FAMU Made: Behind Venom, Jayden Patterson was, seen by Thousands. Known by Few.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - For three years, thousands of Florida A&M University students, alumni and fans cheered for Venom without ever knowing the person inside the suit.
They knew the energy, electrifying dance moves and unforgettable halftime performances. They knew the hugs, high-fives and joyful interactions that became staples of football Saturdays and campus celebrations.
They knew Venom.
Jayden “JB” Patterson brings the energy as Venom, Florida A&M University’s beloved
mascot. Patterson served as Venom for three years, beginning his journey in August
2023 and representing FAMU at games, special events and appearances across the country.
(Photo courtesy of Jayden Patterson)
They just didn't know Jayden "JB" Patterson.
"I always felt like Peter Parker," Patterson said with a laugh. "No one knows who the mascot is."
Anonymity became one of his greatest gifts.
"Outside the suit, I'm very reserved," Patterson said. "But in the mascot suit, I'm really unapologetically myself."
Jayden “JB” Patterson celebrates his FAMU journey in front of the university’s iconic
“The Rattler” statue. (Photo courtesy of Jayden Patterson)
Finding His Place
Originally from Orlando, Patterson transferred to FAMU from Grambling State University in 2022. Both of his parents are Rattler alumni, and FAMU had long been part of his life through trips to the Florida Classic and stories of their time on the Hill.
Still, becoming a Rattler himself meant finding his own place.
"When you're a transfer student, you don't really have a clique," Patterson said. "I knew people, but I didn't really have a friend group."
Venom and Lady Venom show their Rattler pride during a FAMU appearance at St. Petersburg
College. Jayden “JB” Patterson served as Venom for three years, representing Florida
A&M University at events and appearances on and off campus. (Photo courtesy of Jayden
Patterson)
That began to change when his roommate encouraged him to join Strikers, the University's spirited student organization dedicated to promoting school pride and engaging the campus community.
Long before arriving at FAMU, Patterson created dance videos and entertained people throughout Orlando. His roommate recognized that energy immediately.
"He knew I danced all the time," Patterson said. "He told me, 'You need to be a Striker.'"
Joining the organization pushed him beyond his comfort zone, giving him the community he had been searching for.
"Joining Strikers helped me get out of my shell," he said. "I was really quiet before. It taught me how to connect with people."
The organization became more than another campus activity.
It became home.
A Lasting Impact
During the summer of 2023, a member of Striker sent Patterson a flyer announcing auditions for FAMU's mascot. Patterson had never considered becoming a mascot, but he decided to try.
The opportunity almost never happened.
Still relatively new to campus, Patterson found himself inside the Student Activities Center searching for the auditions. Unable to find the location, he figured he would simply head home.
Instead, he met the late Andre Green, director of Student Union Activities & New Student Orientation.
After learning why Patterson was there, Green didn't simply point him in the right
direction. He personally walked him to the office and introduced Patterson to the people he needed to meet.
"If it wasn't for him, I wouldn't have been the mascot," Patterson said. "I probably would've just gone home."
Only a short time later, Green died unexpectedly.
"I had just talked to him," Patterson said. "When he passed away, it really motivated me. Everything is meant to be. God had a plan for me. He had a purpose, and he helped put me on the path that changed my life."
Bringing Venom to Life
Patterson's first appearance as Venom came just weeks later during the Pro Football Hall of Fame Grand Parade in Canton, Ohio, celebrating the induction of former NFL cornerback and FAMU alumnus Ken Riley.
"It was random," Patterson said with a laugh. "I never auditioned to be a mascot before. Next thing I knew, I was in Ohio representing FAMU."
Venom brings Rattler spirit to the field during a Florida A&M University football
game. Jayden “JB” Patterson spent years behind the mask, using his energy, dance and
personality to entertain Rattlers and represent FAMU. (Photo courtesy of Jayden Patterson)
That unexpected opportunity grew into three years of Patterson showcasing FAMU spirit on some of the country’s biggest stages.
