Message from the President
Dear Rattler Family and Friends,
It is my privilege to introduce the FY 2024–2025 Annual Report of the Florida A&M University Foundation, Inc. Although I did not serve as President during the period covered in this report, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to Interim President Dr. Timothy Beard, the Foundation Board, and our Advancement team for their steady leadership and steadfast service during a year of transition for our University.
This report reflects the enduring strength of the Rattler Nation. While total fundraising was lower than the prior fiscal year, the generosity you continued to show—your gifts, your advocacy, your belief in our mission—remains a powerful reminder that FAMU’s greatest asset has always been its people. Your commitment fuels the work we do and the futures we shape.
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With Rattler Pride,
Marva Johnson, J.D.
President
Florida A&M University
FAMU: Best of Both Worlds
Message from the Vice President
Dear Supporters and Friends of Florida A&M University,
It is my privilege to present the Florida A&M University (FAMU) Foundation’s 2024–2025 Annual Report. This year’s achievements reflect the collective strength of our Rattler community, our donors, alumni, corporate partners, and friends, whose generosity continues to advance the mission of excellence that defines FAMU.
Through your collective efforts, the Foundation raised just over $17 million during fiscal year 2025. These contributions are making a tangible difference in the lives of our students by expanding scholarships, supporting innovative academic programs, and enhancing opportunities that enrich the overall FAMU experience. Through your gifts, we are empowering the next generation of innovators, leaders, and changemakers who will continue FAMU’s legacy of service and impact.
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With gratitude and Rattler pride,
Brandi Tatum-Fedrick, Ed.D.
Acting Vice President, University Advancement
Executive Director, FAMU Foundation, Inc.
Florida A&M University
Financial Highlights
Fiscal Year 2024 - 2025
Results by Number of Donors
Results by Gifts
Total Gifts & Commitments: $17,026,535
(Includes cash, pledges, and planned gifts)
Endowment Performance
Financial Position
(As of 6/30/2025)
Net Position
Letter from Board Chair
Dear Donors and Friends of the FAMU Foundation,
It is my honor to share this year’s Annual Report on behalf of the Florida A&M University Foundation, Inc. Board of Directors. As we reflect on Fiscal Year 2024–2025, we celebrate a year of renewed momentum, strengthened partnerships, and continued progress toward advancing the mission of Florida A&M University.
Your generosity has been the driving force behind our success. Together, we have expanded scholarship opportunities, enhanced academic programs, and supported initiatives that empower our students to achieve excellence. Every gift, whether large or small, has helped to ensure that FAMU continues to thrive as a leading institution committed to enhancing access, innovation, and impact.
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With deep appreciation,
Kenneth M. Neighbors
Chair, Board of Directors
Florida A&M University Foundation, Inc.
FAMU Accolades & Statistics
Ranked in the Top 100 for Public National Universities
The 2025 U.S. News & World Report ranked FAMU among the Top 100 National Public Universities.
Highest Ranked Public HBCU
For the seventh consecutive year, FAMU is the highest ranked Public Historically Black College and University (HBCU).
#11 Producer of African-American Bachelor's Grads
FAMU is the #11 highest producer of African-American Bachelor's graduates in the nation, across all disciplines combined.
National Leader in Social Mobility
FAMU is ranked No. 22 in Social Mobility, a measure of the University's ability to transform the economic trajectory of our students, alumni, and their families.
14:1 Student to Faculty ratio
FAMU's small faculty-to-student ratio gives students increased access to learning and mentoring opportunities for a rewarding undergraduate and graduate experience.
Fulbright HBCU Institutional
Leader
The U.S. Department of State announced 20 HBCUs as “Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders” in recognition of their noteworthy engagement with the Fulbright Program during the 2024-25 academic year.
Strategic Undergraduate Degree Emphasis
54% of undergraduate degrees are awarded in programs of strategic emphasis.
Leader in Research & Student Opportunity
FAMU has earned dual recognition in the 2025 Carnegie Classifications as both a Research 2 (R2) university and an Opportunity College & University (OCU). This designation, given to just 27 institutions, recognizes excellence in both advancing research and expanding student opportunity.
