Florida A&M University celebrated its 138th anniversary with Founders Day events to commemorate the institution’s legacy, honor past leaders, and engage students, faculty, and alumni in reflections on its mission.

On Oct. 3, Founder’s Day events included a wreath-laying ceremony at the Eternal Flame and remarks reaffirming FAMU’s role among historically Black colleges and universities. University President Marva Johnson told attendees that the anniversary is a time both to remember “the shoulders of those before us” and look forward to the HBCU’s future, as reported by Florida A&M University News.

“What was created 138 years ago planted a seed of hope that has blossomed into a legacy of opportunity,” Johnson said. “It started humbly, with just 15 students and two professors. Yet even with this modest beginning, there was a bold vision — to cultivate knowledge, dignity, and purpose. From those first steps, FAMU has grown into a powerhouse of education, research, culture, and service. That same vision that carried us forward then must continue to propel us today.”

Alumni leaders also addressed the crowd. The president of the FAMU Alumni Association spoke of the importance of giving back and sustaining FAMU’s networks across the country. Members of the FAMU band performed a tribute medley as part of the program.