He appeared at the Orange Blossom Classic in Miami, the Florida Classic in Orlando, recruiting
events in Houston, a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Amazon in Tallahassee and a Comcast NBCUniversal event in New York's Times Square hosted by award-winning producer and
FAMU alumnus Will Packer.
Jayden “JB” Patterson connects with members of the FAMU National Alumni Association
Greater Orlando Chapter following his graduation from Florida A&M University. (Photo
courtesy of Jayden Patterson)
Whether dancing alongside the Marching "100" or entertaining fans before kickoff,
Patterson relied on spontaneity.
"I freestyled everything," he said. "I just went out there and had fun."
Videos of Venom's performances spread across social media, extending the mascot's visibility beyond Tallahassee. During Patterson's tenure, the Tallahassee Democrat recognized Venom as Florida's No. 1 college mascot in 2024.
Still, Patterson said recognition was never his motivation.
"I always wanted people to have fun," he said. "That's all I really cared about."
The Strength Behind the Spirit
While the FAMU community saw Venom's energy, few knew what Patterson was balancing behind the scenes.
As a teenager, he was diagnosed with viral meningitis, which he said later affected his learning in college. Patterson leaned on support from FAMU's Center for Disability Access and Resources (CeDAR), an academic coach, his family and Vice President for Student Affairs William E. Hudson Jr., Ph.D.
Jayden “JB” Patterson commemorates his graduation from Florida A&M University, marking the culmination of a memorable journey on the Hill filled with school spirit, service and Rattler pride. (Photo courtesy of Jayden Patterson)
"He has consistently demonstrated dedication, resilience and a strong willingness to learn," Hudson said. "As a student, he approaches challenges with a positive attitude, takes initiative, and maintains a commitment to continuous improvement."
The VP said those qualities also defined Patterson's service.
"As the Venom mascot, he has shown exceptional school spirit, professionalism, and leadership," Hudson said. "He embraces the responsibility of representing the university with enthusiasm and energy while engaging positively with students, alumni, and the community."
Balancing academics, performances, travel and work required discipline, but Patterson is quick to acknowledge those who helped him along the way.
"I wasn't doing it by myself," he said. "I definitely had guidance."
Beyond the Suit
This past Summer, Patterson graduated and headed back to his hometown to join Disney College Program, where he hopes to build a career in entertainment and continue creating memorable experiences for others.
"I just want to continue making people happy," he said.
His advice to future Rattlers reflects the lessons he will carry from FAMU.
Venom brings the energy and Rattler spirit to the sidelines during a Florida A&M University football game, engaging fans and representing the pride and tradition of FAMU. (Photo courtesy of Jayden Patterson)
"Be authentically yourself.No one can tell you what's right for you. Stay true to who you are, stay close to
God and trust the journey. It might get hard sometimes, but there's always light at
the end of the tunnel," he expressed.
For Hudson, Patterson's journey represents something larger.
"Jayden is a dynamic young man who epitomizes Rattler Pride," Hudson added. "Students like Jayden represent the greatness FAMU has to offer. FAMU can help students discover who they can become. I am proud of Jayden and his success."
Soon, another student will step into the Venom suit. Someone else will lead the cheers, dance across Bragg Memorial Stadium and create memories for the next generation of Rattlers.
But Patterson's legacy was never built solely on performances, viral videos or recognition.
Jayden “JB” Patterson celebrates earning his degree from Florida A&M University surrounded
by family and loved ones. His graduation marked the culmination of a FAMU journey
that included three years representing the university as Venom. (Photo courtesy of
Jayden Patterson)
It was built by a transfer student searching for belonging, a mentor whose kindness changed his path and a University community that helped him persevere.
For three unforgettable years, the FAMU community knew Venom.
Now, they know the Rattler who helped bring the spirit of FAMU to life.
Jayden Patterson Farewell Video
Media Contact:
Ashley Flete
Senior Communications Specialist
ashley1.flete@famu.edu