Enrollment & Graduate Stats
FAMU hosts 100+ degree programs, boasting a total enrollment of 8,955 students in Fall 2023. 1,466 undergraduate degrees and 501 professional & graduate degrees were awarded in 2022-2023.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE YEAR
FAMU School of Business and Industry Partners with PGIM and PWC to launch the Investments and Analytics Lab
FAMU School of Business and Industry (SBI) celebrates the grand opening of its revamped Investments and Analytics Lab, made possible through the support of corporate partners, PGIM and PwC. PGIM has provided a $1 million gift over the course of five years to support SBI’s preparation of the next generation of business school graduates. Additionally, PWC has provided $100,000 for the purchase of the computers in the Investments and Analytics Lab.
FAMU School of Business and Industry Adds Three New Names to the SBI Big Board
The Florida A&M University (FAMU) School of Business and Industry (SBI) added the names of three alumni to its prestigious Big Board in a ceremony during the 2024 Homecoming week celebrations last week. The new Big Board inductees are Executive Vice President, Communications for FOX Sports Terri Hines, attorney Hilliard “Hill” Moore, and Fearless Fund co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Arian Simone.
FAMU’s 1887 Strikes: Day of Giving Rallies Philanthropy with 'Boots on the Ground'
FAMU officially launched its annual 1887 Strikes: Day of Giving, April 3–4, 2025, with a powerful call to action: “Boots on the Ground.” The good cause started on Thursday, April 3 at 9 a.m., and continued fundraising for 1,887 minutes in recognition of the University’s founding year of 1887.
“This year’s theme, ‘Boots on the Ground,’ focused on mobilizing the Rattler community to make a bold impact in support of our students, academia and athletics. It also reflected on our commitment to take action, stand in the gap for our students, and build a stronger future—together,” said former Vice President of University Advancement Anthony Neal, Ph.D.
Affinity Fundraising: “Affinity Groups Help Fuel FAMU's Record-Breaking Fundraising Success”
The bond between former FAMU classmates remains strong, long after they have graduated. That strength is reflected in the passionate giving of Affinity Groups as part of the University’s $17 million annual fundraising campaign. Affinity Groups donated money for scholarships for current and future students, as well as individual programs. Since 2017, Affinity fundraising has generated $5.4 million, an increase of more than $700,000 during the 2024-2025 fiscal year, according to Brandi Tatum-Fedrick, Ed.D., acting vice president of the Division of University Advancement and executive director of the FAMU Foundation, Inc.
SCHOLAR SPOTLIGHTS
(Swipe to view all students)
Jana Roberts
Classification: Junior
Hometown: Jacksonville, FL
Major: Business Administration
Incoming Year: Fall 2023
Name of Scholarship:
1999 Freshman Class Legacy
Motivational Quote:
"Go to war with the man in the mirror and don't come out until you win."
What impact has the scholarship had on your educational journey?
Scholarships have provided me with invaluable support throughout
my educational experience. Receiving this scholarship has helped me transition from working two jobs to one part-time job to support myself while attending school. This financial assistance has also granted me the free time I didn't originally have, allowing me to become more involved on campus and take full advantage of the various organizations and resources available.
Emmanuel Barnidele
Classification: 1st Year Grad Student
Hometown: Edo, Nigeria
Major: Architecture-Facilities Mgmnt.
Incoming Year: 2025
Name of Scholarship:
IFMA Student Scholarship
Motivational Quote:
"Do it afraid!"
What impact has the scholarship had on your educational journey?
Receiving this scholarship has had a profound impact on both my educational journey and personal growth. It has provided me with the financial relief to focus more on my studies and less on the financial burdens that often come with graduate education. This scholarship has given me the freedom to invest more time in research, academic projects, and professional development opportunities, which are all essential to my success.
Victor Akao
Classification: Graduate Student
Hometown: Ososo, Edo State, Nigeria
Major: Agricultural Sciences
Incoming Year: 2024
Name of Scholarship:
FAMU Rising
Motivational Quote:
"Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." - Albert Einstein
Why did you choose FAMU?
I chose FAMU because of cutting-edge research and the
opportunity to work closely with Dr. Muhummad Haseeb who is an experienced expert in biological control, especially in the area of identification and monitoring of pests.
What impact has the scholarship had on your educational journey?
Without scholarships, it would have been impossible for me to complete my first degree which is requirement for the master's degree, and I would not have been able to further my studies.
The Legacy Society
We extend our deepest gratitude to the generous donors who have made estate gifts to our beloved University. Your visionary contributions are more than just financial support; they are a lasting investment in the future of Florida A&M University (FAMU). These estate gifts ensure that our University will continue to provide excellence in education, foster innovation, and empower future generations of Rattlers to lead with purpose and passion.
