Florida A&M University (FAMU) recently held its “Destination FAMU” recruitment events in St. Petersburg and Tampa, engaging hundreds of prospective students as part of a statewide outreach initiative leading up to the Florida Blue Florida Classic.
The first event took place at St. Petersburg College (SPC), where FAMU President Marva B. Johnson and SPC President Tonjua Williams spoke about their institutions’ partnership through Florida’s 2+2 transfer system. This model allows students to move from state colleges to universities without losing credits or taking unnecessary courses, providing a more efficient path to degree completion.
“I am honored to be the 13th president for Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University,” Johnson said, highlighting the benefits of partnerships between state colleges and universities in expanding access to higher education. She added, “When we work together, we multiply the opportunities, we remove the barriers, we accelerate your journey to success.”
The events were organized by Enrollment Management within FAMU’s Division of Student Affairs and included information sessions on admissions requirements, financial aid options, academic programs, student life, and campus traditions. Student leaders shared personal experiences with attendees and encouraged early involvement in campus activities.
Johnson praised Florida’s higher education system for its consistent top national ranking. The gatherings also featured participation from FAMU’s Royal Court and Presidential Ambassadors.
Jabari Shirley, an SPC music student planning to transfer to FAMU in Spring 2026, attended the event and expressed his appreciation: “I love the presentation. I hype up FAMU as a St. Petersburg College student any chance I get.” He noted that the financial aid information provided was especially helpful.
On the second day in Tampa, students from several local high schools attended an event at the Shanna and Bryan Glazer Jewish Community Center. Johnson again addressed attendees: “I’m a proud product of Hillsborough County public schools… If a little girl moved from Orange County, California, to Tampa, Florida… can stand before you today as the 13th president of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, you can go anywhere.” She emphasized her personal commitment by telling students they would be part of her first recruited class.
Ann Griffin, college and career counselor at Riverview High School, brought 13 students to participate. “It gives a little bit of FAMU right here in our own backyard,” she said. “The programs, the culture, the vibe—it feels like home, being away from home.”
Students attending expressed interest in various academic fields such as law and engineering while citing connections made during Destination FAMU as important for their future plans.
Ava Woods from Middleton High School remarked on how she valued learning about pathways from undergraduate study at FAMU through its law school: “I like that I could go from a four-year degree from FAMU to their law school as well… It’s connected, and I really love their pre-law program.”
Cohen Allen of Thomas Jefferson High School shared his interest in civil engineering at FAMU-FSU College of Engineering: “a great opportunity to network.” Da’Zorah Pinckney from Middleton High School said every visit made her feel welcome: “Every time I come to a FAMU event, it feels all-inclusive… They make you feel welcome, like this is your community.”
Johnson summarized what distinguishes FAMU: “We didn’t get that number one public HBCU designation by just showing up… It’s a reflection of the excellence of our students and our faculty.”
