Submitted by Tyra Robinson
MIAMI GARDENS, FL — Florida Memorial University (FMU), South Florida’s only Historically Black College or University (HBCU), is proud to announce it has received an Equipment
Grant from the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, the PGA TOUR’s premier South Florida event. This transformative gift will support the launch of FMU’s collegiate Golf Club, officially set to debut in Spring 2026. The funding will equip student-athletes with the tools to explore the sport, sharpen their skills, and build a legacy of excellence on the greens.
The grant marks a pivotal first step in FMU’s vision to embed golf into campus life—not only as a sport but as a pathway for personal development and enrichment.
“We’re thrilled to support FMU and its mission to provide students exposure to the game,” said Todd Fleming, Executive Director of the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches. “At the heart of the Cognizant Classic’s mission is a commitment to the betterment of our community, so the opportunity to enrich the lives of young people through the game we love is a privilege.”
FMU plans to ultimately join the Sun Conference in intercollegiate competition, reflecting a broader commitment to diversifying athletics and introducing non-traditional sports to students of color.
“This grant is more than just golf clubs and gear—it’s a doorway to access, exposure, and equity,” said Interim President William C. McCormick, Jr., FMU’s first alumnus to serve as president and an avid golfer. “Golf is a game of discipline, integrity, strategy, and connection. Our students deserve every opportunity to discover and benefit from that experience. I’ve seen firsthand how this sport opens doors in business, builds character, and strengthens mental health. We are excited to bring that to FMU.”
Historically perceived as an elite sport, golf has remained largely inaccessible to minority communities due to systemic barriers. FMU’s initiative—fueled by the Cognizant Classic’s commitment to grow the game—seeks to challenge that narrative. This is more than just launching a club; it’s igniting a movement.
Through this program, FMU aims to promote:
*Professional Development: Golf encourages networking and leadership, positioning students for success beyond the classroom.
*Mental and Physical Wellness: The game cultivates patience, focus, and fitness, with benefits extending beyond competition.
*Diversity in the Game: FMU hopes to inspire a new generation of Black golfers, coaches, and industry leaders.
Initially formed as a student organization, the FMU Golf Club will offer training, mentorship, and local course play beginning in 2026. By 2027, the university intends to field a competitive team across intercollegiate tournaments in the Sun Conference—building a pipeline of student-athletes who embody excellence and equity.
“Florida Memorial University continues to rise,” McCormick added. “This new golf program is another example of how we’re writing our future—boldly, purposefully, and inclusively.”
For more information or to support the FMU Golf Club initiative, contact: Tyra Robinson in the Office of Public Affairs at Florida Memorial University.
