FAMU rolled out a warm welcome for new Gov. Rick Scott and Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll this week with two big events in the Alfred “Al” Lawson Multipurpose Center & Teaching Gymnasium.On Sunday evening, FAMU and Al Lawson & Associates held a black tie gala in Carroll’s honor. President James H. Ammons, Provost Cynthia Hughes-Harris, and Vice President for University Relations Carla Willis all greeted Carroll on behalf of the university. 20 members of the Florida Conference of Black State Legislators were in attendance.
Former Sen. Al Lawson told WCTV-6 that Carroll is “like a little sister” to him.
“Seven years ago, many members were suspect about this young lady,” Lawson said. “She was the first Republican member of the black caucus, and that created many unusual situations for many of my colleagues.”
Scott also made a surprise visit to gala and praised his running-mate as a tireless leader who will play a big role in his administration.
On Tuesday morning, FAMU kicked off the inauguration day activities with a prayer breakfast. Ammons thanked the Scott and Carroll “for keeping God as part of this inaugural process.”
The Marching 100 later high-stepped for the new governor and lieutenant governor during the inaugural parade.