Florida A&M University Announces Acclaimed Entrepreneur, Filmmaker and Marketing Executive Tirrell D. Whittley as Summer 2026 Commencement Speaker
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida A&M University (FAMU) has selected distinguished alumnus, entrepreneur, filmmaker and media executive Tirrell D. Whittley as the keynote speaker for its Summer 2026 Commencement Ceremony on Friday, July 31, at 4 p.m. in the Alfred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center.
Whittley, founder and chief executive officer of LIQUID SOUL, one of the nation's leading culturally driven marketing and advertising agencies, will address graduates as they celebrate a significant milestone in their academic journeys. His return to campus is especially meaningful as his youngest daughter, Taylor Whittley, will be among the graduates crossing the commencement stage, earning both her bachelor's degree and Master of Business Administration degree, summa cum laude.
“Florida A&M University has a proud legacy of developing leaders who excel in their chosen fields while creating pathways for others to succeed,” said President Marva B. Johnson, J.D. “Tirrell Whittley embodies the very best of the Rattler spirit. Through his entrepreneurial leadership, creative innovation, and commitment to service, he has built an extraordinary career while opening doors and elevating communities along the way. His journey reflects the power of a FAMU education and the impact of purpose-driven leadership. We are honored to welcome him back to his alma mater to share his experiences and inspire the next generation of Rattlers to lead, innovate, and serve.”
A graduate of FAMU's School of Business and Industry, Whittley earned a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting, graduating cum laude before launching a successful corporate career that included leadership roles at SAP America, Inc., one of the world's premier enterprise software companies.
In 2001, he founded LIQUID SOUL, which has grown into a nationally recognized agency with offices in Atlanta, Los Angeles and Dallas. Under his leadership, the firm has partnered with some of the world's most recognizable brands, including Disney, AT&T, Walmart, Amazon, Warner Bros., ESPN, HBO and NBCUniversal. The agency has supported marketing campaigns for more than 300 feature films, including “Black Panther,” “Girls Trip,” “42: The Jackie Robinson Story” and “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.”
Beyond marketing and advertising, Whittley has established himself as an accomplished filmmaker and producer. His credits include the NAACP Image Award-winning documentary "Amazing Grace," featuring Aretha Franklin, as well as "Brian Banks," "Waterboyz" and "Little Brother." He is a member of both the Producers Guild of America and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
His contributions to business, entertainment and community service have earned numerous accolades, including Atlanta Business League's Entrepreneur of the Year Award, induction into the FAMU School of Business and Industry Hall of Fame and recognition as a two-time Georgia Titan 100 honoree. He currently serves as vice chairman of the FAMU Foundation and is a member of 100 Black Men of Atlanta.
"Florida A&M University has been woven into the fabric of my family's story for decades. It shaped my career, introduced me to lifelong relationships and instilled values that continue to guide me today. It is an incredible honor to return to FAMU and address the next generation of Rattler leaders,” said Whitley. “Seeing my daughter Kennedi graduate in 2023 and now having the opportunity to address the Summer 2026 class while my daughter Taylor crosses the stage is a truly full-circle moment. I look forward to sharing a message that encourages them to embrace opportunity, trust their preparation and never be afraid to create their own path."
Whittley's ties to FAMU span generations. His wife, Kristen, is a FAMU alumna and his college sweetheart. His twin sister is also a graduate, and his nephew is a current student. His oldest daughter, Kennedi, graduated summa cum laude from FAMU in 2023. Now, with Taylor joining the ranks of FAMU alumni, the Whittley family's connection to the University continues to grow.
For more information about Summer 2026 Commencement, visit www.famu.edu/students/commencement
Media Contact
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
