Why We Strike Forward
Direct and relatable actions that have been taken towards or pending for FAMU
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Funding and financial support
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Denial of facts related to FAMU being historically underfunded
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Performance based funding allocation
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Statewide higher education policy
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Minority, diversity, inclusion program funding and actions have been target since the passing of a 2023 state law. Florida SB 266 prohibits usage of state or federal funds for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs.
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Overall institutional stability and growth
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FAMU has not been provided equitable access like other state institutions
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Protection of the university’s mission and autonomy (HBCUs are fundamental in the education of minority students yet not championed as such in the current administration)
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Trustee and leadership appointments
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FAMU Board of Trustees
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Board of Governors
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Oversight boards and governance
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University budget approval and targeted inputs
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New academic programs or ending programs
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Strong support for, or appointment of, University President
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Campus expansion and infrastructure
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FSU buildings and expansion is moving closer to FAMU facilities
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FAMU’s initial exclusion (and demand for inclusion) in the FSU -Tallahassee Memorial Hospital merger
The next Florida governor will determine:
Funding
The governor proposes the annual budget for the state, including State University System funding, has line-item veto power authority over FAMU's legislative budget appropriations, and power to restore billions in historic underfunding.
Appointments
In addition to the Governor's cabinet, boards, commissions, judges, and vacant elected offices, 85% of appointments to the FAMU Board of Trustees are made by the governor, or the governor-appointed Board of Governors, which governs the 12 public universities.
Policies
The governor sets policy agendas, issues executive orders, executive budgets, influences legislative proposals, and can veto bills that affect the trajectory of the state of Florida, higher education, and FAMU.
Elections matter.
Elections have consequences.
The 2026 election cycle will reflect critical voting outcomes for national and state elections. Specifically, for FAMU, this election cycle will also determine the next Governor and Lieutenant Governor for the State of Florida—leaders who hold significant influence over the direction, priorities, and funding of the state’s public university system.
Over the course of the current administration, and especially in the past several years, we have seen clearly the scope of authority the Governor holds over public higher education. These decisions have direct and lasting consequences for institutions like Florida A&M University.
It is essential that we identify and support the candidate who demonstrates a clear commitment to protecting and advancing the interests of our university.
As alumni, supporters, and advocates, we have both a responsibility and an opportunity to act—individually and collectively. Our engagement must be intentional, informed, and focused on ensuring that the next Governor understands the value of our institution and is prepared to support its continued growth and success.
Simply put, leadership at this level sets the tone and direction for everything that follows.
As the election approaches, we are committed to advancing a thoughtful evaluation process. This process will seek to understand each candidate’s priorities, positions, and intentions as they relate to public higher education and our university specifically. Just as importantly, it will create a foundation for accountability and ongoing engagement.
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Our goal is to promote transparency, fairness, and responsible stewardship. Every action taken through this effort is intended to strengthen institutional advocacy and secure meaningful support for our university’s future.
In the interest of clarity and transparency, it is important to define what this effort is not:
• This is not a political action committee (PAC).
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• This initiative will not request or manage financial contributions; it is not a fundraising effort.
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• This effort is not affiliated with, nor aligned to, any political party.​
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This movement exists for one purpose:
to ensure that we identify and support the gubernatorial candidate who will best serve and strengthen
Florida A&M University.
The Bottom Line​​
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The Governor plays a direct role in shaping the future of public universities.
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Florida A&M University’s continued growth depends on strong and informed leadership at the state level.
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This process ensures candidates are evaluated fairly and based on documented positions.
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This effort is nonpartisan and focused solely on the university’s long-term interests.
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Alumni engagement strengthens the institution’s voice and influence.
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A unified alumni voice helps ensure the university remains strong and protected.
We've Come Too Far to Sit on the Sidelines
Since 1887, FAMU has proudly stood as a national leader in producing engineers, pharmacists, educators, business people, entrepreneurs and beyond.
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Despite facing systemic underfunding that could have hindered other institutions, we have persevered.
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Our fearless students, professors, staff, alumni, and members of the Tallahassee community have been instrumental in sustaining FAMU's legacy, ensuring its continued success and impact in the community. ​
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The strength of this effort depends on informed and engaged alumni and supporters.
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This is YOUR moment.
This is OUR moment.
We encourage you to:
Ensure you are registered and prepared to vote.
Confirm your voter registration status and encourage your family members to do the same.
Stay informed.
Review candidate positions, follow updates, and remain engaged in the process.
Support the endorsed candidate, if you choose.
This may include:
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Visiting campaign websites
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Making donations directly to the endorsed candidate(s)
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Volunteering your time
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Participating in campaign activities
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Supporting through lawful and independent means
Stay connected.
Provide your contact information to receive updates, announcements, and opportunities to engage and participate in candidate endorsement.