FAMU is diving into summer with a new initiative aimed at bolstering water safety and student engagement through free swimming lessons at the Jake Gaither Gymnasium pool. The program, spearheaded by aquatics director Dionne Gerri, seeks to address critical gaps in swimming proficiency while fostering a culture of fitness and community well-being.
Bridging gaps in water safety
With Florida’s abundance of lakes, rivers, and coastline, the program emphasizes the urgency of water safety education. “Being surrounded by water, it’s essential that we equip not just students but also staff and the broader community with lifesaving skills,” said Gerri, a seasoned aquatic instructor and scuba diving expert. The program’s aims to combat the alarming drowning rates, particularly among African Americans. According to the CDC, Black Americans face disproportionately higher risks of drowning compared to other racial groups, a disparity FAMU aims to reduce through hands-on training.
Program structure and accessibility
The beginner-friendly lessons, open to students of all skill levels, are held multiple days a week over a condensed three-week session. While the American Red Cross typically recommends six to eight weeks for foundational courses, FAMU’s abbreviated schedule stems from the university's current staffing limitations. Despite this, Gerri expressed optimism about expanding the program’s duration and scope. “Our goal is to grow this into a year-round resource and eventually welcome the entire community by next summer,” she added.
Looking ahead
For now, registration is exclusive to FAMU students. The program’s phased rollout reflects broader ambitions to position the university as a regional hub for water safety education. Future plans include hiring additional instructors, extending course offerings, and partnering with local organizations to amplify outreach.
As the initiative gains traction, Gerri hopes it will ripple beyond campus borders. “Swimming isn’t just a skill—it’s a lifeline,” she said. “Every student we teach today could become a lifeguard, a mentor, or a parent who passes this knowledge forward.”