Announcements and Events Archive
Announcements and Events Archive
[First Image From Left to Right: Interim Dean Ira Bates and Deloitte Campus Recruiter Jessica Camilo]
Florida A&M University SBI Hosts Career Partner Showcase with 16 Employers and Nearly 500 Student Participants
Tallahassee, FL – September 29, 2025 – The Florida A&M University (FAMU) School of Business and Industry (SBI) successfully hosted its Special Career Partner Showcase on September 25, 2025 , welcoming 15 distinguished career partners and drawing participation from nearly 500 Student.
The showcase, held in the SBI Courtyard, served as a premier engagement opportunity connecting top employers with FAMU’s talented SBI students. Employers represented a wide range of industries, offering internships, full-time opportunities, and valuable insight into career pathways. Participating organizations included:
AbbVie, Aon, Bloomberg LP, Cintas Corporation, Crowe LLP, DaVita, Deloitte, Fidelity Investments, Fifth Third Bank, Lockheed Martin, Prudential Financial, Raymond James, Shell USA, Trinity Logistics, and The Vanguard Group, Inc.
“This event highlights the strength of our partnerships and the commitment of our students to preparing for their futures,” said Dr. Iris Young-Clark, Director of the SBI Office of Career Development Services. “We are proud to provide a space where meaningful connections between employers and students can flourish.”
Students had the opportunity to network face-to-face with recruiters, share resumes, and learn about industry trends in a curated, intimate setting designed to maximize engagement. The event also emphasized professional readiness, with students encouraged to arrive in business attire, practice their pitches, and prepare tailored resumes.
With 15 career partners and 490 students in attendance, the showcase reinforced SBI’s reputation as a hub for talent and opportunity within FAMU’s Fall Engagement & Recruitment season.
In partnership with the FAMU Career and Professional Development center (CPDC), this event also served as a precursor to the CPDC's FAMU All Majors Career Expo on October 8, 2025. The October 8th All Major Career Expo is where students from across the University will have the chance to engage with an even broader range of employers and career opportunities.
[First Image From Left to Right: Instructor Johnny McCaskill, Assistant Professor Ava Holt, Interim Dean Ira Bates, Professor Angela Tidwell, Professor Shawnta Friday-Stroud]
[From left to right: Lovely Martin, Lauren Mickens, Trenton Swagger, Kari Johnson,
Devin Hall, Jordan Shoats, Anthony Blount, Darla Moore, and Daniyah Curry. Xavier
Jackson is not pictured.]
FAMU Students Launch Supply Chain State of Mind, the University’s First Supply Chain-Focused Organization
Tallahassee, FL – September 29, 2025 – Florida A&M University sophomore Kari Johnson has turned a vision into reality with the launch of Supply Chain State of Mind (SCSM), the first student-led organization at FAMU dedicated to supply chain and operations management
"From the products we buy to the systems behind them, SCSM is where you’ll see the bigger picture and discover your place in the industry," said Johnson, a Supply Chain Management scholar in the School of Business and Industry.
Though Johnson founded the organization, SCSM is powered by a full executive board of student leaders who bring their own perspectives and strengths to the team. Representing multiple backgrounds and classifications, the board includes positions such as Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Historian, Liaison, and committee chairs focused on outreach, membership, events, and marketing. Faculty advisors Dr. Angela Tidwell and Reshaye Greenlee also provide valuable guidance and support.
The group has outlined an ambitious first-year agenda featuring professional development workshops, campus collaborations, competitive insight and appearances from the top companies, and more to give members a closer look at supply chain in action. SCSM is also laying the groundwork for long-term partnerships with corporations, alumni, and campus departments to connect students with internships, certifications, and career opportunities.
With a mission to equip diverse students through access, education, and collaboration, SCSM is set to become a hub for preparing the next generation of supply chain leaders at FAMU.
Students interested in joining can connect with SCSM on Instagram (@scsm_1887) and LinkedIn (Supply Chain State of Mind).
