RW News: FAMU Launches its 2008 Alumni Association Membership Campaign

Florida A&M University President James H. Ammons, Alvin Bryant, president of FAMU’s National Alumni Association, and Lisa Lang, chairperson of FAMU’s National Alumni Association Membership Committee, announce the launch of the FAMU Alumni Association 2008 membership campaign.

“Our goal is to double our national membership,” said Bryant.

Alumni, who are not a current member of the alumni association, will receive a bonus for joining. As an incentive, individuals will receive membership in the local chapter for the remainder of 2007, in addition to being a member locally, regionally and nationally for 2008.

Individuals not sure about the amount or are not aware of his or her local chapter president or membership chair is, can contact the FAMU Office of Alumni Affairs at
1-888-664-6544 or (850) 599-3707.

Recognition will be given to the chapter that brings in the highest number of memberships (new, life and regular) for 2008.

Applications can be obtained at the following web address http://www.famu.edu/alumni/UserFiles/File/NAA_App1_26Nov2007.doc.

For more information, contact Lisa Lang at (850) 561-2421 or via email at lisa.lang@famu.edu.

RW news: Board of Trustees Schedules Meeting

The Florida A&M University Board of Trustees will meet Tuesday, December 4, at 9 a.m. in the Grand Ballroom on FAMU’s campus. For more information, call (850) 599-3413.

FAMU Student Health Services will Observe World AIDS Day

Florida A&M University Student Health Services and FAMU’s Student Government Association’s Office of the Surgeon General have collaborated with local, state, and community based organizations to observe the 20th Annual World AIDS Day. Events have been scheduled beginning on Thursday, November 29, through Wednesday, December 5.

“The theme for this year is Leadership,” said Jennifer Harrison-Hauer, FAMU’s Student Health Services Health Educator. “Leaders are distinguished by their actions, originality, and vision; their personal example and engagement of others; and their perseverance in the face of obstacles and challenges. However, leaders are not necessarily those in high offices. Leadership can occur at every level – in families, churches, organizations, and right here on the campus of Florida A&M University. With that in mind, anyone can be a leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Stand strong and make a commitment to become a leader against this preventable disease. Get tested for HIV and encourage others to know their status. The more people tested means less people infected. Talk about HIV/AIDS with family, friends, and loved ones. Educate yourself and others about ways to prevent becoming infected.”

For a complete listing of events, go to FAMU.edu.

RW News: Finalists named for the Position of Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs

The search committee for the position of Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Florida A&M University has identified five finalists who will be interview beginning November 26 through December 5. The Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs is the second highest-ranking position at the university and reports directly to the President. The search committee is expected to submit its list of three unranked finalists to FAMU President Ammons no later than Monday, December 10.

The five finalists are the following: Perry Massey, professor, Department of Government and History at Fayetteville State University in Fayetteville, NC; Cynthia Hughes Harris, dean for the School of Allied Health Sciences at FAMU; K.K. Bentil, retired president for the Medical Center Campus, Miami Dade College in Miami, Fla.; James Wyche, CEO and principal scientist for the Presbyterian Health Foundation in Oklahoma City, Okla.; Lemuel Berry, Jr., educational consultant, Scarborough, Maine.

RW News: FAMU ASKS U.S. ATTORNEY’S OFFICE TO INVESTIGATE UNAUTHORIZED GRADE CHANGES

Florida A&M University has asked the U.S. Attorney’s Office to take over the FAMU grade change investigation.

University officials said they believe their involvement would strengthen the university’s efforts to have those involved prosecuted. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has committed to the investigation.

“We are pleased that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has made this determination,” said Sharon P. Saunders, university spokesperson. “Their involvement will send a signal that we are serious about seeking prosecution.”

On September 18, 2007, FAMU Police Department launched an investigation after discovering that unauthorized grade changes had been made.

RW News: FAMU’s Social Work with Children’s Class Sponsors Around the World Event

Florida A&M University Social Work with Children’s class will sponsor an Around the World Event on Saturday, December 1, beginning at 12 noon at the Walker-Ford Gymnasium. Doors will close at 12:30 p.m. Children from ages four to 17 will have the opportunity to learn about eight different cultures, customs and enjoy cuisines from the various cultures. Each child will be given a kids fact on each culture and provided with a pretend passport that will allow them to visit each culture.

Katisa Donaldson, professor for the Social Work with Children class stated this event will expose a child to new and exciting adventures.

“Children in our community will have a chance to travel around the world without leaving Tallahassee,” said Donaldson. “The students in my class have worked very hard to make each child’s travel experience one they will never forget.”

Admission is free and open to the general public. For more information, contact Albert Williams at (863) 228-4127 or Rinadi Tropnas at (239) 398-1836.

RW Sports: FAMU Begins Hiring Process for New Athletics Director and Head Football Coach

Florida A&M University President James H. Ammons said today he would begin the hiring process for a new Athletic Director and Head Coach.

Athletic Director Nelson Townsend resigned today and will be on administrative leave with pay until February 12, 2008, his last day of employment. Head Football Coach Rubin Carter, received a “notice of non-reappointment and employment separation.” He has been placed on administrative leave with pay. His last day of employment is April 22, 2008.

