The excitement and energy of a new academic year was on display during the President’s Convocation on Aug. 23.
The annual convocation, which took place in Gaither Gymnasium, provided the first opportunity of the 2016-17 academic year, for members of the University community to come together.
A strong showing of students, faculty, staff, retirees, alumni and supporters attended the event which included an introduction of the University’s Royal Court and the introduction of Marching “100” staff and student leaders by Director of Bands, Shelby Chipman, Ph.D.
President Elmira Mangum, Ph.D. emphasized to the freshmen students in attendance that the beginning of the academic year signals a time of promise.
“You join the proud ranks of Rattlers who have paved a roadmap of excellence for you. You can go anywhere on the globe and you’ll find a Rattler,” Mangum said.
Paris Ellis, vice president of the Student Government Association reminded students of FAMU’s great history and impact upon the state and nation.
“We are where we are because of leadership, sacrifice and service and excellence is deeply rooted in the fabric of FAMU,” Ellis said. “Make critical decisions in your own lives, and when the dark cloud gather over the horizon decide not only where you will stand, but how you will stand,” she added.
During her address Mangum welcomed 22 new faculty members and informed students of the “Venom Express,” a new shuttle system created to serve students, faculty and staff on campus.
She also thanked the incoming freshmen for deciding to attend FAMU and shared that the University is poised to continue its tradition of excellence using FAMU’s recent selection by Forbes Magazine as one of America’s top colleges for a second consecutive year as an example.
“Understand we are talking about quality at Florida A&M University. Among our incoming class are more than 100 distinguished scholars. You are among the best and we expect that and no less from you,” Mangum said.
Prior to concluding, Mangum challenged the students to stay focused and remember their obligations to themselves and to helping move FAMU forward.
“Our success as an institution is tied to your success as a student, and if you do well, FAMU does well, so we’re committed to giving you all of the resources that we have available to enable you to succeed,” she said.