Gadsden County remembers Dr. Frederick S. Humphries: Florida A&M University president makes a big impact on a small town

Many are mourning the loss of former Florida A&M University President Frederick S. Humphries and though this is a time for those who loved him to grieve, a community that was greatly impacted by his legacy, is using this as a time to reflect.

“I started Florida A&M University the summer after graduating from Shanks High School. The fall semester as a resident of paddyfoote, I applied for and was awarded the presidential scholarship. I still have the signed, personal letter by Dr. Humphries and I recall how surreal it was being in the press box with him and other dignitaries during a home football game. This Quincy girl will always cherish the tall, gentle giant and his years of leadership,” said Pat Hinson, Gadsden County President of the Florida A&M University National Alumni Association.

After Dr. Humphries' death, graduates of Florida A&M University from all over the United States took to their social media platforms to reminisce on their years on “the hill” and to speak on the legacy that Humphries left even after the end of his presidency.

There was a great outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences from so many who got to experience the leadership of Humphries, especially the community of Gadsden County.

Dr. Frederick S. Humphries’ June 10 vigil was attended by friends, students, family, and alumni of Humphries’ college, Florida A&M University. To many Gadsden County residents, Dr. Humphries was one of the reasons they were proud to be known as a Rattler.

“What no one knew, is that for the remainder of my career I would report to him. It was required by him,” said Cathy Robinson, a former forward for the Florida A&M University women’s basketball team. “So, thank you Dr. Humphries, the humblest, yet gentle giant I have ever met.”

Robinson recalls a time where she once wanted to give up on her athletic dreams, but Humphries personally paid her a visit and demanded that she not only return to Florida A&M University but to the basketball team as well.

Robinson made it clear that her return was not just because of her love for the game, but her respect for Humphries.

Before graduating in 1996 Robison would be named Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference player of the year in 1995 and recently had her jersey (number 33) retired in 2019.

“The impact he had on me was excellent. He strove for excellence for the university and instilled that sense of pride in the students that were attending at that time. He instilled a sense of pride when it came to athletics and academics. He was very instrumental in making sure students had internships, especially after graduation and putting the university on the map more than it already was,” remarks Michael Mason, a Florida A&M University alum and active member of the university’s Gadsden County’s alumni association.

Mason also pointed out that in 1997, FAMU was highlighted in Time Magazine as the Princeton Review’s college of the year.

In the highlight, Humphries was praised for his ability to recruit some of the highest achieving students from all over the country.

Celebrity alumni like Will Packer also shared their personal recruitment stories of how Humphries came knocking on their door, sitting in their living rooms and telling them why Florida A&M University was the best choice for them.

Humphries led a full life that impacted lives beyond his service to Florida A&M University.

Bryan Watson, grandson of former Florida A&M University president Dr. Frederick S. Humphries speaks to an audience of students, faculty and family at the June 10 vigil held for Humphries at the university’s eternal flame.

Humphries served as Florida A&M University president between the years of 1985 to 2001 and also served as Tennessee State University’s president between the years of 1974 to 1985.

He was an educator, activist, leader, advocate, father, husband, son, visionary and scholar but to communities like Gadsden County, he was a glimpse of hope to so many who now say that they are proud to be a Rattler.

Ebony Houston - Gadsden County News Service Photos by Ebony Houston

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Gadsden County remembers Dr. Frederick S. Humphries: Florida A&M University president makes a big impact on a small town

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Greenshade AME Church brings health and wellness to the Greenshade-Dogtown community

ONE OF US: Cecelia Madry

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