Ammons said that he would fill the positions by the end of the year. He announced to the staff in the athletics department this morning that Allen Bogan, an assistant professor and former assistant football coach, would serve as interim until a permanent director is hired.

“I am appreciative of tremendous work Mr. Townsend and Coach Carter have done during the period when we were working to address the NCAA sanctions,” said Ammons. “We want to move in a new direction with the athletics program. I’m moving forward with the hiring process.”

Townsend began his tenure at FAMU in January 2006 as the athletics director. He has had more than 30 years of experience in athletics and education. He previously served as director of athletics at FAMU from 1986-1987. He also served as athletic director at University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Delaware State University and the University of Buffalo.

Carter was appointed head coach in July 2005. He was an All-American defensive lineman at the University of Miami in 1974 and had a 12-year career in the National Football League with the Denver Broncos. Prior to coming to FAMU, Carter had more than 18 years of professional and collegiate coaching experience.

RW News: FAMU Pharmacy Faculty received Certification as a Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology

Rafaat Khalil, assistant professor, basic pharmaceutical sciences at Florida A&M University’s College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (COPPS), recently received his certification as a Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology, Inc. (ABT).

ABT diplomates participate in all aspects of the profession of toxicology including: the design and interpretation of safety studies for product development; review and interpretation of such studies for regulatory compliance; basic and applied research into toxic effects, mechanisms of toxic action, toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics; and education of undergraduates, professional and graduate students and the public in the science of toxicology through courses, legal cases and media interactions.

While the majority of diplomates reside in the U.S., approximately six percent of ABT diplomates are found in other countries worldwide. These countries include Canada, Europe, Australia, Japan, Korea, India, Singapore, and Taiwan. The acceptance of ABT certification as a qualification for membership by the national registries of several European countries, and thus by Eurotox, demonstrates ABT's leadership role in the certification of toxicologists.

Khalil’s certification is valid for a period of five years, and in 2011 he will begin his recertification process. ABT considers periodic recertification of diplomates as essential to maintaining high standards of professional competence. Recertification is conducted at five-year intervals and requires demonstration of continuing education and the active practice of toxicology.

“As a board member, we are charged with working with all regulatory agencies including the Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency and can be called upon to testify as an expert in the field of toxicology,”
Khalil said. “I am excited about the opportunity to serve in the capacity of a diplomate for ABT.”

“The College is proud of Khalil’s accomplishments and being included in the distinguished group of over 2000 certified toxicologists who are diplomates of ABT,” said Henry Lewis III, dean and professor of FAMU’s COPPS. “He joins Cynthia Harris, director of the Institute of Public Health within the College with this designation.”

The mission of the American Board of Toxicology is to establish standards for professional competency in the field of toxicology and advance awareness of its position as the premier certifying body in the field.

RW News: FAMU Department of Social Work Granted Full Accreditation for its Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees Programs

Florida A&M University College of Arts and Sciences and the Department of Social Work announced that the Council on Social Work Education Commission on Accreditation granted a full eight-year accreditation to the bachelor of social work (BSW) and master of social work (MSW) programs for the full eight year cycle from 2006 to 2014.

“We are extremely excited and proud,” said Brenda Jarmon, chair of FAMU’s Department of Social Work. “The faculty, staff, and I work very hard every day to ensure that our students succeed. I know that Victoria Warner, founder of social work at FAMU, would be very proud of us. She worked tirelessly to establish social work as a bona fide discipline at FAMU. She secured initial accreditation of our BSW program in 1974, and led the charge for professionalizing BSW programs across the country. We are proud to continue her legacy at the BSW and MSW levels.”

The official social work program began with one introductory course in the Department of Sociology during the 1950 - 1951 academic year. By 1956, a six-course sequence was available as a minor for students majoring in the liberal arts. A bachelor’s degree in social work was first offered in 1979 under the leadership of Warner. Under her direction, the program achieved departmental status in the 1990-1991 academic year.

“I am extremely pleased that our social work program has received reaccredidation from the Council of Social Work Education,” said Ralph Turner, interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “Having an accredited social work program enhances our recruitment of good faculty and students. It also expands and affords our students’ eligibility for licensure and jobs in the marketplace.”

The BSW program received full accreditation in 1974 and the MSW program received initial accreditation in 2002. The department is housed in Banneker B, Suite 300 and has 170 BSW majors and 43 MSW majors.

RW News: FAMU Pioneer Hansel Tookes Succumbs

Jacksonville native served in numerous roles at Florida A&M University and remained active in alumni, athletic affairs after retirement

Hansel E. “Tootie” Tookes, a longtime Florida A&M University (FAMU) athletic administrator and educator, passed away Wednesday evening. He was 86.

The funeral service is scheduled for Monday, November 19, at 11 a.m. at Bethel Baptist Church, 417 West Tennessee Street.

