FAMU Alumna Keisha Lance Bottoms Makes History as First Black Woman Elected Governor in the United States of America

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (Nov. 4, 2026) — Florida A&M University (FAMU) proudly congratulates alumna Keisha Lance Bottoms on her historic election as governor of Georgia, becoming the first Black woman elected to lead a state in the United States.

Bottoms, a 1991 FAMU graduate and former mayor of Atlanta, her victory marks another milestone in a distinguished career that has taken her from local government to the White House and now to the highest executive office in the state of Georgia.

FAMU President Marva B. Johnson, J.D., celebrated the historic achievement and its significance for the university and the nation.

"Today, we celebrate an extraordinary moment in American history and an exceptional daughter of Florida A&M University. Governor-elect Keisha Lance Bottoms, the first woman and the first Black governor of Georgia, has shown that leadership grounded in courage, conviction and a commitment to service can break barriers and inspire generations,” said Johnson. “FAMU’s mission is grounded in our 1890 land-grant designation to open doors that were closed to too many, and her achievement shows what our students can accomplish when they walk through those doors with the academic foundation, leadership development and spirit of service they gain here. From the Highest of Seven Hills to the highest office in Georgia, her journey reflects the transformative power of a FAMU education and reminds every Rattler that there are no limits to what they can achieve. The entire Rattler family is immensely proud of her, and we congratulate her on making history."

A native of Atlanta, Bottoms earned her bachelor's degree in broadcast journalism from FAMU before receiving her Juris Doctor from Georgia State University College of Law. Her career has included service as a magistrate judge, member of the Atlanta City Council and the 60th mayor of Atlanta, a position she held from 2018 to 2022.

During her tenure as mayor, Bottoms gained national prominence as she led Atlanta through the COVID-19 pandemic and a period of heightened national conversations about racial justice, public safety and economic opportunity.

In 2022, President Joe Biden appointed Bottoms as senior advisor to the president for public engagement, where she also led the White House Office of Public Engagement. In that role, she helped strengthen connections between the administration and communities, organizations and stakeholders across the country.

Throughout her career, Bottoms has maintained strong ties to her alma mater. She has often credited her FAMU experience with helping shape her confidence, work ethic and approach to leadership. During a return visit to the university's School of Journalism & Graphic Communication in 2021, she reflected on the potential of FAMU students and graduates.

"We are brilliant, we are hard-working, we are the examples of what can be when you give students the appropriate resources and attention," Bottoms said during her visit.

Her historic achievement underscores the enduring impact of a FAMU education and the university's commitment to preparing graduates to lead, serve and make a difference on the national stage.

Her historic election adds to FAMU's longstanding legacy of preparing graduates to serve as leaders in government, business, education, science and communities around the world.

As Florida's only public historically Black university and an 1890 land-grant institution, FAMU has remained committed to expanding access to educational opportunities and developing graduates equipped to make meaningful contributions to society.

Bottoms' achievement also comes as FAMU continues to earn national recognition for academic excellence and student success. The university is ranked No. 79 among the nation's Top Public Schools by U.S. News & World Report. FAMU also earned the No. 1 ranking among all HBCUs in Niche's 2027 Best Colleges rankings.

From the classrooms of FAMU to the governor's office in Georgia, Bottoms' journey reflects the university's enduring commitment to its motto, "Excellence with Caring," and the transformative power of a FAMU education.

Her election represents a historic achievement for the nation and a proud moment for Rattlers everywhere.

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About Florida A&M University

Founded in 1887, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) is Florida's only public historically Black university and an 1890 land-grant institution. Located in Tallahassee, FAMU is nationally recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, research, innovation and student success. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs and is dedicated to preparing students to become leaders and change agents in their communities and around the world.

 

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