Rattlers prepare to lobby for FAMU during FAMU Day at the Capitol

On Thursday, February 8, 2018, advocates for Florida A&M University (FAMU) will come together for FAMU Day at the Capitol to solicit support for the 130-year old institution of higher learning, which is a viable component and contributing member of the State University System of Florida.

The FAMU National Alumni Association, a sponsor of the annual day of advocacy for FAMU, is encouraging all alumni, students, faculty, administration, friends, and supporters to participate by highlighting the excellent academic programs and services offered at FAMU to the legislators of their respective districts.

FAMU advocates will visit Florida legislators throughout the day. FAMUans and friends are encouraged to display Rattler pride by adorning orange and green colors.

Lt. Col. Gregory Clark, president of the FAMU National Alumni Association, is excited about FAMU’s presence at the pinnacle of state government.

“What an incredible opportunity FAMU Day at the Capitol presents for me serving in my role on behalf of alumni and my alma mater,” Clark said. “As FAMU Rattlers, we come together on many occasions; FAMU Day creates an awesome atmosphere of advocacy in support of our historic institution. Our alumni take great pride in meeting with legislators to reinforce the importance of funding initiatives that strengthen FAMU’s capability to provide quality academic programs to produce professionals in a global workforce and economy.”

A graduate of the class of 1993, Clark adds, “I am calling for all FAMU Rattlers to support FAMU in some way on this special day. Contact your elected legislators (senators and representatives) of your local areas by personal visits, telephone calls or by letter/emails with reasons for supporting FAMU and its programs.”

Clark expressed that the FAMU NAA supports the 2018 legislative priorities presented by Larry Robinson, Ph.D., 12th university president, and feels that, given state funding, FAMU can make even more significant impacts on students and the community.

Over the past year, FAMU NAA Governmental Relations Committee (GRC) members from around the United States have been involved in monthly meetings and in-depth discussions on key issues related to the University’s Legislative Budget Request (LBR) in order to prepare for legislative visits, said Carolyn Hepburn Collins, FAMU NAA GRC chair.

Chair Collins has encouraged this annual activity as a FAMU undertaking, which involves alumni chapters from all five regions of the national association, Student Government Association, students, Faculty Senate members, deans, administrators, staff from various colleges and schools and campus units, community supporters, and the FAMU Board of Trustees.

“This is the one time of the year that FAMUans come together to give legislators thanks and pursue legislative support to increase student success by enhancing retention and graduation rates among other entities, such as advocating for the Center for Access and Student Success,” Collins said.