“Coach Tookes was a legend in the life of Florida A&M University,” said President James H. Ammons. “He was a true Rattler who was admired and respected by many. This a great lost to the FAMU family. He will long be remembered for his longtime support and generous contributions. He was a great guy who maintained a sense of humor even throughout his illness. What I enjoyed most about him were the messages and the advice he gave me to take to the football team as I talked to them prior to the game. He will be missed.”

Tookes, whose passion and enthusiasm for FAMU, its Health and Physical Education Department and the school’s storied athletic program, never waned in his later years following his retirement in the late 1980s. He remained an active member of the FAMU Alumni Association, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., the FAMU National Varsity “F” Club and the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame Steering Committee.

Indicative of his continuing love for FAMU, Tookes and wife, Lavada, began a scholarship endowment program for the Health, Physical Education and Recreation Department in the late 1990s.

A native of Jacksonville, Fla., Tookes served as Director of Athletics at FAMU, chaired the FAMU Health, Physical Education and Recreation Department and oversaw the FAMU Intramural Department during his career at the university.

From 1947 through the mid-1960s, Tookes served on the FAMU football coaching staff, under legendary Hall of Fame Coach A.S. “Jake” Gaither, mentoring the tackles and serving as the team’s advance scout of future opponents. He also served as the school’s golf coach.

He was appointed athletics director in 1975, upon the retirement of Gaither, serving in that role until the fall of 1980.

“Coach Tookes,” as many knew him, founded the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame in 1976, an institution that has now honored more than 200 former athletes, coaches, administrators and supporters.

Tookes also oversaw the FAMU athletic program’s transition to NCAA Division I in the late 1970s, helping transition the program from membership in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) to affiliation with the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) in 1980.

Undoubtedly, the move that he will be most remembered for during his reign as athletics director was his role in the creation of the Florida Classic football game between FAMU and Bethune-Cookman College, which began a 27-year run in 1978 in Tampa.

Tookes, along with Bethune-Cookman athletic director Lloyd “Tank” Johnson, former FAMU President Walter L. Smith and former B-CC President Oswald P. Bronson, hammered out the deal for the Classic, which has now grown to epic proportions, annually drawing 70,000 fans to the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Fla.

Also known for his enthusiastic vocalizing of the fabled FAMU battle cry, “Hubba, Hubba,” at sports and alumni gatherings, Tookes began his long association with FAMU as a student-athlete on the Rattler football team.

An All-Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference tackle for the Rattlers from 1939 to 1942, Tookes helped FAMU to win Black College National Championships in 1940 and 1942.

After graduating from FAMU, Tookes continued his athletic career in the United States Army, where he stood out as a tackle for the Camp Lee team for three years.

He returned to FAMU in 1947, joining the Rattler athletic staff as an assistant football coach and golf coach, while also serving as associate professor in the Health and Physical Education Department.

His wife, Lavada, two sons, Hansel II and Darryl, and several grandchildren survive him.

RW Soul: FAMU Students Encourage Other Students to “Keep off the Grass”

Florida A&M University students met on the quadrangle to instill pride in the campus community—one strand of grass at a time.

“Students, especially, should do their part to take care of their campus,” said D’Andra Escuffery, an 18-year old freshmen nursing student from Ft. Lauderdale. “We’ve been out here for an hour trying to explain to students that keeping off the grass and taking pride in the university’s appearance is just the beginning.”

The students are a part of Jeffery Mills’ African-American history class, and decided to take the matters of instilling school pride and spirit into their peers in their own hands after a class lecture.

“My class is currently studying about an era in which there was a boom of black-owned businesses and the pride surrounding them,” said Mills. “I noticed that lately the university has been doing a great deal to keep the institution looking it’s best. Encouraging students to keep off the grass is just one way to promote that same pride and ownership, as well as cultivate an attitude for what the university stands for.”

According to Mills, this is just the beginning. Mills and his students plan to continue their efforts to “keep the campus green.” He also noted that each student earns extra credit for

participating and they will be on the quad for the remainder of the week.

Keontra Campbell, a 19-year-old freshmen history education student from Pensacola, stated if those benefiting directly from FAMU [students] do not act as though the institution has any significance, then outsiders would not see its significance either.

“It’s up to us to see that others learn about FAMU’s history and take part in preserving it,” he said. “Encouraging students to avoid walking on the grass is the least we can do.”

FAMU President James H. Ammons made his way to the quad to greet and congratulate the students for their effort.

“The effort made by these students symbolizes so much more than what meets the eye,” said Ammons. “By encouraging their peers to keep off the grass, students are not only encouraging other students to preserve the appearance of the institution, they are, in turn, instilling a sense of pride in students.”

FAMU Pharmacy Alumnus elected President of the Association of Black Health-System Pharmacists

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Jasper W. Watkins III, a 1982 graduate from Florida A&M University's College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (COPPS) with a bachelor of science degree in pharmacy was recently elected president of the Association of Black Health-System Pharmacists (ABHP). Watkins, a native of Jacksonville, Florida, also received a masters of science in health services administration from Central Michigan University.

