significant investments in the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering and a new Chemical and Biological Research Laboratory Center. These milestones reflect a broader commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, institutional accountability and long-term sustainability.
The issue also brings the FAMU experience to life through a special feature on the University’s selection for Season 17 of The College Tour. Ten students and recent graduates share their personal journeys, offering an inside look at the academic programs, career preparation, campus involvement and sense of belonging that make FAMU distinctive. Among them is graduate student Dillon R. Ford, whose work in plant and food science offers a contemporary expression of FAMU’s historic land-grant mission. Through his graduate research in hydroponic growing systems and food safety, along with his establishment of the First Fruits Garden on campus, Ford demonstrates how the University’s agricultural roots continue to inspire hands-on learning, scientific discovery, sustainability and service to communities. His story reflects the many ways FAMU students are carrying the institution’s legacy forward while preparing to address the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
Several landmark anniversaries highlight FAMU’s enduring contributions to education, healthcare, communications and athletics. The College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences celebrates 75 years of preparing healthcare professionals, researchers and public health leaders. The Institute of Public Health marks 30 years of advancing research and improving health outcomes, particularly in underserved and rural communities. Meanwhile, WANMcelebrates 50 years of broadcasting, storytelling and hands-on learning that have helped generations of students develop their voices and launch careers in media.
The magazine also celebrates the legacy of Rattler Athletics as the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame marks its 50th anniversary, honoring the student-athletes and trailblazers whose accomplishments have helped shape the University’s proud athletic tradition. A profile of alumnus and head football coach Quinn Gray Sr. explores his return to FAMU and his vision for building a program grounded in accountability, leadership, competitive excellence and student-athlete development.
Beyond these featured stories, readers will find a celebration of multigenerational FAMU pride, highlights from campus life, updates on university leadership and a tribute to members of the Rattler family whose lives and contributions will not be forgotten. Together, these stories connect the University’s rich history with the people who continue to advance its mission.
The Summer 2026 edition of A&M Magazine is ultimately a celebration of progress rooted in purpose. It honors the generations who built FAMU, recognizes the students and scholars shaping its present, and looks toward a future defined by opportunity, discovery and impact. Through every story, the message remains clear: Florida A&M University’s greatest strength is its people, and its legacy continues to move forward with every generation of Rattlers.
View the full digital edition here. For more information, visit www.famu.edu or follow @FAMU_1887.
Media Contact:
Alonda Thomas, Ph.D.
alonda.thomas@famu.edu
