FAMU hosted its annual Honors Convocation Thursday, April 1, in Perry-Paige Auditorium.Makeba Earst, owner and operator of All About Smiles dental practice, served as keynote speaker. She challenged the honor students to be critical thinkers.
“When I came to FAMU in 1991, life was great,” said Earst, who earned her bachelor’s degree from FAMU in chemistry. “Professors here transformed me into a critical thinker.”
She said the one thing that separates the successful people from the unsuccessful people is the way they think.
“Please know that you are all great thinkers,” Earst said. “I challenge you to pursue your goals; surround yourself with critical thinkers.”
A native of Tallahassee, Earst was the senior class valedictorian when she attended FAMU-Developmental Research School. At All About Smiles, she and her staff work diligently to provide the best in quality dental care as well as enhance the quality of life for those in need of dental treatment.
“I was born a Baby Rattler to a Mama Rattler and a Papa Rattler,” the charismatic Earst said. “It feels so good to be back. There’s no place like home.”
Barbara Thompson, assistant vice president for Academic Affairs, presented Earst with the President’s Award.
Outstanding University Honors Program students were also recognized during the ceremony.
Provost Cynthia Hughes Harris said she was proud of all the students for their achievements.
“This group truly got the memo,” she said to the students. “They know how to have fun in school, but to make sure to reach that goal in the end.”