Watkins serves as Chief, Bureau for Statewide Pharmaceutical Services, Florida Department of Health (DOH). In his role, he manages a budget in excess of $100 million and the provision of pharmaceutical services to all Florida Department of Health facilities. He oversees the States’ Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee, Florida Formulatory system, assists in expansion of the States’ Pharmaceutical Stockpile Program, provides technical support for all areas of pharmaceutical services related to preparedness, and coordinates with the pharmacy managers of County Health Departments and DOH during times of disaster.

For more information visit famu.edu

FAMU Pharmacy Alumnus Appointed to the Michigan Board of Pharmacy

Gwenesia Collins, a 1999 doctor of pharmacy graduate of the Florida A&M University's College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (COPPS), was recently appointed by Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of Michigan, to the Michigan Board of Pharmacy for a four-year term. The Michigan Board of Pharmacy consists of 11 voting members — six pharmacists and five public members. The board currently oversees approximately 12,535 pharmacists, 2,931 pharmacies and 937 manufacturers/wholesalers.

Additionally, Collins serves as CEO and managing member of Tri Unity Infusion, LLC, located in Masonic Fraser, MI, which provides home fusion services. Home infusion therapy involves the administration of medications using intravenous, subcutaneous, and epidural routes.

“I consider it an honor and a privilege to have the opportunity to serve my fellow pharmacists and the citizens of Michigan with excellence and integrity, “said Collins.

“The College of Pharmacy family is elated about Collins’ recent appointment to the Michigan Board of Pharmacy,” “aid Henry Lewis III, dean and professor of the FAMU COPPS. “Collins typifies the professional caliber and level of public service commitment of our alumni.”

RW Soul: “Orlando 9” is the beginning of a new wave of recruiting for FAMU Football

The 2007 Florida A&M University football team will bring nine Orlando area natives back home when they face off against archrival Bethune-Cookman in the Walt Disney World Florida Classic XXVIII, presented by State Farm on Saturday, November 17, at 3:30 p.m. in the Florida Citrus Bowl.

This group of talented student-athletes is the largest number of Orange County area players on a FAMU football roster in several years. They also represent the positive results of two years of intensive high school recruiting by FAMU head coach Rubin Carter and his staff.

Upon his appointment as head coach in July of 2005, Carter pledged to make an effort to reconnect FAMU Football with high school programs in the State of Florida, and this group of youngsters is part of that bumper crop of Sunshine State prospects that signed on with the Rattlers.

“Interestingly enough, two of the Orlando-area players on the Rattler roster went to high school right down the street from the stadium where the annual Classic battle will be played out,” said Alvin Hollins, assistant athletic director for external operations/media relations.

Sophomore center Kwame Akkebela and second-year linebacker Damien Priester both graduated from Orlando’s Jones High School, which is less than a mile away from the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium.

Akkebela, a 6-4, 255-pound lineman, was the former All-State, All-Area and All-District performer. He was the starting center for the Rattlers all season until the FAMU Homecoming game, helping anchor a group which allowed the fewest quarterback sacks in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference so far this year.

He saw action in six games as freshman in 2006, finishing with 12 tackles (nine solo, three assists). He tallied a season high eight tackles (six solo, two assists) against Hampton University.

A two-sport athlete at Jones High, who competed in football and track, Priester was named the team’s Most Valuable Player in 2005, earning All-Metro honors, and All Orange County honors in football. Priester tallied 80 tackles, 10 sacks and 12 tackles for a loss in his junior season, earning him All Orange County Honors.

Redshirt freshman offensive tackle Gerald Poke, a 6-6, 270-pounder from Boone High in Orlando, has been pressed into service as a starter on the offensive line the second half of the season.

Poke, who was redshirted last season, was a three-sport letter winner in basketball, football and track at William R. Boone High School in Orlando, Fla. His senior season, Poke was team captain, a first team All-FNF selection and earned first team 6A All-State honors. In addition, Poke earned FNF first team all-conference honors and was named third team 6A All-State.

The rest of the “Orlando 9” include Derrick Tarver, a redshirt freshman defensive back from nearby Apopka; and five “true” freshmen who started school this fall: wide receiver Kevin Elliott and linebacker Alvis Graham from Colonial High; offensive lineman Carter Franklin from Dr. Phillips High, tight end Max Purcell from Edgewater High, and linebacker Alphonso Walker III, from nearby Eustis.

FAMU Alum and Film Producer Will Packer Says No Other HBCU Prepares Students Like FAMU during the Homecoming Convocation

*** Please note: The following is a revised press release. Total donation amounts have been included.

With Florida A&M University’s 120th anniversary and homecoming well underway, the university celebrated the Homecoming Convocation at the Jake Gaither Gym.

This year’s homecoming theme, “The Rattler Renaissance; A Rebirth of Rattler Pride and Spirit,” encompasses the renewal of the institution in every aspect. Alvin Bryant, president of the FAMU National Alumni Chapter, greetings embodied the theme.

“Although we’ve been through tumultuous times,” said Bryant. “This is a time of togetherness and rebuilding of strength.”

