FAMU Sports Hall of Fame to Mark 50th Anniversary with Special Induction Ceremony

The Florida A&M University Sports Hall of Fame is gearing up for a momentous occasion as it celebrates its 50th anniversary with a special induction ceremony set for September 18, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Lawson Center. This significant event will not only welcome seven new inductees but also commemorate the enduring legacy of FAMU Athletics throughout the past five decades.

The new class of inductees includes notable figures such as Judith Kibii (Track & Field/Cross Country), Sean Gilliam (Baseball), Leroy Long (Track & Field), William Evers (Football), Tyrone McGriff Jr. (Football), Brandi Tatum-Fedrick (Coach), and attorney Benjamin Crump (Supporter). Additionally, two individuals will be recognized with the Hansel E. Tookes, Sr. Trailblazer Award: Maurice Allen for his achievements in long-drive golf and Dr. Chato Waters Hendrix for her contributions as a cheerleader and choreographer for the Atlanta Falcons.

The weekend will kick off with a golf tournament on Friday, September 18, designed as a fundraiser to support the Hall of Fame's annual contributions to FAMU Athletics, with more details to be announced in mid-June. The evening's enshrinement ceremony will be hosted by FAMU Sports Hall of Famer Pam Oliver, featuring presentations from the commissioners of the three conferences FAMU has been a part of: Anthony Holloman (SIAC), Sonja Stills (MEAC), and Dr. Charles McClelland (SWAC).

Many legendary Rattlers are expected to return for this historic celebration, including MLB Hall of Famer Andre Dawson, All-Star Marquis Grissom, NFL Super Bowl champion Henry Lawrence, and several others who have left a mark in their respective sports. The enshrinement ceremony will be preceded by a social hour starting at 6:00 p.m., with tickets priced at $100, available for purchase beginning July 1, 2026.

The event will culminate in a special recognition of the 2026 inductees during the pre-game ceremony of the FAMU vs. Tennessee State football game on September 19 at 6:00 p.m., celebrating the remarkable history and achievements of FAMU Athletics.