FAMU to Host ‘Shadow a Rattler Day’ and Youth of the Year Luncheon for Boys & Girls Club Members
TALLAHASSEE, FL – On Monday, April 7, 2025, Florida A&M University (FAMU) will welcome over 100 Boys & Girls Club members to campus for Shadow a Rattler Day, an immersive experience designed to introduce high school students to college life.
This event serves as Day 2 of the three-day Florida Boys & Girls Clubs Youth of the Year Competition, which will take place in Tallahassee this year. Participants will indulge in an immersive experience to introduce the transition from high school to college life.
“We are thrilled to welcome such remarkable young leaders from all over Florida to Tallahassee. It’s an incredible opportunity for these inspiring youth to share their stories and showcase their achievements. We’re excited to have them experience the rich culture and vibrant community of our capital city. Tallahassee has so much to offer, and we couldn’t be prouder to host this event and support the next generation of leaders,” Kacy Dennis, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Big Bend CEO
Shadow a Rattler Day aims to demystify higher education by providing direct access to academic settings, student mentorship, and campus culture. Throughout the day, participants will:
- Attend real college classes alongside their mentors
- Tour FAMU’s historic campus
- Engage with SGA, student organizations, and performing arts groups
- Learn about admissions, scholarships, and campus life and
- Participate in interactive discussions with faculty and student leaders
Devin Nobles, the Shadow a Rattler event organizer, states, “There is no investment more certain than investing in our youth. I curated this event with the hope that by the end of this program, our team would incite a passion that leads these students to see themselves at FAMU, another HBCU, or simply on the path to higher education.”
FAMU student government officials, university leadership, and community engagement teams will play an active role in the event, engaging students and sharing insights about academic success, scholarships, and career pathways.
A Special Luncheon to Celebrate Achievement
The day will include in a celebratory luncheon honoring all participants and spotlighting the remarkable journeys of the finalists. During this inspiring event, the 2025 Florida Youth of the Year will be officially named. This prestigious title is awarded to an exceptional young person who exemplifies leadership, service, academic excellence, and dedication to living a healthy lifestyle—all hallmarks of Boys & Girls Clubs’ mission.
The luncheon will bring together community leaders, university officials, and Club alumni to applaud these extraordinary youth and invest in their continued success.
Media Contact:
Rachel James-Terry
FAMU Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.d.james-terry@famu.edu