FAMU’s Marching “100” enthused the crowd with “FAMU Spirit,” “Rattler Orange & Green,” and “S.O.S.” while FAMU’s world-renowned gospel choir serenaded the audience with “More Abundantly” and “I Will Bless the Lord.” Cheerleaders kept the crowd roaring while the 2007-2008 Royal Court was introduced and past Miss FAMUs of the 30s and 40s were recognized. Even former FAMU presidents Fred Gainous and Fredrick Humphries were in attendance.

FAMU President James H. Ammons described the keynote speaker, William Packer, film producer and FAMU graduate, as “an outstanding and gifted Rattler.”

“Never has there been a more important time, and never have we had to be more responsible for being African-American,” Packer said. “We’re about to inherit the world. No one prepares our young people for the world like HBCU’s and no HBCU prepares our young people like Florida A&M University.”

Packer ended his speech by explaining the importance of giving back to the institution he cherishes, and by giving Ammons a check for $10,000. As it turned out, this was the first in a series of eight checks to be presented to President Ammons.

Col. Ronald Joe, interim vice president for university relations, reintroduced Ammons for an announcement regarding a new fundraising effort.

In the midst of the Marching “100” playing the Tom Joyner Morning Show’s theme song and a swarm of orange and green balloons falling the gym ceiling onto a plethora of prestigious guests, Ammons said, “I am proud to announce the official launch of the fundraising campaign for Florida A&M University,” he said. “We have been selected to as the Tom Joyner School of the Month for January 2008, which is the 10th anniversary of the School of the Month effort. Today, we kickoff this campaign with efforts donations made by FAMU alumni and supporters.”

To date, the following has been received for the Tom Joyner School of the Month Campaign.

- Student Government Association: $500
- Executive Office Furniture: $5,000
- Diamondback Pharmacy Council: $30,000
- Florida Region of the National Alumni Association: $62, 908
- Washington D.C. Chapter of the National Alumni Association: $64,500
- National Alumni Association: $158,000
- FAMU Industry Cluster: Alcoa, $65,000; Boeing, $75,000; Duke Energy, $10,000; Eli Lily,
$23,000; and Lockheed Martin, $20,000 (totaling $193, 026.95)
- FAMU Foundation and National Alumni Association fundraising receptions: $168, 980.15

Ammons thanked each of the contributors and encouraged the audience of Rattlers past and present to continue the effort to raise dollars for the campaign. Ammons ended the convocation with the famous FAMU mantra, the Rattler Charge.

RW News: FAMU College of Law Opens its Doors with a Tailgate Party

Before Florida A&M University and Bethune-Cookman University take to the football field this year during the Walt Disney® World Florida Classic in Orlando, the FAMU College of Law will open its doors to the community for a pre-game showcasing of the law school and a family-friendly tailgating event.

The first FAMU College of Law Open House and Tailgate Party will kickoff at 9 a.m. on Saturday, November 17, 2007 on the College of Law campus located at 201 Beggs Avenue in downtown Orlando. The event will begin with an open house presented by the law school’s admissions office, where potential law students and current college students with an interest in attending law school will receive an overview of the admission’s process and financial aid information. The open house will also include a law student panel with FAMU law students discussing their experiences and soliciting questions from event attendees. Tours of the law school will be available following the panel.

The tailgate portion of the event will begin promptly at 11 a.m. at the student lounge on the south end of the campus. The tailgate will be catered by Sonny’s Barbeque, and will feature music mixed by Orlando’s Power 95.3 radio personalities on-site for a remote broadcast. Open house and tailgating attendees can enter a drawing to win several prizes including the grand prize of two complimentary tickets to the Florida Classic football game. The FAMU College of Law, the Student Bar Association and the Gwendolyn Cherry Chapter of Phi Alpha Delta law fraternity will sponsor the tailgate party. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited on the law school campus.

There is no cost to attend either event. The law school is conveniently located two-blocks from the Central Boulevard and Church Street parking garages. Both garages are used for Citrus Bowl Stadium Shuttle parking. To pre-register for the open house or get more information about the event, contact the FAMU College of Law’s Admissions Office at (407) 254-3286.

RW News: FAMU President James H. Ammons will Host the President’s Forum

Florida A&M University President James H. Ammons will host the President’s Forum on Tuesday, November 27, for faculty, staff and students in Lee Hall. The scheduled forums are the following:

Faculty forum- 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
Staff forum- 2 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.
Management forum- 3 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Students forum- 4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

For more information, call (850) 599-3413.

FAMU Welcomes Gordon Parks’ Crossroads Exhibit

Florida A&M University’s School of Journalism and Graphic Communication will host the Gordon Parks “Crossroads” exhibit beginning Tuesday, November 27 through January 15, 2008 in the FAMU Black Archives. FAMU will be the second of six colleges and universities to host the exhibit.

“It’s very exciting to know that people are going to have the chance to witness such an accomplished photographers work up close as opposed to in books,” said Delisha Peterson, an adjunct graphic communications professor at FAMU.

Individuals will be able to view 45 of Parks’ works, all selected from different areas of his multifaceted career. A career that saw Parks’ served as a composer, a musician, a poet, a photographer a journalist and a director to name a few.

