FAMU is celebrating a significant milestone today as it turns 137 years old. What began as a one-room schoolhouse with two instructors and 15 students has grown into one of the highest ranked public universities in the country, ranked No. 81 out of 1,995 public universities, and i the highest-ranked public Historically Black College or University (HBCU).
With nearly 10,000 students from across the nation, FAMU now spans three campuses throughout Florida, reflecting its evolution and expansion over the decades. The university's interim President,Timothy Beard, emphasized the importance of this anniversary, stating, "Today, we celebrate the courage and vision of our founders, and the dedication of every faculty, staff, student, and alumni who contributed to the well-being of this institution throughout its 137-year journey."
President Beard also highlighted the university's ongoing commitment to enhancing lives and empowering communities through innovative teaching, research, scholarship, partnerships, and public service. "Can you imagine how proud our founders are as they look upon us from above at what has been achieved along our journey," Beard asked. "They would be proud of our historic and ongoing battle against injustice and as our mission statement today states: they would be proud of our commitment to enhance the lives of its constituents and empower communities through innovative teaching, research, scholarship, partnerships, and public service."
FAMU's birthday celebration is a testament to its resilience and growth, showcasing the institution's ability to adapt and excel while maintaining its founding principles. As the university looks forward to its next chapter, it does so with the optimism of many more successful years to come.