After earning degrees from one of FAMU’s 14 colleges and
schools, graduates reaped the benefits of years of study and dedication
surrounded by enthusiastic family members, friends and supporters.
During his Friday evening commencement address, Arnold Donald,
president and chief executive officer of Carnival Corporation & PLC, the
largest travel and leisure company in the world, advised the graduates to
passionately pursue fulfillment in life.
Two honorary doctorates were awarded to esteemed FAMU alumni
during the weekend. The first was awarded to Garth C. Reeves Sr., a highly
accomplished journalist who most notably served as the long-time publisher and
CEO of the Miami Times newspaper. The second honorary degree was awarded
posthumously to Raymond A. Brown a legendary civil rights attorney, whose
reputation as a defender of the oppressed inspired a generation of
African-American attorneys.
In her address to graduates on Saturday morning, Roslyn M.
Brock emphasized that although the current generation has publicly demonstrated
a good amount of courage, there is still more to be accomplished.
“Graduates, don’t stop now. Get in formation and get ready
to work, work, work…” Brock said. “Keep the faith and be persistent,” she
added.
Shouts of joy and contentment rang out in the arena for each
of the ceremonies as graduates enjoyed the big moment many of them had dreamed
about for years. During the final ceremony, FAMU Trustee Thomas Dortch, Jr. CEO
of TWD, Inc., reminded graduates of the success the University has prepared
them to accomplish and their obligation to build bridges for future Rattlers.
“At the end of the day you change your community, be
relevant. Florida A&M University has prepared you for anything you face in
life,” Dortch said.