As we look to the future, we invite all members of the FAMU community to consider including FAMU in your estate plans. You can make a lasting impact through a bequest, trust, or other planned gifts. It’s easy to get started through FreeWill, a simple, no-cost way to make your intentions known and support FAMU’s mission for generations ahead.
Thank you for believing in the future of FAMU. Your generosity truly makes a difference, and we look forward to your continued support in shaping the next chapter of our storied legacy.
INVEST IN FAMU TODAY
Alan B. Williams
Almeta Monroe-Turner
Amber Leigh Johnson
Andrea R. Jefferson-Saboor
Anita Christy Denson- Albritton*
Annie B. Pharr*
Anthony J. Range
Arturo Nunez
Audrey L. Simmons Smith
Ausey Johnson
Barbara M. Carey-Shuler
Brandi J. Tatum-Fedrick
Brodes H. Hartley, Jr.
Carolyn D. Jones
Charles D. Ramsey*
Charles Elliott Cain
Chastin Demar Hamilton
Cheryl Seals Mobley-Gonzalez
Corey Dante Brown
Courtney Marissa Kambobe
Craig Randall Watts II
Crystal L. Henderson
Daaim A. Shabazz
Deandre L. and Latrice Parks
DeAnthony Friday
Doris A. Jackson
Dorothy A. Holmes
Dryel L. Bartee*
D'Wanda Newton
Dwayne L. Simmons
Elana Justine Churchill
English Charday Fields
Freddie C. Young*
Georgette M. Daniels
Gilbert Alex Ford Jr.
Gwendolyn P. Sermon
Harris R. Wiltsher, Jr.
Henry M. Evans
Jahlisa K. Taylor
Janaya D. Washington
Jarvis Coleman
Jeannie B. Floyd
Jean-Rene N. Belizaire
Joe A. Carrol, Jr.
Karen E. Owens
Kathy Y. Times
Kenneth M. Neighbors
Kenneth R. Dukes
Kirkland D. Floyd
Krisita Edwards
Kristin Harper
Laquita C. Blockson
LaVita C. Sherman
Lenetra S. King
Leo P. Sam*
Lillian B. Granderson
Lynette Jeanell Wesley
Melissa Y. Wilson
Michele D. Belizaire
Mirion P. Bowers
Monica J. Williams Harris, Esq.
Naomi M. Shamatutu Dzikunu
Nelson J. Grillo, Jr.
Nicole Sheree Long
Nina Monee Reyes Williams
Otis L. Cliatt, II
Quiana Dominique Woodruff
Paula Saine
Richard Bernard McGriff
Rita Leigh Braswell
Rochelle Spencer
Ronald R. Coleman, Jr.
S. Barbara Hilyer
Sabrina Pritchett-Evans
Senovia L. Williams
Shakira Griffin
Shawnta S. Friday-Stroud
Shemirra Coleman
Shirley Q. Range
Sonia Francois
Tanya Lorrane Abrams
Thomas J. Brown, Jr.
Tishauna Monique Wilson
Tonya Denise Ardley
Tylana Byrd Hill
Valencia Cain
Vaniah Cenchrea Cunningham
Wayne F. Green
Willie Roger Edwards
Yolanda Brown
Zamira Michelle Thomas
30 Anonymous Gifts
(*Deceased)
Thank You for supporting FAMU's students!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your continued support of FAMU and its students. Your generosity is creating brighter futures and opening doors to countless opportunities. Together, we are shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Thank you for believing in our mission and making a real difference.
FAMU FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
(*Denotes ex-officio member)
OFFICERS
Chair
Kenneth M. Neighbors
Partner
McGuireWoods LLP
Vice Chair
Tirrell D. Whittley
CEO-Principal
Liquid Soul
Treasurer
Twuanna Munroe Ward
VP, US Networks Distribution
Revenue Accounting
Warner Bros. Discovery
Secretary
Chan Bryant Abney, Esq.
General Counsel & Director of HR
Gary, Williams, Parenti, Watson,
& Gary P.L.L.C.
BOARD MEMBERS
Angela C. Adderley
President, McDonald’s Franchisee
ACA Foods Corp. dba McDonald’s
Elaine E. Armster
Chief Sustainability Officer
Managing Partner
Linkscape360, LLC
Terry D. Arnold
Senior Vice President and
Chief Human Resources Officer
Southern Glazer’s Wine and Sprits
*Timothy L. Beard, Ph.D.
