FAMU: Today, Tomorrow and Forever

Gallop Franklin II
| Your turn

Perched atop one of Tallahassee’s seven hills is a vibrant community where people come together to gain knowledge, develop skills, and prepare for success in life.

This place is “The Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University,” a showcase for student success, innovative research, and academic excellence.

FAMUly First

As a proud member of the “FAMUly” and a member of the Florida House of Representatives, I stand behind my alma mater.

FAMU was designated as an agricultural university in 1890 and was part of the nation’s commitment to providing educational opportunities to all Americans.

From the top of the hill to the top of the class

As FAMU transitions to new leadership following the retirement of President Larry Robinson, it is important to recognize where FAMU is today, the hard work and dedication it took to get there, and the progress and challenges it has faced as it has grown.

Under Dr. Robinson’s leadership, FAMU has achieved remarkable achievements, reflected in U.S. News & World Report rankings:

Top 100 public universities in the country (No. 91).
Voted Best Public Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in America for Five Years in a Row.
#3 among all HBCUs, both public and private.

Good luck with your school exams

FAMU has recently come under criticism for the performance of its graduates on licensing exams. There is another perspective that bears consideration in this challenge.

As a pharmacist, I am proud that FAMU is the highest ranked HBCU pharmacy school.

On average, since 2021, FAMU pharmacy graduates lead HBCUs in first-time board exam passing rates. In fact, the 90% passing rate achieved by 2021 graduates placed FAMU No. 1 among Florida pharmacy schools.

Nursing graduates from FAMU passed the National Council Licensure Examination at a rate of 62% over the past four rounds.

FAMU physiotherapy students also achieved a 95% pass rate on the national physiotherapy exam.

The FAMU College of Law adheres to the American Bar Association standard that a minimum of 75% of graduates must pass the bar examination within two years of graduation.

During the upcoming legislative session, I will ensure that the state budget includes a clear statement of the Legislature’s intent to continue FAMU’s vital pharmacy, law, nursing and physical therapy programs.

Economic engine and job creator

These vital programs have an incredible return on investment for taxpayers. FAMU contributes significantly to our regional and state economies. A 2007 study by the Washington Economics Group found that FAMU generated $3.7 billion in annual economic output, which, adjusted for inflation, is now $5.6 billion.

The university also creates thousands of jobs, thus contributing to the economic stability of our community.

Top destination for education

FAMU’s recent national titles in football and golf and the organization’s dominance in several sports highlight the organization’s athletic and academic excellence.

The university attracts top students from across the country and offers a unique higher education experience.

Financial aid ensures that 90% of FAMU students have access to education. However, many students still face unmet financial needs, putting them at risk of dropping out of school.

Addressing this problem is essential to achieving the improvement goals set by the legislature and the state university system.

The metric that really matters

FAMU remains resilient. In the face of adversity, we will stand strong, meet the changing needs of students, and overcome our challenges to protect FAMU as an academic incubator and the school’s flagship programs that develop future leaders.

The value of FAMU is evident in the degrees and opportunities it offers its graduates.

By making higher education accessible, FAMU gives students from all backgrounds the opportunity to grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

Therefore, we can celebrate FAMU’s achievements with great pride, take on the challenges and recommit ourselves to the success of the university, today, tomorrow and forever.

Rep. Gallop Franklin II serves Leon and Gadsden counties in the Florida House of Representatives. He is a pharmacist and assistant professor in the College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health. Franklin is a former student body president at FAMU and has also served on the university’s board of trustees and the board of governors of the State University System.

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