Florida A&M University celebrated its annual Under 40 Gala Awards, formerly known as FAMU 40 Under 40, in the Jake Gaither Gymnasium. This marked the university’s fourth cohort being inducted.
For many, this night wasn’t just about fancy awards. It was a night full of emotion and gratitude, as this award was proof of their hard work on the hill, which led them to the level of success they have achieved today.
“I am who I am because of FAMU,” said honoree Courtney D. Thrower, Ph.D. “Being honored as a member of the class of 2026, under 40, is a full-circle moment for me.”
The program was officially founded in May 2023 and is organized by Florida A&M’s Office of Communications in conjunction with the Office of University Advancement. Its purpose is to create a pipeline between successful alumni and institutional fundraising.
“FAMU Under 40 is a celebration recognizing our young alumni who have carried the institution’s model of excellence, with caring into their professional philanthropic civic engagement,” stated Alonda Thomas, Ph.D., Vice President, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Florida A&M University.
Alumni must meet the following criteria to be eligible: they must have earned a FAMU degree before 2021, and candidates cannot be older than 40 years of age as of October 1 of the year of the award. They must have donated at least $600 to the institution within the last 5 years; if selected, they must be available to pay a $650 induction fee and attend the official awards ceremony.
All funds raised through the program go directly to the institution. These funds are distributed based on need and essential institutional programs.
“It takes effort and financial support for us to provide scholarships,” said Brandi Tatum- Fedrick, Ed.D., Vice President of University Advancement at Florida A&M University.
“It shows not only our students, but our alums across the world what it looks like when young people give, and how we can highlight and celebrate the great work they’re doing,” she added.
Congratulations to the class of 2026 honorees-Stephanie Andrews, Greg Bolger, Kevicia Brown, Ashleigh Cooper, Dominique Crawford, Chevone Davis-Raglan, Quiana Downie, Brion Eason, Westly Francois, Booker Gainor, IV, Shayla George, Nelson German, Andrew Grant, Zakiya Hardemon, Vanessa Hayward, Louis Jean-Baptist, Flavia Kanyago, Wayne King, Shayla Knighton-Black, Chris Laboo, Faith Lowe, Luqman McNeil, Brandon Morton, Antonio Murphy, Brett Murphy, Shaqueria Myrick, Annamarie Ngala-Bey, Dex Rho, Terrence Roberts, Cary Robinson, Padric Scott, John Taylor, Jr., Alyse Taylor-Anyikire, Courtney Thrower, Stephanie Toliver, Terry Waters, Altrichia Wilcox, Candra Williams, Chandeidre Williams and Darrin Williams. Their recognition reflects the diverse professional paths and achievements of FAMU alumni and community members across the board.
