Submitted by Dorsey Felton
MIAMI GARDENS, FL — Florida Memorial University is entering a new era in intercollegiate athletics, one defined by leadership, vision, and a renewed commitment to its student-athletes and community.
With the appointment of Director of Athletics Chandra Dorsey-Felton, the first female athletic director in university history, FMU has begun a comprehensive reset focused on building a culture of excellence, integrity, and opportunity across all programs.
That vision took a major step forward Thursday morning at the FMU Wellness Center, as the university introduced Anthony Q. Anderson as its new head men’s basketball coach.
For FMU, this moment represents more than a coaching hire. It reflects a broader commitment to becoming a model HBCU athletic program rooted in winning, mentorship, and community impact.
“Today is not just about introducing a coach. It is about continuing to move our department forward,” said Dorsey-Felton. “We are building something intentional and disciplined that puts our student-athletes in position to succeed in every area of their lives.”
With more than 25 years of collegiate athletic experience, Dorsey-Felton brings a leadership style centered on structure, accountability, and student development. Her vision includes stronger academic support, a culture of discipline and integrity, and meaningful community engagement.
“Our responsibility is bigger than sport,” she added. “We are here to develop leaders, create opportunities, and impact lives both on and off the court.”
The hiring of Coach Anderson reflects that vision.
“Coach Anderson is not just a coach. He is a leader who understands how to build a program the right way,” said Dorsey-Felton. “He represents everything we are working toward as a department.”
Anderson made his expectations clear from the start.
“We are going to put this program back on the map,” he said. “We are going to win, and we are going to do it the right way. Academics come first, and accountability is non-negotiable.”
His approach aligns with FMU’s commitment to developing student-athletes into successful professionals, leaders, and contributors to society.
At the center of FMU’s vision is its identity as Miami Gardens’ hometown HBCU.
“We are the hometown HBCU,” said FMU President William McCormick. “This community has supported us for decades, and now it is our responsibility to continue to show up for them.”
Under Dorsey-Felton’s leadership, FMU Athletics is strengthening its role in the community by providing mentorship and leadership opportunities for local youth, creating pathways for student-athlete success, and serving as a source of pride and engagement for families in Miami Gardens.
FMU’s vision also extends beyond campus. Athletic events will serve as a catalyst for economic and community engagement by increasing attendance and visibility, creating opportunities for local vendors and businesses, and strengthening the connection between the university and the surrounding community.
At the same time, the department is focused on enhancing the student-athlete experience by ensuring safer and more structured support systems, academic accountability, and clear pathways to graduation and career success.
This is not a rebuild. This is a reset with purpose.
From leadership to coaching to community engagement, Florida Memorial University is positioning itself as a program on the rise, one that honors its legacy while building a future defined by excellence.
“This is just the beginning,” said Dorsey-Felton. “We are committed to doing this the right way, and we are excited about where we are going.”
