Florida A&M University announced on Mar. 23 that its annual “Be Out Day” celebration will take place on Saturday, April 4, with music artists Bunna B and Fly Boi Keno set to headline the event.
The tradition is considered a significant part of campus life, providing students an opportunity to relax and celebrate before finals. Student Government Association President Zayla Bryant said, “I’ve been working diligently with the Student ‘Be Out Day’ Committee alongside faculty, administration, trustees, and donors to bring to life an experience that will be an everlasting memory for the spring semester. Let the good times roll!”
Originally known as “Fun Day,” Be Out Day began as a small gathering led by Colonel Bernard Hendricks in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Marvin Greene Jr., major gift officer in Athletics/Marching 100 at FAMU, recalled Hendricks’ role: “He wasn’t catering anything. He literally cooked the ribs, the baked beans… that was him.” The event evolved after Hendricks’ passing in 1992 when it was renamed under student leadership.
Christian Aristilde, chief operating officer of Winners Circle who helped secure this year’s talent lineup, said: “Be Out Day is personal for me because I understand what it means to create moments that people actually remember.” Aristilde added: “We’re here to create experiences that last beyond the event itself, and I hope the students will enjoy and remember this year’s Be Out Day for years to come.”
Bryan Smith, associate vice president for Student Affairs and adviser to the Student Government Association said: “Historically, it’s centered around a midterm opportunity to relax and hang out… To decompress after working hard…to be celebrated and rewarded.” Smith also noted about food vendors at the event: “There’s seafood, barbecue, icy trucks. It’s just a great time.”
Over time Be Out Day has grown from a campus cookout into an occasion celebrated by alumni groups across cities such as Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, Tampa and Houston. Greene commented on its influence: “Because now alumni groups are doing Be Out Day in their own cities.”
As each year builds upon past celebrations with new performers—including previous appearances by FAMU alumna K. Michelle—the tradition continues to offer students camaraderie while maintaining its original spirit.
