Announcements and Events

Student Spotlight: Gucciany Toussaint

From the Classroom to the Closing Table: A Student’s Transformative Internship Journey

When opportunity knocked at a local real estate networking event, one student didn’t just listen—he followed up. That moment of initiative led to a Spring 2025 internship at Kingdom Keys Home Solutions, a decision that would shape both his professional path and personal growth.

Initially expecting to shadow and handle administrative tasks, he quickly found himself at the heart of operations. From managing client communications to preparing real estate documents, the internship was anything but passive. “I was surprised by how much responsibility I was given,” he shared. “It was hands-on from day one, and I learned a lot more than I anticipated.”

One of his proudest accomplishments? Streamlining the client onboarding process by organizing key documents and improving communication tracking—an achievement that made a real difference for the team. But beyond technical skills, it was the growth in confidence and leadership that left the deepest mark.

A key takeaway came from mentor Mrs. Mason, who stressed the importance of follow-up. “Consistent communication builds trust,” she advised—wisdom the student now carries into every professional interaction. This internship didn’t just confirm his interest in real estate and finance—it helped sharpen his focus. With new skills in time management, attention to detail, and adaptability, he’s now more prepared than ever to take the next step. His message to fellow students is simple: “Go for it.” Because sometimes, the most valuable lessons come not from the classroom, but from stepping into the real world—and showing you’re ready.

Student Spotlight: Jessica Clemons (Psychology), Chamari Forbes (Business Administration), Bianca Holsey (Graphic Design), and Tyjah Tuggle (Facilities Management)

Florida A&M University Secures First Place at the 2025 Philip Payton Society HBCU Real Estate Case Competition
The Philip Payton Society for Minorities in Real Estate at Cornell University proudly celebrates the outstanding victory of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) at the 6th annual HBCU Real Estate Case Competition, held at the Dallas Real Estate Executive Council (REEC) Conference.

Advancing to the Final Four after surpassing ten universities, FAMU emerged as the first-place winners, outcompeting the other finalists—Tuskegee, Jackson State, and North Carolina A&T. This remarkable team of mixed-major students proudly represents Club R.E.A.L., the first real estate club founded by an HBCU in the United States.

A championship-worthy performance was led by Business Administration major and Club R.E.A.L. President, Tyjah Tuggle. Building on her 2023 finals appearance, she spearheaded a powerhouse team—Chamari Forbes, Jessica Clemons, and Bianca Holsey—who arrived with unwavering determination and were relentless in their pursuit of victory.

Their reimagining of the Dallas Morning News building into a mixed-use development, branded as The Dallas Post, showcased innovation, strategy, and real-world viability. The team's presentation was flawless, with each member assuming a role within the development team, reinforcing their expertise and collaboration—ultimately securing them the grand prize.

Special thanks to Coach David Toney and Club R.E.A.L advisor, Valerie Anderson, whose mentorship and guidance helped refine an exceptional presentation. Thank you to the Philip Payton Society and Cornell University along with Ken McIntyre and the Real Estate Executive Council (REEC). In addition to winning the competition, students were able to attend workshops and network with hundreds of REEC members from around the country.

We also extend a heartfelt thank you to the FAMU alumni who showed their unwavering support including Jerrod Delaine, Duane Hale and many others.

Congratulations to the FAMU Rattlers for their remarkable achievement! Florida A&M University’s Rattlers have once again proven their excellence in real estate leadership and innovation. Club R.E.A.L. membership reopens in the Fall. Follow @clubreal_FAMU on Instagram to stay connected and get updates and announcements!

"I am beyond proud of this team for their preparation, commitment, and diligence. They represented FAMU proudly." - Instructor Valerie Anderson, Club R.E.A.L.

“After months of preparation, countless late nights, and real teamwork, we pulled through and gave the presentation of a lifetime. I couldn’t ask for a more resilient and dedicated team. I look forward to seeing each of our careers in real estate flourish! “ - Chamari Forbes, incoming Club R.E.A.L. president

FAMU Real Estate Comp 2025

[From left to right: Christopher Browne (President of the Philip Payton Society, Cornell MPS/RE ’23), Jessica Clemons (FAMU Psychology), Chamari Forbes (FAMU Business Administration), Bianca Holsey (FAMU Graphic Design), Tyjah Tuggle (FAMU Facilities Management), Ali Daye (Founder of the Philip Payton Society, Cornell MPS/RE ’19)]

1887 Strikes - FAMU Day of Giving

Happy #FAMUDayofGiving SBIans! Let’s Strike, Strike and STRIKE AGAIN at 1887strikes.com or share any text to give code in this post with your contact list. More >>

Jason Black, Ph.D. Harold Lundy, Ph.D.

Faculty Spotlight: Jason Black, Ph.D. & Harold Lundy, Ph.D.

Florida A&M University (FAMU) proudly announces that Jason Black, Ph.D., director of the Interdisciplinary Center for Creativity and Innovation; and Harold Lundy, Ph.D., assistant professor of management and accounting, are members of the inaugural 2025 cohort of VentureWell Ecosystem Futures Fellows. This national fellowship recognizes faculty and higher education leaders dedicated to strengthening STEM innovation and entrepreneurship (I&E) ecosystems through the lens of environmental and social sustainability and inclusive innovation. More >>

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