“Crossroads” serves as an opportunity to celebrate the life and a career of a man who undoubtedly was one of the most influential photojournalists of the 20th century.

Parks is mostly remembered for the time he spent as photojournalist for Time magazine and being the co-founder of Essence magazine as well as his activism and desire to help others.

FAMU's School of Nursing in Compliance with the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc.

Florida A&M University’s School of Nursing received notification from the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) that the School of Nursing was in compliance with all accreditation standards and criteria regarding a recent complaint made by a student.

This fall, a student submitted a complaint against the FAMU School of Nursing regarding its nursing programs. Among the allegations were the department’s academic policy, discriminatory practices and comprehensive exam.

According to Dr. Sharon J. Tanner, executive director of NLNAC, NLNAC must review each complaint it receives in accordance with its policies as required by the U.S. Department of Education Regulations related to student concerns.

“The materials submitted were carefully reviewed,” said Tanner. “Based on the complainants’ concerns, it appears that you [FAMU’s School of Nursing] are in compliance with NLNAC Standards and Criteria.”

“I was confident that the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission would find our program in compliance with all accreditation standards and criteria,” said Mary Graham, dean of FAMU’s School of Nursing. “I will continue to give 100 percent in my role as dean. The faculty and I believe in excellence and the success of our students.”

The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as the national accrediting body for all types of nursing education programs.

RW News: Adding to the Beauty…

I'm sure we can all agree that the campus of Florida A&M University is already a beautiful site. Now students, faculty, staff and administration are enjoying a different type of beauty--the kind that moves.

The StarMetro Venom Express I and II student shuttles now feature a new design with the FAMU logo and Rattler. Charles Collins, graphic designer for university relations, is responsible for creating the design.

Ranada Arnold, a 19-year-old pharmacy student from Jacksonville, said that the new design has helped to make the bus more welcoming.

“We have been working with FAMU Chief of Police Calvin Ross and his staff on the bus design for over a year,” said Ronald Garrison, executive director of StarMetro. “We are all excited to get these buses in service.”

FAMU Chief Ross said the new design is intended to bring a strong sense of Rattler pride to those in view of the shuttles, both on and off campus.

“There were many designs that were considered,” Ross said. “The final design was the most popular design that was approved for the StarMetro bus.”

By RattlerWIRE contributing student, Toneka Pinkney

RW News: Activist Kemba Smith and Journalist Reginald Stuart Speak at FAMU’s Journalism Colloquium

The Florida A&M University School of Journalism and Graphic Communication (SJGC) has announced that Kemba Smith will be the featured speaker at its Journalism Colloquium Thursday, November 8, at 11a.m., in Lee Hall Auditorium. The general public is invited to attend.

Smith will tell her story of being an impressionable student at Hampton University, Hampton, Va., falling into the wrong crowd and becoming involved with a young man who turned out to be a drug dealer.

She found herself in the middle of her boyfriend’s $4 million crack cocaine ring and a life of physical, mental and emotional abuse.

Her unwitting participation in the crack cocaine world led to being sentenced to 24.5 years and serving 6.5 years in federal prison. Smith regained her freedom in December 2000 when former President Bill Clinton pardoned her.

Joining Smith at the colloquium will be Reginald Stuart, a veteran journalist whose article about Smith appeared in Emerge magazine. Stuart’s article sparked a groundswell of attention and support that helped lead to her presidential pardon.

“We are pleased to have Smith and Stuart on our campus,” said Jim Hawkins, dean of the SJGC. “Her story is an inspirational one that our students will appreciate. This case also reflects the importance of the media in helping to right an egregious wrong.”

RW News: Don “D.C.” Curry to host AARP Alumni Gala

On behalf of the Florida Classic Consortium, Florida A&M University President James H. Ammons and Bethune-Cookman President Trudie Kibbe Reed announced that comedian/actor Don “D.C.” Curry will serve as the host and master of ceremonies for the AARP Alumni Gala during the Walt Disney® World Florida Classic presented by State Farm weekend.

Widely known as the star of numerous stand-up comedy tours, Curry has played huge theaters at home and abroad and headlined special engagements at the nation’s hottest comedy clubs. From co-starring in major studio motion pictures or taking the duties of leading man in an independent feature film to touring the country as the lead in a hit stage play or serving as the front man of his own R&B and Blues band, Curry stands apart as a multi-talented performer.

Featured in several major motion pictures such as Next Friday and Friday After Next, Curry was one of the first comedians to be named BET Comic of the Year, a distinction which gave him an opportunity to host a full season of the hit-series ComicView.

Curry will be joined with legendary R&B group Midnight Star as the talent for the gala. Curry will host the Alumni Gala program and perform a 30 to 45 minute act during dinner, while Midnight Star will provide the entertainment at the conclusion of the program.

The AARP Alumni Gala is scheduled for Friday, November 16, 2007, at 6 p.m. at the Rosen Center Hotel in Orlando, Florida. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased at Florida Citrus Sports by calling (407) 423-2476 ext. 165 or by visiting www.ticketmaster.com. For table purchases or for more information on the AARP Alumni Gala or the Walt Disney World® Florida Classic presented by State Farm, log on to www.floridaclassic.org.

