FAMU Congratulates Former Student Byron Donalds on Historic Election as Florida's First Black Governor
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (Nov. 4, 2026) — Florida A&M University (FAMU) congratulates former student and U.S. Congressman Byron Donalds on his historic election as Florida's first Black governor. His victory marks a significant milestone in Florida history as he prepares to become the state's first Black chief executive.
FAMU President Marva B. Johnson, J.D., congratulated Donalds on his achievement and reflected on the university's longstanding commitment to developing leaders who make meaningful contributions to society.
"On behalf of the entire Florida A&M University family, I congratulate Governor-elect Byron Donalds on his election as Florida's first Black governor. This is a historic milestone for our state and a testament to what becomes possible when preparation meets the call to lead and serve,” said Johnson. “Since our founding, FAMU's 1890 land-grant mission has been to cultivate that kind of leadership. We teach our students to think critically, we develop their capacity to lead, and we prepare them to answer the call to serve. Governor-elect Donalds spent formative years at the College of Love and Charity, and we are proud that he is part of that legacy. We wish him every success as he prepares to serve the people of Florida, and FAMU stands ready to partner with his administration to expand opportunity for every Floridian."
A native of Brooklyn, New York, Donalds attended FAMU for three years before completing his bachelor's degree at Florida State University. His professional career includes experience in banking, insurance and financial services, followed by service in the Florida House of Representatives and the U.S. House of Representatives, where he represented Florida's 19th Congressional District.
Donalds recently returned to FAMU during his gubernatorial campaign to participate in a Student Government Association town hall at Lee Hall. The event provided students with an opportunity to engage directly with a candidate for Florida's highest elected office and ask questions about issues affecting their communities and the state.
During the discussion, Donalds reflected on his time as a FAMU student and the relationships he established on campus.
"I went to FAMU from '96 to '99. I stayed at the Paddyfote dormitory. I know it doesn't exist anymore, but I got to meet a lot of people when I came to FAMU, so it's good to be back," Donalds said during the event.
The town hall was part of a student-led initiative to promote civic engagement, encourage informed dialogue and provide opportunities for students to interact with individuals seeking public office.
As Florida's only public historically Black university and an 1890 land-grant institution, FAMU has a longstanding tradition of preparing students for leadership across government, business, education and public service. Donalds' election represents another historic milestone connected to the university's educational legacy and the influence of the Highest of Seven Hills on individuals who have pursued careers in public leadership.
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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.
Main Contact
Alonda Thomas
alonda.thomas@famu.edu
