Homecoming festivities underway at FAMU
FAMU photo/Glenn Beil
Special to the Outlook
“The Experience” that is FAMU’s homecoming is already underway.
A drive-in movie kicked off last weekend’s opening activities on Saturday. Moviegoers enjoyed “Love Don’t Cost A Thing” from their vehicles in the parking lot at Bragg Stadium. That was followed by a gospel experience and Coronation Ball on Sunday. The day started with Blessings & Brunch, featuring singer Kelontae Gavin.
Among the highlights of the nine days of festivities will be two days of live broadcasts of Good Morning America from FAMU’s campus. GMA will air live from Bragg Stadium, beginning at 6:45 a.m. Friday.
On Saturday, the show will broadcast from the bronze Rattler in front the Center for Access and Success during the Homecoming Parade.
FAMU President Larry Robinson said GMA coming to town adds to the homecoming experience.
“We have a wonderful tradition of Homecoming here with Rattlers coming from all over,” Robinson said. “To allow the rest of the world to see some of the festivities, experience the rich culture, and hear about the accomplishments of our graduates and students at FAMU, it doesn’t get any better than that.”
Before the GMA show, there was the Quad and the Housing Step Show at Market Day. The Beauty and Health Expo, and Comedy Show, all took center stage during the week.
This Thursday’s activities will take a corporate turn with the Industry Cluster, which is expected to attract representatives from more than 50 companies. Industry Cluster corporate partners have donated more than $8 million. At the same time Thursday, there will be a plaque dedication ceremony at the Eternal Flame to honor donors who have contributed gifts of at least $100,000.
The Homecoming Pep Rally is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday at Bragg Stadium. Also, on Friday, Alumna Tiffany Greene will be the guest speaker for the Homecoming Convocation at Lawson Center.
Thursday and Friday will mark the culmination of a series of activities hosted by Nike, whose FAMU-themed shoe will be released on sale Saturday.
FAMFEST returns for a second year. A highlight of the activities will be the ribbon-cutting for the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation Plaza at 1:15 p.m.
The Marching “100” Band hosts the Rattler Strike Band Festival 2 p.m. at Gaither Gymnasium. Friday’s festivities reach a climax with the Greek Step Show at 7 p.m. in the Lawson Center.
FAMU Alumna Kim Godwin, president of ABC News, will be the grand marshal for the Homecoming Parade. More than 355 floats, cars and groups have registered for the 8 a.m. event. The Rattlers will play the University of Arkansas – Pine Bluff in the 4 p.m. Later in the evening, the Homecoming Concert will feature the City Girls, Latto and other artists.
“It’s hard to describe the excitement and anticipation for FAMU Homecoming 2022/The Experience. We are looking forward to celebrating with all of the FAMUly. Tallahassee looks great in orange and green,” said Carmen Cummings, assistant vice president for University Engagement/Alumni Affairs and co-chair with Assistant Dean of Students/Student Activities Director Andre Green of the Homecoming Committee.
FAMU Homecoming runs through Sunday. For the schedule of events, visit http://homecomingatfamu.com/.
