FAMU Made: At 19, Alyse Shepherd is Already Charting a Path to Healthcare Leadership
At 17, Florida A&M University felt like stepping into the unknown for Alyse Shepherd. At 19, it feels like home.
The Houston native will graduate this spring with a degree in general health science, making her the youngest member of the Class of 2026. But her journey to commencement didn’t begin on The Hill. It started years earlier, in classrooms where she was already earning college credit.
“I actually got my associate’s degree in high school,” Shepherd said. “Why pay for the exact same classes later when you can get them done early?”
That early start allowed Shepherd to fast-track her undergraduate experience at FAMU. Raised in a family where education and HBCU pride run deep, her path to FAMU felt less like a decision and more like a continuation of legacy.
“My mom and aunt attended FAMU, and my grandmother went to Southern University,” Shepherd said. “When I toured different HBCUs, I just fell in love with FAMU. It was the campus, the culture, and the way students lead.”
Alyse Shepherd and her mother Alicia Shepherd both can call FAMU 'my alma mater.'
(Photo special to FAMU)
Shepherd’s mom Alicia Shepherd was more than glad that her only child chose her alma mater.
“Our family shares a proud legacy with FAMU and seeing her continue that tradition while forging her own path makes this milestone even more meaningful. The university has poured so much into her, not only academically, but in shaping her confidence, leadership, and sense of purpose,” she said.
Initially drawn to nursing, Shepherd pivoted after realizing her strengths and interests extended beyond bedside care. With both parents holding doctorates in business, she decided combining healthcare with administration was more her lane.
Now, she has her sights set on becoming a healthcare executive, ideally concentrating on adolescent health.
“I want to focus on quality improvement and give back to kids and teens,” she said. “Being able to lead in a space that helps youth is where I want to make an impact.”
Shepherd plans to continue her education at FAMU, applying to the university’s master’s program in healthcare administration.
Alyse Shepherd plans to apply for graduate school at FAMU so the legacy can continue.
(Photo special to FAMU)
A campus life of service and sisterhood
While her academic journey moved quickly, Shepherd made sure her campus experience didn’t pass her by. She immersed herself in organizations that stretched her perspective and deepened her sense of community.
Her involvement includes Army ROTC, the Texas Club, Health Science Professionals, the National Council of Negro Women, Sister Sister and the Global Legal Empowerment Brigade. Through these spaces, she participated in community service efforts ranging from food bank initiatives to reading programs for children and campus beautification projects.
And then there were the moments that were just flat out fun.
One of her most memorable experiences came when she stepped into the spotlight as a “Diamond for a Day,” performing with the university’s majorette line “Diamonds of FAMU” during a football game.
“I like the lights, camera, action,” she said. “I actually was the captain of my majorette dance team in high school before attending FAMU, so this was a great experience to be able to continue my dancing career without being in the organization.”
Even as she prepares to cross the commencement stage, Shepherd is still saying yes to new experiences. Just days after graduation, she will travel to Jamaica on a service-learning trip with FAMU Housing, where students will engage in agricultural and community-based work.
“I’m excited to experience a different culture, meet new people and give back,” she said. “I’m really looking forward to it.”
As the youngest in her graduating class, Alyse Shepherd has plenty of gems to share
for those who plan to come after her. (Photo special to FAMU)
Advice from a graduate who did it early
For Shepherd, finishing college at 19 comes with perspective, one she’s ready to share with those just beginning their higher education journey.
“Go to class. That’s the main thing,” she said with a laugh. “But also, be yourself. Don’t let anyone change who you are or shift how you feel about your values and morals.”
She also encourages students to take advantage of dual enrollment opportunities and to be intentional about their circle.
“Pick your friends and the people you socialize with very wisely,” she said.
Looking back, Shepherd recalls the uncertainty she felt arriving on campus as a teenager, navigating independence for the first time as an only child over 10 hours from home.
“I didn’t know if I could do it,” she said. “But now, I’m so glad my mom dropped me off here at FAMU.”
Two years later, that uncertainty has been replaced with confidence and a vision for her next steps.
And while she may be among the youngest in her graduating class, Shepherd’s experience proves that preparation isn’t measured in years.
For her mother, that growth has been beautiful to witness.
“This moment is both deeply emotional and incredibly fulfilling. Watching Alyse graduate from Florida A&M University as the youngest in her class is a testament to her discipline, focus, and unwavering commitment to her goals,” Alicia Shepherd said. “As she steps into her next chapter, I don’t just wish success for her; I wish impact. I want her to lead with integrity, serve with compassion, and use her gifts to improve the lives of others, particularly in healthcare.”
Media Contact
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
