For many high school seniors, the global pandemic stole the joys of a traditional graduation ceremony. Florida A&M University (FAMU) is trying to make the next step more memorable with its first Acceptance Day event.
Scheduled for 1 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. EST on Friday, May 29 via Zoom and social media, FAMU Acceptance Day is expected to paint the world in orange and green as newly minted high school graduates announce and celebrate their choice of FAMU for the next four years.
“It is always exciting to enter Florida A&M University,” said President Larry Robinson, Ph.D., who will be among those welcoming the new students. “We want our incoming students to know that their choice of FAMU will have immediate positive impacts and provide a solid foundation for their future success. At FAMU, “Excellence with Caring,” has real meaning.”
Incoming students will see a campus being transformed. This fall, the University is expected to open the brand new 700-bed FAMU Towers residence, a new dining hub, the 73,000-square-foot student services building and an outdoor amphitheater.
In addition to new and upgraded facilities, the University has seen an increase in the GPA and test scores of first time in college students. And this spring, as COVID-19 devastated communities across America, FAMU graduates have been on the front-line in public health, respiratory care, nursing and other areas.
“We understand that talented students can attend any school,” said William Hudson, Jr., Ph.D., vice president for Student Affairs. “We are honored when they choose FAMU. It’s a sacred trust, and we are doing all we can to get them prepared not just to be successful professionally but also to make a difference in their community. The present crisis highlights the need for difference-makers in our society.”
During the six and a half-hour event, various divisions, colleges and schools will share videos, stories, welcome messages. For those who missed it, there will be a re-sharing of the Virtual Preview. There will also be a Facebook live featuring student and University leaders and students from Greek and student organizations.The day will end with a Virtual Dance party with a DJ who is an incoming freshman. Current students, alumni, staff and faculty are being encouraged to participate on social media and other platforms.
“Everyone who has walked on this campus as a student remembers the excitement of getting notified that they’ve been accepted to FAMU,” said Augustus Mitchell, assistant director Office of Enrollment Management. “We want to share the excitement with the Class of 2024. Hopefully, other students will want to join them.”