RW News: FAMU Media Sales Institute has been Renewed for an Additional Year

The National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation (NABEF), the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters (NABOB), and Personal Selling Principles (PSP), announced that they will renew the Media Sales Institute at Florida A&M University (FAMU) for an additional year. NABEF and NABOB will provide funding for the initiative.

The NABEF/NABOB Media Sales Institute at FAMU is an intense ten-day training program for college seniors who are interested in careers in media sales. The program was a joint vision of the late Professor Ernie Fears, Sr. at Howard University and Jeffrey P. Myers, principal of Personal Selling Principles. The master lecture held at Florida A&M is named after Ernie Fears, Sr.

“We are pleased to continue the Media Sales Institute at Florida A&M University,” said NAB President and CEO David K. Rehr. “This highly successful ten-day program offers students of diverse backgrounds excellent training for entry-level careers in media sales. To date, 85 percent of these graduates have been hired into media sales jobs.”

“We continue to be excited about hosting the Media Sales Institute in the School of Journalism and Graphic Communication at Florida A&M University,” said Jim Hawkins, dean, School of Journalism and Graphic Communication. “Already more than 40 graduates of the program have found positions in this rewarding field. The success of these graduates validates the effectiveness of the program and its importance to the media industry.”

RW News: FAMU Faculty to Serve on Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications

Gale A. Workman, professor in the Florida A&M University’s School of Journalism and Graphic Communication, has been appointed to the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications, (ACEJMC).

Workman will represent the Association of Women in Communications (AWC) on the Council. AWC is one of 19 member-organizations that constitute the Council. The Council is responsible for the evaluation of professional journalism and mass communications programs in colleges and universities.

Currently, there are 110 professionally accredited programs in the United States. FAMU’s Division of Journalism is professionally accredited.

“I never imagined 20 years ago, when I wrote my doctoral dissertation on the history of the Accrediting Council, that I would become a member of this powerful organization,” Workman said. “My predecessor, Jo-Ann Huff Albers, is a tough act to follow. She has been AWC’s representative on the Council for 27 years.”

Jo-Ann Huff Albers will retire from the Council in May. She was director of journalism and broadcasting at Western Kentucky University and remains an active member of AWC.

Workman is a former AWC national board member and the faculty adviser to the Tallahassee Student Chapter of AWC. She has been named AWC Outstanding Faculty Adviser five times.

Workman will be the second faculty member to serve on the ACEJMC. Bob Ruggles, the former dean, also served on the council.

RW News: FAMU Alum Will Packer Says No Other HBCU Prepares Students Like FAMU

With Florida A&M University’s 120th anniversary and homecoming well underway, the university celebrated the Homecoming Convocation at the Jake Gaither Gym.

This year’s homecoming theme, “The Rattler Renaissance; A Rebirth of Rattler Pride and Spirit,” encompasses the renewal of the institution in every aspect. Alvin Bryant, president of the FAMU National Alumni Chapter, greetings embodied the theme.

“Although we’ve been through tumultuous times,” said Bryant. “This is a time of togetherness and rebuilding of strength.”

FAMU’s Marching “100” enthused the crowd with “FAMU Spirit,” “Rattler Orange & Green,” and “S.O.S.” while FAMU’s world-renowned gospel choir serenaded the audience with “More Abundantly” and “I Will Bless the Lord.” Cheerleaders kept the crowd roaring while the 2007-2008 Royal Court was introduced and past Miss FAMUs of the 30s and 40s were recognized. Even former FAMU presidents Fred Gainous and Fredrick Humphries were in attendance.

FAMU President James H. Ammons described the keynote speaker, William Packer, film producer and FAMU graduate, as “an outstanding and gifted Rattler.”

“Never has there been a more important time, and never have we had to be more responsible for being African-American,” Packer said. “We’re about to inherit the world. No one prepares our young people for the world like HBCU’s and no HBCU prepares our young people like Florida A&M University.”

Packer ended his speech by explaining the importance of giving back to the institution he cherishes, and by giving Ammons a check for $10,000. As it turned out, this was the first in a series of eight checks to be presented to President Ammons.

Col. Ronald Joe, interim vice president for university relations, reintroduced Ammons for an announcement regarding a new fundraising effort.

In the midst of the Marching “100” playing the Tom Joyner Morning Show’s theme song and a swarm of orange and green balloons falling the gym ceiling onto a plethora of prestigious guests, Ammons said, “I am proud to announce the official launch of the fundraising campaign for Florida A&M University,” he said. “We have been selected to as the Tom Joyner School of the Month for January 2008, which is the 10th anniversary of the School of the Month effort. Today, we kickoff this campaign with efforts donations made by FAMU alumni and supporters.”

A total of $682,919 was donated by FAMU’s Student Government Association, the National Diamondback Pharmacy Council, the Florida and North East regions of the National Alumni Association, the FAMU Industry Cluster and other supporters.

Ammons thanked each of the contributors and encouraged the audience of Rattlers past and present to continue the effort to raise dollars for the campaign. Ammons ended the convocation with the famous FAMU mantra, the Rattler Charge.

