By Stephanie Strong
The 100 graduates of the Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Law’s 2022/2023 class listened attentively as keynote hooding speaker Judge Faye Allen, Ninth Judicial Circuit, called them to greatness on Saturday, May 13, 2023.
Judge Allen reminded the graduates that great people attended the College of Law when it was founded in 1949. There were great people who led the charge to get the law school reestablished years after it was closed in Tallahassee, Florida and moved to Orlando, Florida.
“The history of this great institution puts you in a position to be the greatest lawyers of all times,” said Judge Allen, who received her undergraduate degree from FAMU. “Greatness also comes from dedication and hard work. You are able to attend this institution because of the great men and women who fought for legislation to reestablish this school that you are graduating from today.”
FAMU President Larry Robinson, Ph.D., reminded the graduates to always give back to their communities. “As you move from your hooding ceremony, remember to keep the FAMU spirit of love and charity in your hearts,” said President Robinson.
Student speaker Amanda Hunter from Voorhees, New Jersey, like many graduates, has already lined up employment. After passing the New York Bar Exam, she plans to work as an assistant district attorney with the Bronx District Attorney’s Office in New York City. Hunter talked about persistence, perseverance, and possibilities. “Never forget, we are Rattlers for Justice, and it’s our choice to change the world,” said Hunter. “We must galvanize and fight against hate and what is wrong and uplift truth and justice. Never give in to the harshness of this world but lead with kindness to leave this world a better place than we found it.”
The 18th FAMU Law Hooding Ceremony took place at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando. The ceremony recognized graduates of fall 2022, spring 2023 and summer 2023. There are more than 2,600 graduates of the reestablished FAMU College of Law.