Contact:
Supply Chain State of Mind (SCSM)
supplychainstateofmind@gmail.com
(803) 724-0871
500 Robert and Trudie Perkins Way, Tallahassee, FL 32307
[From left to right: Chandler Lilly, Aldous Blackwell, Sydney Friley, Zion Hackney, Hudson Taylor, Syrus Chivers, Aliya Crawley, Joseph Stuckey V, Derek Holloman, Candace Harrison, Jinelle Brewster, Adrianna Thomas, Adriana Clanton, Nyla Williams, Noah Morgan, Faculty Adviser and Assistant Professor Inger Daniels-Hollar]
Student Spotlight: Annual Wharton x AltFinance Conference SBI Group
Students proudly represent FAMU at the Annual Wharton x AltFinance Conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at the Wharton School. This year, FAMU’s participation in the program has grown significantly. Our students had the opportunity to connect, learn, and be trained by world-class Wharton professors alongside peers from across the country. AltFinance is dedicated to empowering and mentoring HBCU students by providing guidance, support, and access to the Alternative Investments industry. Florida A&M University is one of the proud 7 HBCUs partnered with AltFinance.
Additional Student Information:
4th Year: Chandler Lilly, Sydney Friley
3rd Year: Aldous Blackwell, Hudson Taylor, Joseph Stuckey V, Derek Holloman, Candace
Harrison, Jinelle Brewster, Adrianna Thomas, Adriana Clanton, Nyla Williams
2nd Year: Zion Hackney, Syrus Chivers, Aliya Crawley, Noah Morgan
Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Inger Daniels-Hollar
In September, Dr. Inger Daniels-Hollar, Assistant Professor of Finance, presented at the AltFinance Conference at the Wharton School in Philadelphia, PA. She shared insights on the transformative impact of the Tracy A. Pruitt Visiting Faculty Fellowship she completed at Wharton in Spring 2025, highlighting how the experience enhanced her teaching, research, and ability to expand opportunities for students at Florida A&M University. She is pictured here alongside Vaneesha Dutra, Ph.D. (Morehouse College) and Renita Miller (The Wharton School).
[From left to right: Ryder Executive Director/Charitable Foundation, Ryder CFO Christina Gallo-Aquino, Dr. Shawnta Friday-Stroud, Ryder Vice President and Controller Jay Anderson (SBI Alumnus)]
Corporate Spotlight: Ryder "Future of Excellence" Grant: $50,000
Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) School of Business & Industry (SBI) has been awarded a $50,000 Ryder “Future of Excellence” Grant from Ryder System, Inc. (NYSE: R), a fully integrated port-to-door logistics and transportation company, and the Ryder Charitable Foundation. The grant funds scholarships, support for SBI programs, and the naming of a Ryder room. Read the Full Article at New.famu.edu >>
[Interim Dean Ira Bates]
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
[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. Read More >>
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. Read More >>
Student Spotlight: 3rd place winner, Malani Scott, Senior Accounting Scholar from
FAMU SBI
The 3rd Annual Bloomberg HBCU Trading Challenge is a 7-week competition amongst 10 HBCUs. The participants execute an investment strategy for $1MM virtual US dollars on the Bloomberg Terminal. This year’s theme is AI, focusing on the impact of artificial intelligence on financial markets. Students will manage a virtual $1 million portfolio in AI-focused stocks, gaining valuable skills and a resume boost as they explore this fast-growing sector. The participants gain hands-on experience and build skills and knowledge for finance jobs, learn from Bloomberg mentors and receive professional development support from Bloomberg recruiters.
From Left to right: Randall Leath, Jr. (SBI Alum) , Christian Stoddart, Melissa Monde, Jazmin Hughes, Turiq Bruce, Dr. Inger Daniels-Hollar (SBI Advisor), Maurice Gilbert (SBI Alum)
Student Spotlight: Christian Stoddart, Melissa Monde, Jazmin Hughes, Turiq Bruce
On April 13, 2024, in Boston, Massachusetts, Jazmine Hughes, Turiq Bruce, Christian Stoddart, and Melissa Monde upset the 3x defending champions NCAT to bring home the win for the #FAMULY at the 4th Annual Wellington Management HBCU Stock Pitch Competition, sponsored by Wellington and Citigroup.