American Bar Association Concludes Site Visit at FAMU College of Law

A seven-member team of legal and education experts concluded their visit at Florida A&M University, College’s of Law on Wednesday, October 31, as part of an accreditation site evaluation by the American Bar Association (ABA).

During the four-day visit, the ABA Site Evaluation team met with students, faculty, staff and administrators from the law school, as well as law school alumni and community supporters. In addition, the team met with University officials, including the president, provost, legal counsel and chief financial officer. The team reviewed the law school’s programs and its progress toward compliance with each of the ABA’s Standards for Approval of Law Schools.

The Site Evaluation team was complimentary of the progress made by the law school.

“We are committed to ensuring that the FAMU College of Law becomes fully accredited,” said FAMU President James H. Ammons. “We must ensure that the College of Law continues its mission of producing excellent legal professionals for the state of Florida and the nation.”

The ABA evaluation was the full site visit while the College of Law is in its provisional status and before it will make its application for full accreditation. The ABA granted the FAMU College of Law provisional approval in August 2004.

According to the ABA, a law school that is provisionally approved is entitled to all the rights of a fully approved law school. Similarly, graduates are entitled to the same recognition afforded graduates of fully approved schools.

The team will compile a report to be submitted to the Accreditation Committee and Council that will outline other issues for the school to take under consideration as it pursues full accreditation status. The report will be shared with the University and the law school in 2008.

RW News: FAMU Social Work Department and Tallahassee Urban League Host Town Hall Meeting on Gangs

Florida A&M University’s Master of Social Work Department and the Tallahassee Urban League will host a town hall meeting to inform the community about gangs in the Tallahassee Community scheduled for Thursday, November 15, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Jack L. McLean, Jr. Community Center located on 700 Paul Russell Road.

Guests include Judge Janet Ferris, State of Florida Circuit Court, 2nd Judicial Circuit; FAMU Assistant Chief of Police Lockley; Elijah Stackhouse, gang specialist for Tallahassee Community College; Officer Gary Jordan, gang specialist for Leon County’s Sheriff Department; and Officer Derrick Friend, gang specialist for the City of Tallahassee Police Department

According to the National Youth Gang, approximately 1 in 4 law enforcement agencies with a gang problem operated a gang unit in 2004, including 51 percent of larger cities. In 2004, 31 percent of law enforcement agencies with a gang problem that did not operate a gang unit reported that one or more officers were assigned to handle gang problems exclusively.

“Recent data indicates there has been an alarming increase in gang activity in Florida in general, and in particularly Tallahassee,” said Merlin R. Langley, associate professor in the FAMU Department of Social Work. “The Department of Social Work in partnership with the Urban League is hosting a town hall meeting to increase citizens awareness of gang violence in North Florida.”

This event is free and refreshments will be provided. The general public is invited to attend. For more information, contact Merlin R. Langley at (850) 599-3456.

RW News: FAMU Alum and Civil Rights Trailblazer Jesse J. McCrary Jr. Succumbs

Florida A&M University alumnus and civil rights trailblazer Jesse J. McCrary, Jr. died of lung cancer Monday, October 29.

The funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, November 3, at 9 a.m. at New Birth Baptist Church, 2300 NW 135th Street, Miami.

A 1960 graduate of FAMU, McCrary received a degree in political science. When he studied law at the FAMU College of Law, many doors were still closed to black attorneys. McCrary, who helped organize the Tallahassee sit-ins as an undergraduate at FAMU, went on to open many of those doors. Among his accomplishments were becoming the first African American Assistant Attorney General for the State of Florida and the first African American member of the Florida cabinet since Reconstruction.

In addition to his wife, Jesse McCrary is survived by daughters Bonnye Fields of Atlanta, and Jessica McCrary and Pamela Walton of Miami, and sisters Celestine Woodson and Susan McCrary of Houston, and Alyce Major of St. Petersburg.

RW News: FAMU’s Research Center Awarded $260,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture

A research center in the College of Engineering Sciences, Technology and Agriculture, (CESTA), at Florida A&M University has been awarded a $260,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Research Initiative (USDA NRI) Grant Program.

The grant is for the FAMU Center for Water and Air Quality.

“This was perfect timing for the announcement to come as we are focusing on the engagement in scientific study by faculty and students in this college,” said Dr. Sunil Pancholy, associate dean for the Division of Research Programs (CESTA). “Currently, we are facing critical issues related to water and air quality that need to be addressed. The grant from NRI is significant and will provide FAMU with the resources and opportunity to help find solutions for these challenges.”

The grant award is among several accolades in science at FAMU, an 1890 land-grant institution. Recently, CESTA unveiled “Majesty,” the first muscadine grape variety; an innovative weevil identification tool; and a new pesticide bacteria strain.

For more information, contact Hsieh at (850) 599-3065 or via email at yuch.hsieh@famu.edu or Sunil Pancholy, associate dean for the Division of Research, FAMU-CESTA at (850) 599-3594 or email: s.pancholy@famu.edu.