FAMU Class of 1962 gives back to alma mater
By Sharon Saunders and Stephanie Lambert
TALLAHASSEE, FL — Giving back to their alma mater was more than a thought for members of the Florida A&M University (FAMU) Class of 1962. For this class of dedicated Rattlers, reaching back and building bridges for success was their goal. Members of the class recently presented a check of $62,250 to the university toward the establishment of scholarships for students. The alumni group agreed to support the effort after meeting for their 50th anniversary during spring commencement weekend at FAMU.
Booker Daniels, a FAMU retiree and former student vice president of the class, said the initial goal was to have fun during their anniversary weekend and present the university with a nice gift.
“It was wonderful seeing people, many of whom had not seen each other for 50 years,” said Daniels. “Once we made our decision, everyone wanted to ensure the money was going to help the students.
Obtaining the funds needed for the donation did not occur instantly, according to project organizers. A special committee organized to spearhead the effort, sent letters, e-mails and placed phone calls to classmates for more than a year to help make the project a success.
Col. (Ret). LaVert Jones, a senior adviser for the project, said he hopes all alumni will make more efforts to support the university, even in less popular forms, such as estate planning or property donations.
“We wanted to ensure that the kids who come after us and who are financially challenged are able to receive an education and meet many of the successes that our class experienced,” Jones said.
The class hopes to continue working together to provide additional support on a regular basis.