Interim University President
Florida A&M University
*W. Rebecca Brown
CFO/Vice President Finance and Administration
Florida A&M University
Gregory L. Clark
Vice President
Institutional Advancement & Executive Director, ASU Foundation
Alabama State University
Hosetta B. Coleman, SPHR
ED, Advancing Black Pathways JP Morgan Chase
*Jeffrey K. Francis
University Student Designee
Florida A&M University
Marcelia C. Freeman
Investor Relations & Product Mgmt. Clearlake Capital Group
Jemal O. Gibson
Regional Vice President
McKesson Medical-Surgical Division
Clifton A. Goins, IV
Principal, Business Development
Amazon
John L. Green, J.D., Ph.D., C.P.A.
John L. Green, CPA, Atty. At Law
Erica D. Hill
Vice President
Global Talent Acquisition
Monica Williams Harris, Esq.
Counsel - Labor and Employment
Cox Media Group
Billy B. Greer, IV, C.P.A.
Managing Director
PGIM Private Capital/
Prudential Financial, Inc.
Laurence A. Humphries
President & CEO
The Wellness Development Group, LLC
Greater Houston Market
*Mr. Curtis E. Johnson, Jr.
President
FAMU National Alumni Association
Chekesha C. Kidd
Founder and CEO
Kinumi, Inc.
Lenetra King, FACHE
Culture and Leadership Advisor/Managing Director
Watch Me EXCEL™
Lisa Rae LaBoo
CEO, Prosperity Investment Services, Inc.
Pres., Prosperity Real Estate, LLC
*Ebenezer T. Oriaku, Ph.D.
Faculty Senate Designee
Florida A&M University
Freddie Raines
Market Sales Executive – Houston
Capital One
T.J. Rose
Partner
Veritas Capital
*Brandi Tatum-Fedrick, Ed.D.
Assistant Vice President
G. Scott Uzzell
VP/GM
Nike of North America.
ERMERITUS BOARD MEMBERS
(^Denotes Deceased Emeritus Member)
Alfreda D. Blackshear, MD
^Cecil B. Keene
William J. Bryant, D.D.S., Sc.D.
Milton L. Jones, Jr.
COL (Ret.) Brodes Hartley, Jr., Chair
Thomas Jones, Jr.
^Betty S. Holzendorf
Harold L. Martin, MD
Joseph L. Webster, Sr., MD
MEET THE UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT TEAM
Division of University Advancement
Brandi Tatum-Fedrick
Acting VP, University Advancement
Executive Director, FAMU Foundation, Inc.
LaTosha Adams-Francis
Director, Financial Services
Kimberly Brown
Senior Fiscal Assistant /Event Assistant /Accounts Payable & Reconciliation /Cash Handling Coordinator
Tiffany Bryant
Director, Prospect Research/Prospect Management
Edwina Cobham
Graphics Specialist /Administrative Assistant
Christina Compere-Minor
Social Media Coordinator/Marketing & Communications
Andre Crumity
Senior Fiscal Assistant /Property Assistant /Accounts Receivable
Diamond Deas
Program Assistant, Title III
Nick Dulcio
Director, Advancement/Alumni Affairs (Chief of Staff)
Kristen G. Florence
Assistant Director of Donor Relations
Alisa L. Footman
Information Specialist, Title III
Regina Gardner
Director, Office of Alumni Affairs - Finances
KeChaunda Gilcrease
Assistant Director, Donor Relations/Foundation Scholarships Fiscal Operations
Marvin E. Green, Jr.
Major Gift Officer - Athletics & Marching 100
Kimberly Hankerson
Assistant Vice President, Major/Principal Giving
Kenyatta Haywood
Administrative Assistant, Foundation Scholarships
Danielle Hurd
Coordinator, Donor Relations & Gift Processor
Jennifer Lee
Director of Annual and Affinity Giving
Quiana C. Lowe
Director of Marketing & Communications
LaTasha McGriff
Office Assistant, Accounts Payable & Reconciliation
Gena Palmberg
Assistant Director, Financial Operations & Fiscal Officer
Ashley Peterson
Administrative Assistant, Gift Processing
Audrey Simmons-Smith
Director of Development & Strategic Industry Partnerships
Eric Swanigan
Director of Technology & Facility Support Services
Jahlisa Taylor
Program Coordinator/ Prospect Researcher
Sabrina Thompson
Assistant Director, Office of Alumni Affairs
Thank you for your support!
Florida A&M University
625 E. Tennessee Street Suite 100
Tallahassee, Florida 32308-4933
advancement@famu.edu
(850) 412-5755