Florida A&M University (FAMU) has announced that Kristin Harper, a marketing executive, entrepreneur, and alumna of the university, will deliver the keynote address at its Fall 2025 Commencement Ceremony. The event is scheduled for Friday, December 12 at 6 p.m. in the Al Lawson Center.
FAMU President Marva Johnson commented on Harper’s selection as speaker: “Kristin Harper’s commitment to giving back – to FAMU, to HBCU students, and the next generation – speaks volumes about her mission and character. Her return to the Hill is a proud moment for the entire FAMU community,” said Johnson. “She reflects the talent and drive that inspires and I am sure that her words will resonate deeply with our graduates and remind them that their FAMU education is both a foundation and a springboard to a successful future.”
Harper is the founder and CEO of Driven to Succeed LLC, which provides market research and consulting services across sectors such as healthcare, fintech, and consumer goods. Before founding her own company, she held senior roles in major corporations including Procter & Gamble, The Hershey Company, and Cardinal Health.
“Education is a transformative force, and I’m thrilled to return to the ‘Highest of Seven Hills’ to celebrate a new generation of Rattlers whose brilliance, resilience, and purpose will carry FAMU’s legacy forward,” said Harper.
Harper has also contributed as an author with her book “The Heart of a Leader: 52 Emotional Intelligence Insights to Advance Your Career” and has appeared in national media outlets like CNBC, Entrepreneur, and Business Insider.
In addition to her professional work, Harper supports Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). She co-founded Pacesetters Unlimited with her husband Andre—whom she met at FAMU—which provides scholarships for students attending HBCUs. They have awarded more than $30,000 in scholarships through this nonprofit initiative.
Harper served as chair of the FAMU Board of Trustees where she led initiatives aimed at improving FAMU’s national standing among higher education institutions. She is also involved with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., co-chairing scholarship fundraising campaigns for FAMU students.
During her time at FAMU’s School of Business and Industry program (SBI), Harper earned both bachelor’s and MBA degrees simultaneously. She was also elected as Student Government Association president—the third woman in school history to do so.
The fall commencement ceremony will recognize about 580 graduates from across 14 schools within the university. Those unable to attend can watch via live stream on Facebook or YouTube (@FAMUTube1887).