Financial Literacy Week - 2024
SBI will host the 2nd annual Financial Literacy Week, "Building Wealth Through Investing,” from 4/8-4/13 in concert with the Society for Financial Education and Professional Development (SFEPD).
Each year, SFEPD trains a group of SBI students to become Financial Literacy Ambassadors. The ambassadors are peer educators who aim to enhance financial literacy by spreading the principles of good personal financial management to FAMU students and the community. The week schedule this year is reflected in the schedule graphic.
Student Spotlight Follow-up
Recently, Caleb was featured this morning on CBS News Chicago, where he discussed his Grammy Awards experience, aspirations, music, and the impact of the scholarship. You can watch the feature above or view an Instagram event video recap.
FAMU SBI Junior Mr. Caleb Wilkerson. A Chicago native transferring from Indiana University, Caleb is pursuing a major in Business Administration and a minor in Music Industry Studies here at FAMU.
The Recording Academy's Black Music Collective (BMC) and Amazon Music have selected
Caleb as the recipient of the prestigious "Your Future Is Now" scholarship. This scholarship,
designed for students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), provides
a unique opportunity for Caleb to learn and explore all facets of the music industry.
More>>
See the initial annoucement below.
View the SBI Alumni Town Hall Presentation >>
Student Spotlight
The world of finance is a fast-moving and competitive arena where standing out from other players requires a unique combination of strategy, dedication and a deep understanding of the markets. Florida A&M University transfer student Jaeden Patterson, a fourth-year business administration major, recently demonstrated all of these qualities, emerging in first-place in the Bloomberg HBCU Environmental, Social, Governance Trading challenge. More >>
Student Spotlight
The Black Music Collective and Amazon Music have announced the recipients of the 2023 "Your Future Is Now” scholarship program, and Caleb Wilkerson has won a $10,000 scholarship. Caleb Wilkerson is in his third year of matriculation as a candidate for a professional MBA at the School of Business. More >>
Student Spotlight
The Dean's Corner
USPS Direct Effect - Ambassador Program
FAMU is working with the USPS through the Direct Effect Ambassador Program. USPS serves 160 million residences, businesses and Post Office Boxes. With more than 34,000 retail locations, 600,000 employees, and one of the most frequently visited websites in the federal government, the Postal Service delivers 48 percent of the world’s mail and has one of the world’s largest computer networks.
Alumni Spotlight: Sylnovia Holt-Rabb
Alumni Spotlight: Ray Fregia Jr. Wins National Recognition for Community Service and
Industry Accomplishments
(New York, NY, November 8, 2021) – The nomination of Ray Fregia Jr., president and dealer principal at Courtesy Ford Lincoln in Danville, Illinois, for the 2022 TIME Dealer of the Year award was announced today by TIME. More >>
Student Spotlight – Mulbe Dilard
SBI Senior and Captain of the University Golf Team, Mulbe Dillard joins Golf Today to discuss playing in the APGA Tour Event at the Farmers Insurance Open, seeing more players of color getting opportunities at the PGA level and more.
Congratulations to Jonathan Quarles on his new book “MAKING DOLLARS WHILE MAKING CHANGE: The Playbook for Game Changers”.
In his new book, (on-sale January 7, 2021; BMcTalksPress), Quarles journeys through his formative personal and professional experiences, highlighting how they have shaped him as an entrepreneur.
Alumni Spotlight – Eric Gillman
Congratulations to SBI Alum Eric Gillman on his promotion to join the PwC LLP partnership!
“These newly admitted partners represent the next generation of leaders who put people
first—leaders who do the right thing for our staff and clients, for our teams and
for our communities."
Read More >>
Current Annoucements and Events >>