Florida A&M University Opens Nominations for the 2026 FAMU Under 40 Awards
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida A&M University (FAMU) is proud to announce the call for nominations for the 2026 FAMU Under 40 Awards, a celebration recognizing the young alumni who have carried the institution’s motto of “Excellence with Caring” into their professional, philanthropic, and civic engagement.
Presented by the Office of Communications in partnership with the Office of University Advancement, this prestigious recognition highlights outstanding Rattlers under the age of 40 who exemplify FAMU’s legacy of leadership, innovation, and service.
“Florida A&M University produces talented innovators who graduate from the Highest of Seven Hills and waste no time placing their mark on the world through their career ambitions, service to their community, and philanthropy to their alma mater,” said Alonda Thomas, Ph.D., FAMU vice president and chief marketing and communications officer. “Our young alumni are making a tangible difference across the globe, and we are honored to recognize their achievements as a continuation of their FAMU story.”
Nomination Criteria
To be considered for the 2026 cohort, nominees must meet the following requirements:
- Be an official graduate of Florida A&M University
- Has earned a FAMU degree prior to 2021
- Be under the age of 40 as of October 1, 2026
- Has donated a minimum of $600 to FAMU within the last five years
- Available to pay a $650 induction fee and attend the award ceremony, if selected
Event Details
- Event Name: FAMU Under 40
- Date: October 22, 2026
- Time: 7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
- Location: Gaither Gymnasium
Selected honorees will also receive early access to purchase event tickets and tables following the August selection deliberation.
Important Dates
- Nominations Open: July 10, 2026
- Nominations Close: July 24, 2026
- Induction Fee Due: August 28, 2026
This annual tradition is part of FAMU’s broader mission to uplift alumni while encouraging continued philanthropic support and engagement with the University. The FAMU Under 40 Awards spotlights individual accomplishments while serving as an inspiration for current students, supporters and fellow alumni alike.
Click here to nominate a Rattler who’s shaping the future—today.
For questions or additional information, please contact:
Florida A&M University
Office of Communications
Lee Hall Suite 200
1601 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd
Tallahassee, FL 32307
850.599.3413
communications@famu.edu
